Here’s a comforting and hearty recipe for a Rustic Golden Potato Bake – creamy layers of thinly sliced potatoes with a cheesy golden crust on top. Perfect as a side dish or even a main with a fresh salad. ✨

 Rustic Golden Potato Bake

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) golden/yukon potatoes, thinly sliced (skin on for rustic style)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary (or ½ tsp dried)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, gruyère, or mozzarella blend)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes

• Wash potatoes well and slice thinly (about ⅛ inch).
• You can leave the skin on for a rustic feel or peel if you prefer.

2. Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Stir in cream, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
4. Let it warm through but don’t boil. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Layer half the potato slices evenly in the dish.
3. Top with half the onion slices (if using).
4. Pour half the cream mixture over.
5. Sprinkle with half the cheese.
6. Repeat with remaining potatoes, onion, sauce, and cheese.
7. Finish with parmesan on top.

4. Bake

• Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake another 20–25 minutes, until potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

5. Serve

• Let rest for 10 minutes before serving (this helps it set).
• Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Make it meaty: Add cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken between layers.
• Veggie boost: Layer in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Crispier top: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
• Make ahead: Assemble up to 1 day before, refrigerate, then bake when ready.

✨ This Rustic Golden Potato Bake is creamy, cheesy, and beautifully golden — the perfect comfort food side dish.