Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Rich and Creamy Potato Bake! Imagine layers of perfectly sliced potatoes, bathed in a luxurious cream sauce and blanketed with melted cheddar and Parmesan cheese - a dish so irresistible, it'll have everyone at the table begging for seconds. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or looking to impress your guests, this American-style potato bake is your secret weapon to creating pure, cheesy comfort on a plate.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash and peel the potatoes. Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, cut potatoes into thin, uniform slices approximately 1/8 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and consistent texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture thoroughly to distribute the garlic and seasonings evenly.
- Layer the potato slices in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping each slice. After each layer, drizzle some of the cream mixture and sprinkle a portion of both cheddar and Parmesan cheeses.
- Continue layering potatoes, cream mixture, and cheeses until all ingredients are used, ensuring the top layer is covered with cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, creating a tight seal to trap moisture and help potatoes cook evenly.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from oven and let the potato bake rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives if desired, and serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Slice Consistency is Key: Use a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife to ensure uniform potato slices. Consistent thickness guarantees even cooking and a perfect texture.
- Don't Skip the Resting Time: Letting the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving much easier. Patience pays off in creating the perfect creamy texture.
- Cheese Selection Matters: While the recipe calls for cheddar and Parmesan, feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Gruyère or fontina can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Prevent Burning: Cover the dish with foil for the first 45 minutes to keep moisture in and prevent the top from burning too quickly.
- Make it Your Own: Add crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, or fresh herbs like thyme between layers for a personalized touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 90mg
