Nothing says comfort food quite like a cheesy potato bake. This dish combines tender potatoes with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, making it the perfect side for any meal or a cozy main course on its own. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this cheesy delight is sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 2 tbsp butter (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). You can use a mandoline for uniform slices.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt a little butter and add the chopped onion. Sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, sautéed onions and garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat gently until just warmed, then stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
- Layer the Bake: Arrange a layer of potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat the layering process until all the potatoes and sauce are used, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cheesy potato bake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set a bit and make it easier to serve.
Enjoy your cheesy potato bake with a fresh salad or as a hearty side to your favorite main dish. It’s comfort food at its finest!
