This recipe for creamy garlic potatoes with cheese is a comforting and indulgent side dish that can elevate any meal. The combination of soft, buttery potatoes with rich cream and melted cheese creates a delightful and satisfying experience. Perfect for serving at family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a creamy, cheesy treat, this dish is simple to prepare yet packs a lot of flavors.

Potatoes have been a staple food across many cultures for centuries, beloved for their versatility and ability to absorb flavors. In this recipe, we’re using garlic, butter, and cream to create a luscious sauce that complements the natural starchiness of the potatoes. The cheese adds a final touch of richness, turning this humble vegetable into a decadent side dish. Whether served alongside a roast or enjoyed on its own, these creamy garlic potatoes with cheese are sure to be a hit at your table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

Potatoes – 3 medium-sized (about 600-700 g)

Garlic cloves – 5 (finely chopped or minced)
Butter – 100 grams (3.5 ounces)
Cream (20% fat) – 250 ml (8.4 fl. oz)

Salt – 1 teaspoon or to taste
Cheese slices – 12 pieces (for layering)
Grated cheese – 80 grams (2.8 ounces) (for topping)

Aluminum foil – For covering the dish during baking

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Peel and Slice the Potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into thin slices, about 1/4 inch (5-7 mm) thick. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the creamy flavors.
Mince the Garlic: Finely chop or mince the garlic cloves and set them aside.

Grate the Cheese: Grate 80 grams of your preferred cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or gruyère) for the topping. Cut an additional 12 slices of cheese for layering between the potatoes.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once fully melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Add the Cream: Pour in the 250 ml of cream and stir the mixture. Let it simmer on low heat for 3-4 minutes, allowing the garlic flavors to infuse the cream. Season with salt to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Potatoes

Layer the Potatoes and Cheese: In a baking dish, arrange half of the sliced potatoes in a single layer. Place the 12 pieces of cheese over the potatoes. Add the remaining potatoes on top, creating a second layer.
Pour the Creamy Sauce: Evenly pour the garlic-infused cream over the layered potatoes, ensuring all the slices are coated.

Step 4: Bake the Potatoes

Cover with Foil: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture and prevent the top from browning too quickly.

Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the covered baking dish in the oven and bake for 40 minutes.
Remove Foil and Add Cheese: After 40 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top of the potatoes. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

Let it Rest: Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes slicing easier.

Garnish (Optional): For extra flavor and color, you can garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving.

Cooking Tips:

Cheese Choices: Use a cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, gouda, or gruyère. For a more intense flavor, you can mix in a little parmesan with the grated cheese.
Make it Lighter: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream.

Garlic Infusion: Be careful not to brown the garlic while cooking it in the butter. Burnt garlic can add a bitter taste to the dish, so keep the heat low and cook until it’s just soft and fragrant.

Storage:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Freezing: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the baked potatoes for up to 1 month. Allow them to cool completely, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze. To reheat, bake in the oven directly from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 30-40 minutes.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

Note: Approximate values based on recipe quantities and serving size.

Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 8 g

Fat: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 2 g

Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 650 mg

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of potato? Yes, starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best as they absorb the cream well and become tender when baked.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and follow the baking instructions.
Can I add other ingredients to the potatoes? Certainly! You can add ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, cooked bacon, or sliced onions for extra flavor. Just layer them between the potatoes before adding the cream.
Can I use a different kind of cream? You can use heavy cream, half-and-half, or even a dairy-free cream alternative, depending on your dietary preferences.

What if my potatoes are still firm after baking? If the potatoes are not tender after the suggested baking time, cover them again with foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until fully cooked.

Conclusion:

Creamy garlic potatoes with cheese are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together simple ingredients to create a rich, flavorful side dish that will complement any meal. The creamy garlic sauce infuses the potatoes with deep flavor, while the cheese adds a delightful gooey topping. Whether you’re serving this as a side for roasted meats or as a vegetarian main dish, these potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Bon appétit!