Save It A comforting, wallet-friendly casserole featuring tender potato slices, savory onions, and a creamy cheese sauce, baked until golden and bubbling.
This dish has been a favorite for quick weeknight dinners in my family for years, always bringing smiles at the table.
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.
- Prepare sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Heat dairy mix:
- Stir in the milk, cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Heat gently until just warmed—do not boil. Remove from heat.
- Assemble layers:
- 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 It This recipe always creates warm family gatherings with its delicious aroma and comforting taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a main course with a green salad or as a hearty side dish to your favorite meat or vegetable entrée.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Variations
Add sliced tomatoes between layers for extra flavor, or include cooked bacon if not vegetarian.
Save It This potato layer bake is a perfect combination of creamy and crispy, making it a guaranteed family favorite.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How do I achieve tender potato layers?
Slice potatoes thinly and bake covered with foil initially to trap steam, then uncovered for browning. This ensures tender and evenly cooked layers.
- → Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Yes, gruyère or mozzarella are excellent alternatives that melt well and complement the flavors.
- → What is the purpose of nutmeg in the dish?
Nutmeg adds a subtle warm spice that enhances the creamy sauce without overpowering the other flavors.
- → How long should the bake rest after cooking?
Let it rest for about 5 minutes to let the layers set and make it easier to serve.
- → Can additional ingredients be added for variation?
Yes, you can add sliced tomatoes or cooked bacon to introduce extra flavors and textures.