Potato Bake Recipe

Ingredients

For the Potato Layers:

• 6 medium golden potatoes (Yukon Gold works best), thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (optional, for sweetness)
• 2 tbsp butter (for greasing the dish)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Gruyère for richer flavor)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (warm)
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow – optional, for flavor depth)
• ½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for rustic flavor)
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra paprika or black pepper for dusting

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and peel potatoes (peeling optional for a rustic look).
2. Slice thinly (about ⅛ inch thick) using a sharp knife or mandoline.
3. Place slices in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while preparing sauce.

2. Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Stir in flour and cook for another minute to form a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream until smooth.
5. Add mustard, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Potato Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
3. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in overlapping layers.
4. Sprinkle half the onions (if using) and half the cheese.
5. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the top.
6. Repeat with remaining potatoes, onions, cheese, and sauce.
7. Sprinkle extra cheese on top.

4. Bake

1. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake another 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving (this helps it set).

5. Garnish & Serve

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a dash of paprika or black pepper.
• Serve warm as a side with roasted chicken, steak, or grilled vegetables.

Tips & Variations

• Rustic Style: Leave the potato skins on for extra flavor and texture.
• Extra Creamy: Add ½ cup cream cheese into the sauce.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix cheddar with Gruyère or Parmesan for depth.
• Make Ahead: Assemble up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
• Add-ins: Cooked bacon bits, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms make it even heartier.

 This Rustic Golden Potato Bake is rich, creamy, cheesy, and comforting – the perfect side dish for holidays or Sunday dinners.

Would you like me to also give you a lighter version (without heavy cream, using just milk and olive oil)?