Cheesy Garlic Potatoes Gratin – The Ultimate Creamy & Comforting Side Dish

When it comes to side dishes that steal the spotlight, Cheesy Garlic Potatoes Gratin is king. This rich, indulgent dish features tender slices of potato layered with garlicky cream, melting cheese, and baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s a crowd-pleasing comfort food that pairs beautifully with everything from roasted meats to simple salads—and it’s surprisingly easy to make.

Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast, Sunday dinner, or as a weeknight treat, this potatoes au gratin with garlic and cheese is guaranteed to have everyone going back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Ultra-creamy texture with crispy golden edges
✔️ Packed with bold garlic flavor
✔️ Loaded with melty cheese
✔️ Just a few simple ingredients
✔️ Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or everyday meals
✔️ Can be made ahead and reheated beautifully

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make the best cheesy garlic potatoes gratin:

2 lbs (about 4–5 medium) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, thinly sliced (⅛ inch)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1½ cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
1 cup heavy cream
1½ teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
1½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and sharp cheddar)
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes

Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into ⅛-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline for even slices.
Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water while you prep the sauce—this helps remove excess starch and prevents browning.

2. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30–60 seconds).
Stir in the flour and whisk continuously to make a smooth roux.
Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking to eliminate lumps.
Add salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened (about 4–5 minutes).
Stir in 1 cup of Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth.

3. Assemble the Gratin

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Layer half of the potatoes evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Pour half of the garlic cream sauce over the potatoes.
Add a layer of Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of remaining Gruyère.
Repeat with remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.

4. Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

👉 Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for an ultra-crispy cheese crust.

5. Rest and Garnish

Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and makes it easier to slice.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Potatoes Gratin

✅ Use a mandoline for uniform potato slices—they’ll cook evenly and create a stunning layered look.

✅ Don’t skip the soaking step—it helps the cream sauce cling better and reduces gumminess.

✅ Gruyère cheese adds a nutty, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with garlic. If you can’t find it, use sharp cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey Jack.

✅ Let it rest before serving—the sauce will thicken and set beautifully.

Make Ahead & Reheating Instructions

To Make Ahead:

Assemble the gratin up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge, tightly covered.
When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before placing in the oven.

To Reheat:

Cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20–30 minutes, or until warmed through.
You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven preserves the crispy topping better.

What to Serve with Garlic Potatoes Gratin

This creamy, cheesy side dish pairs perfectly with:

Roast chicken or turkey
Grilled steak or pork chops
Braised short ribs
Green beans almondine
Fresh garden salad
Crusty French bread

Variations to Try

🧀 Three-Cheese Gratin – Combine Gruyère, cheddar, and mozzarella for a melty trio.
🥓 Bacon Lovers’ Gratin – Add crispy bacon bits between the layers.
🧄 Extra Garlicky Version – Double the garlic and roast it beforehand for a milder, sweet flavor.
🥬 Spinach or Kale – Layer cooked greens between the potatoes for added nutrition.
🌶️ Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for heat.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Potatoes Gratin is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With layers of tender potatoes, a rich garlicky cream sauce, and golden, bubbling cheese, it’s indulgent, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress at any dinner table.

Make it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your rotation—whether for holidays, special occasions, or just because it’s Tuesday and you deserve something amazing.