This cheesy baked potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and will definitely impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. A mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform slices.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Season with thyme, basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
- Arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer in the baking dish.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
- Add the remaining potato slices on top, followed by the rest of the cheese sauce.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole:
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamier texture, or Yukon Golds for a more buttery flavor.
- Uniform Slices: Ensure the potato slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking. A mandoline slicer is ideal for this.
- Season Well: Potatoes can be bland without proper seasoning. Make sure to season each layer with salt and pepper.
- Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well, fresh thyme and basil can elevate the flavor. Just double the amount if using fresh herbs.
- Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice.
Why This Recipe Works:
This casserole is a harmonious blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes soak up the rich cheese sauce, while the top layer gets beautifully browned and crisp. The addition of garlic and herbs enhances the overall taste, making it a standout dish.
The recipe is versatile and can be adapted to include other ingredients like bacon, ham, or vegetables for added flavor and texture. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or as a comforting weeknight meal.
Cheesy baked potato casserole is a dish that never fails to please. It’s simple to prepare yet delivers a rich and satisfying flavor that’s hard to resist. Serve it as a side dish or a main course, and watch it become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delectable casserole with your loved ones and bask in the compliments that are sure to follow. Bon appétit!
