“Creamy Cheesy Potato Bake: A Comfort Food Classic”

When it comes to potato bake recipes, you’re diving into a world of hearty comfort food. Potato bake, also known as scalloped potatoes or au gratin potatoes, features thinly sliced potatoes layered with cheese, cream, and sometimes other flavorful ingredients like garlic and onions. The dish is baked until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly, creating a satisfying and indulgent side dish or even a main course. It’s a classic dish that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family meals, offering a delicious way to enjoy the humble potato in all its creamy, cheesy glory. With variations ranging from simple to gourmet, potato bake recipes can be adapted to suit different tastes and occasions, making them a versatile addition to any kitchen repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds potatoes (such as Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer Potatoes: Grease a baking dish with butter or oil. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the dish. Season with salt, pepper, and half of the minced garlic.
3. Add Onion: Layer half of the sliced onion over the potatoes.
4. Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the onions.
5. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onion, and cheese.
6. Mix Cream and Broth: In a bowl, mix the heavy cream and broth. Pour this mixture evenly over the potato layers.
7. Season: Season the top layer with salt, pepper, and the rest of the minced garlic.
8. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
9. Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10. Serve: Let the potato bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.

This recipe is quite customizable—you can add bacon bits, diced ham, or even sliced mushrooms for variation. Enjoy your potato bake!

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