Budget-Friendly Potato Layer Bake (Printer View)

Tender potato slices layered with onions and cheese sauce, baked until golden and bubbly.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2.6 pounds peeled, thinly sliced potatoes
02 - 1 large onion, thinly sliced

→ Dairy

03 - 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons whole milk
04 - 2/3 cup heavy cream
05 - 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing

→ Pantry

07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

→ Optional Toppings

11 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

# Method:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a medium baking dish with butter.
02 - Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Stir in whole milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Warm gently without boiling, then remove from heat.
04 - Arrange half the potato slices in the baking dish. Top with half the onions and half the grated cheddar cheese.
05 - Add remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese in layers.
06 - Evenly pour the warm milk and cream mixture over the layered potatoes and onions.
07 - Cover dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
08 - Remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes until top is golden and potatoes are tender.
09 - Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley as desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Budget-friendly ingredients
  • Easy to prepare and bake
02 -
  • For extra flavor, add a layer of sliced tomatoes or sprinkle in cooked bacon (if not vegetarian)
  • Gruyère or mozzarella cheese can be used instead of cheddar
03 -
  • Use a sharp knife to ensure even thin slices for uniform cooking
  • Do not boil the milk and cream mixture to avoid curdling
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