Introduction
This creamy potato dish, featuring layers of tender potatoes mixed with rich cream and cheese, is a comforting classic that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for gatherings or as a satisfying side dish, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a deliciously indulgent meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 1/2 cups cream, full fat
2 garlic cloves, minced
30g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1.25 kg / 2.5 lb starchy potatoes (Russet, Sebago, Maris Piper)
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
2 1/2 cups gruyere cheese (or substitutes like colby, cheddar, havarti, or tasty), freshly grated
2 tsp thyme leaves, fresh (optional but highly recommended)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cream Mixture
Place the melted butter, full-fat cream, and minced garlic into a jug. Mix the ingredients together until fully combined.
Preheat Oven
Set your oven to preheat at 180°C (350°F) for both fan and standard ovens.
Slice Potatoes
Peel the starchy potatoes and slice them into 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick slices. A mandoline slicer can be used for uniform thickness.
Layer 1
In a baking dish, spread 1/3 of the sliced potatoes evenly. Pour 1/3 of the cream mixture over the potatoes, then scatter with 1/3 of the salt, pepper, and thyme leaves (if using). Finally, sprinkle 3/4 cup of the grated cheese over this layer.
Layers 2 & 3
Repeat the process for the second and third layers, using the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, salt, pepper, and thyme. Do not add cheese to the top layer yet.
Cover & Bake
Cover the baking dish with a lid or foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the potatoes in the center are soft when tested with a knife. Note that it may take up to 1 hour and 30 minutes in total.
Top with Cheese, Bake Again
After the initial baking, remove the lid or foil. Top the dish with the remaining cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Allow the dish to stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Note 1
Use full-fat cream for the best texture and flavor in the dish.
Note 2
Recommended potato varieties include Russet, Sebago, or Maris Piper, as they are starchy and will yield a creamy dish.
Note 3
Freshly grating your cheese enhances the flavor and texture. Options for cheese include Gruyere, Colby, Cheddar, Havarti, or Tasty cheese.
Note 4
Make sure to test the doneness of the potatoes with a knife; they should be soft throughout.
Note 5
The baking time may vary depending on the oven and thickness of the potato slices. Keep an eye on the potatoes to ensure they become tender.
Cook techniques
Cream Mixture Preparation
Combine melted butter, full-fat cream, and minced garlic in a jug and mix until well combined.
Preheating the Oven
Set your oven to 180°C (350°F), suitable for both fan and standard ovens.
Slicing the Potatoes
Peel the starchy potatoes and slice them into 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick rounds. Using a slicer can ensure uniform thickness.
Layering the Ingredients
In a baking dish, create layers by spreading 1/3 of the sliced potatoes, followed by 1/3 of the cream mixture, seasoning with a portion of salt, pepper, and thyme, and then sprinkle with grated cheese. Repeat this process for the second and third layers, omitting cheese on top during the last layer.
Baking the Dish
Cover the baking dish with a lid or foil and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft when tested with a knife. The total baking time may extend to 1 1/2 hours if needed.
Final Cheese Topping
After initial baking, remove the cover, top the dish with the remaining grated cheese, and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Allow to stand for 5 minutes before serving.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Gruyere with Colby, Cheddar, Havarti, or any cheese you prefer.
What type of potatoes should I use?
Starchy potatoes such as Russet, Sebago, or Maris Piper are recommended for this dish.
How can I tell when the potatoes are done?
Test the potatoes by inserting a knife into the middle; they should be soft when fully cooked.
Is it necessary to cover the dish while baking?
Yes, covering it helps to cook the potatoes evenly and retain moisture during the first baking phase.
Can thyme be omitted from the recipe?
Yes, thyme is optional, but it adds flavor; you can choose to leave it out if desired.
Conclusion
This creamy potato dish, layered with a rich blend of garlic, cheese, and herbs, results in a comforting and indulgent meal that is sure to satisfy. The combination of gruyere cheese and fresh thyme adds depth and flavor, making it a perfect side or main dish for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cheesy Vegetable Gratin
Combine sliced zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers with the same cream mixture and gruyere for a colorful, nutritious dish.
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
Add crispy bacon bits and green onions between the layers along with the cheese for a delicious twist on classic flavors.
Mushroom and Spinach Potato Bake
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms and spinach to the layers for added texture and flavor.
Herbed Cauliflower Gratin
Replace half of the potatoes with cauliflower florets, seasoned with the same herbs for a lower-carb alternative.
Smoked Gouda Potato Bake
Experiment with smoked gouda cheese for a unique, smoky flavor profile in your cheesy potato dish.
