Name: Bacon Leek Au Gratin Potatoes
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 lbs russet potatoes, thinly sliced; 4 strips bacon, chopped; 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced; 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup whole milk; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Hey y’all! If you’re searching for the ultimate comforting side dish that brings together creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and sweet, tender leeks all enveloped in a cheesy, golden crust, these Bacon Leek Au Gratin Potatoes are your answer. This dish is pure comfort food heaven, perfect for holidays, family gatherings, Sunday dinners, or when you just need something a little extra special. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This

Creamy layers of thinly sliced potatoes bake up melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Crispy bacon melds with buttery leeks for a flavor-packed bite every time.
Perfectly cheesy and golden on top for irresistible texture.
Great for holidays, potlucks, or as a hearty comfort dish all year long.
Easily prepped ahead—just pop it in the oven when needed.

Ingredients

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
1 large leek, white and light green parts only, cleaned and thinly sliced
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but recommended)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish, optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a deep 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Cook Bacon and Leeks

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of drippings in the skillet. Add sliced leeks and cook until soft and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook 1 more minute.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Reduce skillet to low heat. Add butter to leeks until melted, then pour in the cream and milk, stirring to combine. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil), then mix in 1 1/2 cups Gruyère and all the Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Au Gratin

Layer half the potatoes in the prepared dish, slightly overlapping. Scatter over half the cooked bacon and leeks, then pour half the cheese sauce evenly on top. Repeat with remaining potatoes, bacon, leeks, and cheese sauce. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup Gruyère over the top.

Step 5: Bake

Cover dish loosely with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the au gratin rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh chives if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

For best texture, use a mandoline slicer to get evenly thin potato slices.
Be sure to clean leeks thoroughly to remove any gritty sand between layers.
You can prep the dish a day in advance—just assemble and refrigerate until baking time.

Variations

Vegetarian: Omit bacon and add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch.
Cheese Swap: Try cheddar or fontina in place of Gruyère for a new flavor.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños in the cheese sauce.

Required Equipment

9×13-inch baking dish
Mandoline or sharp chef’s knife
Large skillet
Slotted spoon
Mixing spoon or whisk
Aluminum foil

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Bacon Leek Au Gratin Potatoes tightly covered or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. Freezing is not recommended as the creamy sauce may separate.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve alongside roast chicken, beef tenderloin, glazed ham, or grilled salmon.
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
These potatoes also shine as a decadent brunch side!

Pro Tips

Let the dish rest after baking for cleaner slices and richer flavor.
Taste the cheese sauce before assembling and adjust seasoning as desired.
For extra crunch, sprinkle additional bacon or breadcrumbs on top in the last 10 minutes of baking.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes! Yukon Golds are ideal for their creamy texture, but Russets or red potatoes can also be used with great results.

What cheese works best for au gratin?

Gruyère and Parmesan offer rich, nutty flavors and melt beautifully, but cheddar and Swiss are also tasty alternatives.

How do I make the dish ahead of time?

Simply assemble the au gratin, cover, and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as instructed.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Serves: 8

Bacon Leek Au Gratin Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This

Ingredients