Introduction: 

Potato bake, also known as scalloped potatoes or au gratin potatoes, is a comforting and indulgent dish that's perfect for any occasion. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes, bathed in a rich and creamy sauce, and baked to golden perfection - it's a side dish that's hard to resist. In this article, we'll share a classic potato bake recipe that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds.


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Ingredients:

2 pounds (about 4-5 medium-sized) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup whole milk

2 cups grated Gruyère or cheddar cheese

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)


Equipment:

9x13-inch baking dish

Large skillet

Whisk

Mixing bowls


Instructions:

Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.


Prepare the Potatoes:

Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, using a mandoline or a sharp knife. This step ensures even cooking.


Make the Creamy Sauce:

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed garlic and onions, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.

Gradually pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. 

Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the grated cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook and stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.


Layer the Potatoes:

Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Pour a portion of the creamy cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat this process until all the potatoes and sauce are used up, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.


Bake to Perfection:

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated cheese over the top of the potato bake.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.


Serve and Garnish:

Let the potato bake rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.


Enjoy!Serve your creamy potato bake as a side dish alongside your favorite protein, or enjoy it as a hearty main course.


Tips and Variations:

Experiment with different cheese varieties like Parmesan, Swiss, or Monterey Jack to create unique flavor profiles.

For a little extra flavor, you can add crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms between the potato layers.

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute some or all of the heavy cream with whole milk.

Make sure to slice the potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.

Leftover potato bake can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for a delicious meal the next day.


Conclusion: 

This creamy potato bake is a classic comfort food dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Its rich, cheesy sauce and tender potato layers create a satisfying and indulgent experience that's perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Whether it's a side dish or the star of the meal, this potato bake is a hearty and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire.