Are you searching for the perfect comfort food that’ll have your family asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds)? Look no further than this incredible creamy potato casserole recipe that combines tender potatoes, rich cream, melty cheese, and the perfect blend of seasonings for a dish that’s sure to become a staple at your dinner table.
As someone whose been perfecting potato dishes for decades, I can confidently say this casserole stands out from all the rest. The secret lies in the layering technique and the perfect balance of flavors that transform simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. Whether your serving it for a holiday gathering, Sunday dinner, or just because you’re craving something hearty and delicious, this creamy potato bake delivers every single time.
Why This Creamy Potato Casserole Recipe Works
This isn’t just any potato dish – it’s a carefully crafted casserole that brings together the best elements of scalloped potatoes, potato gratin, and loaded mashed potatoes. The result? A creamy, dreamy potato side dish that pairs perfectly with anything from roast chicken to grilled steak, or even stands proudly on its own as the star of the meal.
What makes this potato casserole unique is the combination of different potato varieties, a homemade cream sauce that doesn’t separate during baking, and the perfect amount of cheese that creates that irresistable golden crust on top. The herbs and seasonings are balanced to enhance, not overpower, the natural flavor of the potatoes.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
- Mandoline or sharp knife for slicing potatoes
- Aluminum foil
- Measuring cups and spoons
Creamy Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 1x
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced 1/8-inch thick
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for greasing
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheese blend
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a 9×13 baking dish.
- Slice potatoes and soak in cold water.
- Warm cream, milk, and bay leaf. Make a flour slurry and add to cream mixture.
- Add seasonings to cream mixture and simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Drain and dry potatoes. Layer 1/3 potatoes, onions, garlic, cream sauce, and cheese.
- Repeat layers twice more.
- Mix remaining cheese with breadcrumbs, butter, and parsley.
- Cover and bake 45 minutes, then uncover, add topping, and bake 25-30 minutes more until golden.
- Rest 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions.
Notes
- Can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated.
- Leftovers keep up to 4 days refrigerated or 2 months frozen.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Method: Baking, Layering
- Cuisine: American, Midwestern, Home-style
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10
- Calories: 375
Keywords: creamy potato casserole, potato bake, cheesy potato dish, make ahead side dish, comfort food, holiday potatoes, potato gratin
Nutritional Information
Based on 10 servings:
- Calories: 375
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
Expert Tips for the Best Potato Casserole
- Consistent slicing is key to even cooking – aim for uniform thickness in your potato slices.
- Don’t rush the process – the gentle pre-cooking of the cream sauce develops flavor and helps prevent curdling.
- Season each layer rather than just the sauce, which ensures flavor throughout the entire dish.
- Let it rest before serving – this isn’t just for show; it actually helps the casserole hold together better when served.
- Make it your own by adjusting herbs and cheese to your family’s preferences. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable!
Why This Will Become Your Go-To Potato Recipe
There’s something magical about a well-made potato casserole. It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort with every bite, that makes people close their eyes for a moment to savor the creamy, cheesy goodness. This particular recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication – it’s easy enough for a weeknight family dinner but special enough for your holiday table.
As the aroma of herbs, potatoes, and bubbling cheese fills your kitchen, you’ll understand why this dish has stood the test of time. It connects us to traditions of hearty, nurturing food that brings people together around the table. And isnt that what cooking is all about?
So go ahead – treat yourself and your loved ones to this exceptional creamy potato casserole. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something truly memorable.
