This recipe is a delightful side dish perfect for any occasion. Creamy cheese sauce blanketing tender potatoes creates a comforting and flavorful dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk (or half and half for extra richness)
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, divided
- 4 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add the onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the pan and whisk it into the melted butter, creating a roux. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of thyme.
- Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- In a single layer, arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese (optional).
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh thyme (optional) and serve hot.
Tips:
- For extra crispy edges, broil the casserole on high for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- You can substitute Gruyere or Monterey Jack cheese for the cheddar cheese.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as chopped broccoli, carrots, or peas.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.