This Cheesy Potato Bake is a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that layers tender potato slices with a rich, creamy, and cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, it pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a hearty vegetarian main. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, this classic dish brings warmth and flavor to any meal.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients:
• 4 large potatoes (about 800g), peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 small onion (about 100g), thinly sliced
• 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (240ml) cream or milk
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese for topping
• Optional: 2 tablespoons (8g) chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes and onions in the dish, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese.
- In a bowl, whisk together cream or milk, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour half of this mixture over the potatoes.
- Add the remaining potatoes and onions, top with the rest of the cheese, and pour over the remaining cream mixture. If using, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 45 minutes until the potatoes are tender, and the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or chives if desired.
5 Serving Suggestions:
• Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled steak
• Enjoy alongside a green salad for a balanced meal
• Pair with steamed vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian dinner
• Top with crispy bacon bits or ham for an extra savory twist
• Present as a comforting brunch dish with scrambled eggs on the side
Cooking Tips:
• Ensure potatoes are sliced evenly for consistent cooking
• Adjust seasoning to taste and add more cheese for a richer flavor
• Use waxy or all-purpose potatoes for the best texture
• Let the dish rest before serving to allow the sauce to thicken
• For extra crispiness, broil the top for a few minutes at the end of baking
Nutritional Benefits:
• Potatoes provide fiber, vitamin C, and potassium
• Cheese adds protein and calcium
• Using milk or cream provides essential nutrients like vitamin D
• Onions add antioxidants and support immune function
• A balanced side dish that contributes to overall nutrient intake
Dietary Information:
• Vegetarian if using vegetarian cheese
• Gluten-free if ensuring all ingredients are gluten-free
• Can be made dairy-free with plant-based cheese and milk alternatives
• Nut-free and suitable for most dietary preferences
• Not low-carb due to potato content, but can be enjoyed in moderation
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):
• Calories: 300 kcal
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 500mg
Storage:
• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness, or microwave for convenience
• Freeze leftovers for up to 1 month, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating
• Reheat gently to avoid curdling of the dairy-based sauce
• Keep covered to prevent the dish from drying out when stored
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Comforting and indulgent, perfect for family meals or entertaining
• Easy preparation with simple, readily available ingredients
• Customizable with various cheeses, herbs, or added proteins
• Versatile side dish that pairs well with many main courses
• A guaranteed crowd-pleaser loved by kids and adults alike
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Conclusion:
This Cheesy Potato Bake is a timeless comfort food that brings together soft, tender potato slices with a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Its versatility makes it suitable for any occasion, while its simple steps ensure that both seasoned cooks and beginners can achieve delicious results. Each forkful is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that warms the soul. Whether served at a festive gathering or a quiet family dinner, this cheesy bake is sure to become a cherished favorite at your table.
10 Frequently Asked Questions with Answers:
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with gouda, Gruyère, or mozzarella for different flavors. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving. - How do I prevent the dish from becoming too runny?
Ensure the potatoes are well-drained and use the correct amount of cream. Letting it rest after baking helps thicken the sauce. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can add variety and extra nutrients. - Is it possible to make it lighter?
Use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese to decrease calories and fat. - Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes work well and provide a sweeter flavor. - How can I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat in the oven covered with foil or add a splash of milk before microwaving. - Can I add spices like paprika or chili flakes?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite spices for extra flavor. - How do I make it vegan?
Use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and a dairy-free butter substitute. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently.