This Cheesy Potato Bake is a rich and satisfying dish, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a favorite among both kids and adults. Enjoy the savory goodness and the comforting embrace of this classic recipe!
- Preparation: 10-15 minutes (including peeling, slicing, and mixing ingredients)
- Cooking Time: 50-75 minutes in the oven at 350°F (175°C), depending on the thickness of the potato slices and the desired level of crispiness.
- Ingredients:
- 6 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the potatoes.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Cut them into thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick. If you prefer a more uniform texture, you can use a mandoline slicer for consistency.
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the sliced potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are just tender but not fully cooked. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: While the potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. This mixture will serve as your creamy cheese sauce.
- Assemble the Bake: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Begin layering the sliced potatoes in the dish, slightly overlapping them. Spread a portion of the cheese sauce over the first layer of potatoes. Repeat the layering process until all the potatoes and cheese sauce have been used, finishing with a layer of cheese sauce on top.
- Add the Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer of cheese sauce. This will create a delicious, golden crust as the dish bakes.
- Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. To ensure the potatoes are cooked through, you can insert a fork into the center of the bake; it should easily slide through the potatoes.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the Cheesy Potato Bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will help the layers set and make it easier to serve. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a touch of color and freshness.
- Enjoy: Serve the Cheesy Potato Bake as a comforting side dish or even as a main course for a hearty meal. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad.
