Save A comforting, wallet-friendly casserole featuring tender potato slices, savory onions, and a creamy cheese sauce, baked until golden and bubbling.
This potato layer bake has been a family favorite during cozy weeknights, bringing warmth and comfort to our table every time.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs), peeled and thinly sliced
- Onion: 1 large, thinly sliced
- Whole milk: 200 ml (3/4 cup + 2 tbsp)
- Heavy cream: 150 ml (2/3 cup)
- Grated cheddar cheese: 120 g (1 cup)
- Unsalted butter: 30 g (2 tbsp), plus extra for greasing
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 tsp (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tbsp (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a medium baking dish with butter.
- Melt butter:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare sauce:
- Stir in the milk, cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Heat gently until just warmed—do not boil. Remove from heat.
- Layer potatoes:
- Layer half the potato slices in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the sliced onions and half of the cheese.
- Repeat layers:
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese.
- Add sauce:
- Pour the warm milk and cream mixture evenly over the layers.
- Bake covered:
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Bake uncovered:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
- Rest and garnish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Save This dish often brings the family together, with everyone eager to enjoy its creamy layers and rich flavors on chilly evenings.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, cutting board, saucepan, baking dish (approx. 22x28 cm / 9x11 in), aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains milk and cheese (dairy). Check cheese and cream packaging for potential allergens or additives.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 370 per serving. Total Fat: 17 g. Carbohydrates: 44 g. Protein: 10 g.
Save This simple yet delicious potato layer bake is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a comforting side for special meals.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of cheese works best for this dish?
Cheddar is recommended for its sharp flavor and melting qualities, but Gruyère or mozzarella can be used for variation.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it earlier and refrigerate before baking, but bake as directed to ensure creamy texture.
- → How do I know when the potatoes are cooked through?
The potato slices should be tender when pierced with a fork after baking, and the top should be golden brown.
- → Is it necessary to cover the dish with foil while baking?
Covering with foil initially helps the potatoes cook evenly and retain moisture, then uncovering allows the top to brown.
- → Can I add other vegetables to this bake?
Yes, adding sliced tomatoes or cooked bacon enhances flavor and texture, but keep additional moisture in mind.