Budget-Friendly Potato Layer Bake (Print Version)

Tender potato slices and savory onions baked with creamy cheese sauce until golden and bubbling.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2.6 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
02 - 1 large onion, thinly sliced

→ Dairy

03 - 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons whole milk
04 - 2/3 cup heavy cream
05 - 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing

→ Pantry

07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

→ Optional Toppings

11 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a medium baking dish approximately 9x11 inches with butter.
02 - Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add whole milk, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using) to the saucepan. Heat gently until warmed through without boiling, then remove from heat.
04 - Arrange half of the potato slices in the greased baking dish. Top with half of the sliced onions and half of the grated cheese.
05 - Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese.
06 - Pour the warm milk and cream mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.
07 - Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
08 - Remove the foil and continue baking for 20 minutes until the top is golden and potatoes are tender.
09 - Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Budget-friendly using simple ingredients
  • Easy to prepare with minimal effort
02 -
  • This recipe can be modified by adding layers of sliced tomatoes or bacon for extra flavor (omit bacon for vegetarian option)
  • Gruyère or mozzarella cheese works well in place of cheddar
03 -
  • Make sure to slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking
  • Do not boil the milk mixture to avoid curdling
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