Introduction
Few dishes are as comforting and satisfying as a Cheesy Potato Bake. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes and onions are baked in a rich, creamy sauce, then topped with melted cheese for a golden, bubbly finish. Whether you serve it as a side dish for a family meal or as a standalone dish, this recipe is sure to impress with its flavorful, creamy, and cheesy goodness.
Perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, or special occasions, this easy potato bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Rich & Creamy – The perfect blend of milk, cream, and cheese.
✔ Crispy & Golden Top – A beautiful cheese crust for extra flavor.
✔ Versatile – Serve it as a side dish or a main meal.
✔ Customizable – Add different cheeses, herbs, or proteins.
✔ Easy to Make – Just slice, layer, bake, and enjoy!
Ingredients Needed
For the Potato Bake:
- 2 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or cake pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes and Onions
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes and onion into even rounds.
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Sliced potatoes
- Sliced onion
- Olive oil
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme
- Toss everything together to coat the potatoes and onions evenly.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
- Arrange half of the potato mixture evenly at the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Pour half of the heavy cream and milk over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, cream, milk, and cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Potato Dish
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Let the potato bake cool slightly before slicing.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill for extra flavor.
- Serve warm as a delicious side dish or main course.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Potato Bake
✔ Use a mix of cheeses – Combining cheddar and mozzarella gives the best flavor and melt.
✔ Slice potatoes evenly – This ensures they cook uniformly.
✔ Cover with foil first – This keeps the potatoes tender before crisping the top.
✔ Add more cream for extra richness – If you love ultra-creamy potatoes, increase the cream slightly.
✔ Let it cool before serving – This helps the layers set for easy slicing.
Variations & Customizations
Bacon & Cheese Potato Bake
- Add crispy bacon bits between the layers for a smoky, savory twist.
Garlic & Herb Potato Bake
- Use fresh garlic and rosemary instead of garlic powder and thyme.
Loaded Potato Bake
- Add chopped green onions, sour cream, and crispy bacon on top after baking.
Spicy Cheesy Potato Bake
- Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
Meat Lovers’ Version
- Add cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or ham between the layers for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
🍽 With a Grilled Steak or Chicken – A perfect side dish for a hearty meal.
🍽 With a Fresh Salad – A crisp green salad balances the richness.
🍽 With Roasted Vegetables – Adds color and nutrients to your plate.
🍽 As a Brunch Dish – Serve alongside eggs and bacon for a morning treat.
How to Store & Reheat
Refrigeration
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until hot.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
Nutritional Information
⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 60 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 75 minutes
🍽 Servings: 6
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | ~10g |
| Carbs | ~40g |
| Fat | ~18g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes! Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for their creamy texture.
2. Can I make this potato bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives the best flavor and melt.
4. Can I make this dish without heavy cream?
Yes! You can use all milk or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
5. How do I make it extra crispy on top?
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a crispy golden crust.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food, packed with layers of tender potatoes, caramelized onions, rich cream, and melty cheese. It’s a versatile, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect as a side or main course.
Whether you serve it for a holiday feast, a family dinner, or a casual get-together, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. Try it today and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!