Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a baking dish.
2. Make the sauce:
   • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
   • Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
   • Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
   • Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth.
   • Simmer until slightly thickened.
   • Stir in salt, pepper, nutmeg, and half the cheese until melted.
3. Assemble:
   • Layer half the potatoes in the dish.
   • Pour over half the sauce.
   • Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.
4. Top with remaining cheese.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Uncover and bake another 20–25 minutes, until golden and potatoes are fork-tender.
7. Rest 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Add caramelized onions or ham for extra flavor
• Swap cream for half-and-half for a lighter version
• For crispier top: broil 2–3 minutes at the end (watch closely!)

If you want, I can adjust this for slow cooker, make-ahead, or extra cheesy versions.