This Scalloped Potato Gratin is a decadent and indulgent dish that elevates the classic potato bake with a luxurious blend of cream, butter, garlic, and cheese. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers a creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly flavorful side dish.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
3 large russet potatoes (or more, based on preference)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
¾ cup grated sharp white Cheddar cheese
3 ½ cups whole milk

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Slice the russet potatoes thinly (around 1/8 inch) and set aside.
In a baking dish, rub the bottom with the butter to grease it. Layer 1/3 of the sliced potatoes, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Pour 1/3 of the milk over the potatoes and sprinkle 1/3 of the grated cheese on top.
Repeat the layering process twice more, ending with a final layer of cheese on top.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 hour.
After 1 hour, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Let the dish stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 248 kcal
Fat: 11g
Carbs: 29g
Protein: 10g

The History of Potato Bakes

Potatoes have been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries, originating in the Andean region of South America. They were first domesticated over 7,000 years ago by the indigenous peoples of what is now Peru. The potato eventually made its way to Europe in the late 16th century and spread across the globe, becoming a vital ingredient in various national cuisines.

The dish we now recognize as potato bake or scalloped potatoes has its roots in European cooking. Early versions of the dish can be traced to France, where it was originally known as pommes dauphinoises – a creamy, baked potato dish that became popular in the Dauphiné region of the country. The British version, known as au gratin potatoes, is similarly rich, made with a combination of butter, cream, and cheese. As the recipe spread, it evolved to accommodate local ingredients and tastes, and it became an essential part of many Western home-cooked meals.

Why This Cheesy Potato Bake Is So Special

What makes this potato bake so irresistible is the simplicity and balance of its ingredients. While there are many variations of potato bake, the core elements remain the same: potatoes, milk or cream, butter, and cheese. These components come together to create a dish that’s comforting, creamy, and satisfying.

Russet Potatoes – These potatoes are often the best choice for baking due to their starchy texture, which becomes soft and tender when cooked. Their neutral flavor allows them to absorb the richness of the butter and cheese, making them the perfect canvas for a decadent bake.
Sharp White Cheddar – The sharpness of the cheddar cheese cuts through the creaminess, offering a slight tang that balances the richness of the dish. Sharp cheddar also melts beautifully, creating a golden, bubbly crust on top of the potatoes as they bake.
Whole Milk – For a rich and creamy texture, whole milk is the perfect choice. It adds smoothness to the dish without being overly heavy like cream. When combined with butter, milk creates a luscious sauce that envelops the potatoes and infuses them with flavor.
Seasonings – Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper are used to enhance the flavors of the potatoes, while the optional pinch of cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick. The cayenne is an optional addition, but it brings a gentle heat that contrasts with the creamy richness of the dish.

The Perfect Comfort Food for Any Occasion

One of the reasons this cheesy potato bake is so beloved is its versatility. It can be served as a side dish or as a main course. Whether paired with a roast chicken, steak, or a green salad, the potato bake complements a variety of flavors. It also makes a great addition to holiday meals, especially during the colder months when people crave hearty, soul-warming dishes.

This dish works well for various occasions:

Family dinners: Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this potato bake is a great option for a family meal. The recipe can be doubled or halved depending on the number of servings you need.
Holiday feasts: From Thanksgiving to Christmas, this cheesy potato bake makes a perfect side dish. The richness of the potatoes pairs wonderfully with meats like turkey, ham, or roast beef.
Potlucks and gatherings: If you’re invited to a potluck or casual gathering, this potato bake is sure to impress. It’s a crowd-pleaser that travels well and stays warm for hours.
Comfort food on chilly nights: On days when the weather is cold and dreary, there’s nothing quite like a piping hot dish of cheesy potato bake to lift your spirits. It’s the ultimate comfort food, providing both warmth and satisfaction.

How to Make the Cheesy Potato Bake

The preparation of this cheesy potato bake is fairly straightforward, making it accessible even to beginner cooks. The key to getting the perfect texture lies in the slicing of the potatoes and the layering of ingredients.

Slicing the Potatoes: For this recipe, you want to slice the russet potatoes very thin, about 1/8 inch. This ensures that the potatoes cook evenly and absorb the creamy sauce. A mandolin slicer can be helpful for achieving uniform slices, but a sharp knife works just as well.
Layering the Dish: When assembling the dish, it’s important to layer the ingredients evenly. Start by greasing the baking dish with butter, then layer the sliced potatoes with seasonings, milk, and cheese. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of cheese on top. This ensures that every bite is creamy, cheesy, and flavorful.
Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil during the first part of the bake to help the potatoes cook through without drying out. After 1 hour, remove the foil to allow the cheese to brown and become bubbly. The end result should be a golden, crispy top with a creamy interior.

Tips for Success

While the recipe is relatively simple, here are a few tips to help ensure your cheesy potato bake turns out perfect every time:

Use a deep baking dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish works well for this recipe. You want enough depth to layer the potatoes and sauce while allowing the top to get golden brown.
Don’t skip the resting time: After baking, let the dish stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.
Make it ahead: This dish can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven.

Variations to Try

While the traditional version of this potato bake is delicious as is, there are many ways to customize the recipe to suit your tastes:

Add garlic: For a deeper flavor, you can add minced garlic to the layers of potatoes or infuse the milk with garlic while it’s warming up.
Bacon: Crispy bacon bits can be sprinkled between the layers or on top for added savory flavor and crunch.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives can be added for a fragrant, earthy element. Try adding a few sprigs of rosemary in the layering process or sprinkling fresh chives on top before serving.

Conclusion

This cheesy potato bake is a timeless recipe that will never go out of style. Its simplicity and comforting flavors make it a favorite at the dinner table, whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or as a weeknight dinner. With tender potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish offers the perfect balance of texture and flavor. It’s an adaptable recipe that can be modified with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. So next time you’re craving something comforting and cheesy, look no further than this classic potato bake – it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

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