Simple and Delicious Potato Bake: A Budget-Friendly Comfort Dish

This potato bake is the perfect solution for a hearty, affordable meal that requires little effort. Made with common kitchen staples, this creamy, cheesy bake works wonderfully as either a satisfying main dish or a comforting side. Whether you’re cooking for the family or preparing a dish to share at a gathering, this recipe delivers great flavor without stretching your budget.

What Makes This Potato Bake a Must-Try

There are plenty of reasons this dish could become a regular on your table:

• It calls for basic cooking skills — no complicated steps or techniques.
• The ingredients are simple to source and budget-friendly.
• It’s ideal for feeding a group, offering generous portions.
• Naturally vegetarian, it can also be adjusted to suit various diets.
• The combination of a rich, creamy interior and crisp, golden topping makes every bite satisfying.

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Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes! While russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy texture and starch content, you can also use Yukon Gold or other waxy potatoes. Just keep in mind that different varieties may result in a slightly different texture and baking time.

How thin should I slice the potatoes?

For best results, slice the potatoes to about ⅛ inch thick. This thickness ensures even cooking and a tender texture. Using a mandoline slicer can help you achieve consistent, uniform slices easily.

Can I add other ingredients to the bake?

Yes, you can customize the potato bake by adding ingredients like thinly sliced onions, garlic, fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary, or even cooked bacon or mushrooms to enhance the flavor. Just be mindful that extra ingredients may slightly change the cooking time and texture.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this potato bake is naturally vegetarian, as it contains no meat or animal-based ingredients aside from dairy. To make it vegan, you can substitute the heavy cream and cheddar cheese with plant-based alternatives.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this simple potato bake:

• 2 pounds (approximately 900 grams) of russet potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make It

Follow these easy steps for a perfect potato bake every time:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Arrange the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the dish.
3. In a small bowl, stir together the cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Pour this mixture evenly over the potatoes.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese across the top. Add the butter cubes evenly over the surface.
5. Cover the baking dish with foil and cook for 45 minutes.
6. Take off the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, until the potatoes are soft and the top turns golden and bubbly.
7. Allow the dish to rest for around 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of potato?
Russet potatoes are preferred due to their high starch content, which contributes to a smooth and creamy texture. However, Yukon Gold potatoes also work well if that’s what you have on hand.

How thin should the potatoes be sliced?
Try to slice the potatoes to about ⅛ inch thickness to ensure they cook evenly. A mandoline slicer is useful for creating uniform slices.

What can I add to change up the flavor?
If you like, try adding thinly sliced onions or a sprinkle of fresh thyme between the layers. Keep in mind this will change the original flavor of the dish slightly.

Helpful Tips

• Uniform potato slices are key to ensuring the dish cooks evenly.
• Actual baking time can vary depending on your oven and how thick your potato slices are.
• Letting the bake rest before serving helps the creamy sauce set, making it easier to serve neat portions.

Storing and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes to keep the top crisp.
• Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate once thawed.

Final Thoughts

This potato bake brings together comfort, simplicity, and budget-friendly ingredients in one delicious dish. With just a few steps and minimal prep, you can serve up a satisfying meal that everyone at the table will enjoy. Whether paired with a fresh salad or served alongside grilled meats, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Note:
For best results, make sure all potato slices are evenly thin to cook uniformly. Letting the dish rest after baking allows the sauce to thicken and makes it easier to serve. You can customize this recipe by adding herbs like thyme or layering in thinly sliced onions for extra flavor. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven to maintain the crispy topping.

Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 420mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 8g

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.