Save A rich decadent Southern-style casserole featuring layers of tender potatoes baked in a creamy cheesy sauce—perfect for holidays or comforting family dinners.
This dish has been a family favorite for years bringing warmth and comfort to our holiday table.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and thinly sliced 1 small yellow onion thinly sliced
- Dairy: 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream 2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar cheese shredded 1 cup (90 g) Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese shredded 4 tbsp (56 g) unsalted butter
- Pantry & Spices: 3 tbsp (24 g) all-purpose flour 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste) ½ tsp ground black pepper ¼ tsp smoked paprika Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with butter.
- Make Roux:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until bubbly but not browned.
- Add Dairy:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens about 3–5 minutes.
- Season Sauce:
- Stir in garlic powder salt pepper and paprika. Remove from heat.
- Add Cheese:
- Add 1½ cups cheddar and ½ cup Gruyère cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Layer Potatoes:
- Arrange half the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Top with half the onions.
- Add Sauce:
- Pour half the cheese sauce over the potatoes and onions. Layer the remaining potatoes and onions on top then cover with the rest of the cheese sauce.
- Top:
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Gruyère cheeses evenly over the top.
- Bake Covered:
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered:
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 25–30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbling.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Let rest for 10 minutes before garnishing with chives or parsley and serving.
Save Enjoying this dish always brings my family together sharing stories and laughter around the table.
Required Tools
9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish Saucepan Whisk Chefs knife Mandoline slicer (optional for even potato slices) Aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains Milk Cheese Butter (Dairy) Wheat (Gluten in flour) For gluten-free substitute flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend Always check cheese labels for potential allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 350 Total Fat 22 g Carbohydrates 27 g Protein 10 g
Save This dish is the perfect comforting side that complements any main course and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Kitchen Questions
- → What type of potatoes work best for this dish?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred because they hold their shape well and absorb flavors while becoming tender.
- → Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a few hours before baking. Keep it refrigerated and bake just before serving for best results.
- → How do I achieve a creamy cheese sauce without lumps?
Whisk the butter and flour together well before gradually adding milk and cream, cooking gently until thickened before adding cheese for a smooth sauce.
- → Are there ways to add extra flavor to the layers?
Consider adding a pinch of cayenne or layering cooked bacon between the potato slices for additional depth.
- → What are good garnishes for the finished dish?
Chopped fresh chives or parsley add a fresh, vibrant touch that complements the richness.