Classic au gratin potatoes, one of the endearing comfort foods that fall into the side dish category. Thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a simple white (béchamel) sauce embellished with cheddar cheese and topped with bread crumbs.

Au Gratin Potatoes

4 cups thinly sliced potatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
1/4 cup butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 cups milk
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded Wisconsin sharp cheddar cheese - divided use
1/4 cup fine dry bread crumbs
Paprika

1. In a 2 quart saucepan, cook onion in butter until tender. Stir in flour, salt and pepper; cook over low heat until mixture is bubbly, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; gradually stir in milk and 1 1/2 cups cheese. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly; cook for 1 minute.
2. In an ungreased 1 1/2 quart casserole dish, place potatoes; cover with cheese sauce.
3. Bake, uncovered, at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour.
4. Mix remaining cheese and bread crumbs; sprinkle over potatoes. Sprinkle with paprika.
5. Bake, uncovered, at 325°F (160°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, until top is brown and bubbly.

Makes 4 servings.

Recipe provided courtesy of Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Inc.