Pin A comforting, wallet-friendly casserole featuring tender potato slices, savory onions, and a creamy cheese sauce, baked until golden and bubbling.
This potato layer bake has become a family favorite on chilly evenings, bringing warmth and comfort to the dinner 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
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 190℃ (375℉). Grease a medium baking dish with butter.
- Step 2:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Stir in the milk, cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Heat gently until just warmed—do not boil. Remove from heat.
- Step 4:
- Layer half the potato slices in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the sliced onions and half of the cheese.
- Step 5:
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese.
- Step 6:
- Pour the warm milk and cream mixture evenly over the layers.
- Step 7:
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
- Step 9:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Pin 
This casserole has saved many weeknights; gathering the family around the table for comforting food and good conversation.
Optional Variations
Try adding sliced tomatoes between layers or swapping cheddar cheese for Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty bake as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad or as a side dish complementing roasted meats.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture retention.
Pin A simple yet satisfying dish that brings comfort and flavor with minimal effort, perfect for any occasion.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of potatoes work best for layering?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal as they become tender and absorb the creamy sauce well.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a few hours before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
- → How can I make the top extra crispy?
Remove the foil during the last 20 minutes of baking to allow the cheese and potatoes to brown and crisp up nicely.
- → Are there suitable substitutes for cheddar cheese?
Gruyère or mozzarella can be used for a different flavor profile, both melt well and complement the creamy sauce.
- → What garnishes work well with this dish?
Fresh parsley adds color and freshness, while chopped chives or a sprinkle of paprika can also enhance presentation and taste.