Potatoes Au Gratin – Classy and Frugal Side Dish

Potatoes Au Gratin is one of those dishes that seems very difficult to make, but is really basic and easy.

The ingredients are simple and pretty cheap; potatoes, milk, flour, cheese* and salt & pepper. It can be “fancied” up with the addition of an onion. Buddy likes them made that way and calls them “cheesy potatoes”. If you leave the cheese out you can call it “scalloped potatoes”. Either way, I just call them yummy.

Here is the basic recipe:

Potatoes Au Gratin

6-8 Potatoes
1/3 C Flour
1tsp Salt
Pepper
Milk
Butter
Cheddar Cheese

Optional: 1 Onion

Peel and slice your potatoes (and onion if using). Mix Flour, Salt & Pepper (to taste). In a greased (spray oil, butter etc) casserole dish, place about 1/3 of potatoes (and onion ), sprinkle with 1/3 the flour mixture and some cheese. Repeat with next 2 layers. Gently pour in enough milk to reach the top of the potatoes. Dot with butter. Bake for about 1 1/2 hours. (honestly, the original recipe said 45 min, but mine were still practically raw! I always have to cook these longer than it says. . )

I have pictures, so I’ll edit this post later, but right now I have to start preparing for 10 folks to eat dinner at my house tomorrow!

*Yes, cheese isn’t as dirt cheap as the rest of the ingredients, but most of us have a bit of cheddar hanging around somewhere. If you want to really get your money’s worth, buy sharp cheddar. The stronger flavor means you can use less and still get that “cheese” taste!