When it comes to comforting classics that bring everyone back for seconds, the humble potato bake is hard to beat. Creamy, cheesy, warm, and ridiculously satisfying, it’s the kind of side dish that quietly steals the spotlight at any dinner table, barbecue, or Sunday roast.
Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just a cosy night in, this simple yet scrumptious recipe is bound to be a winner. Let’s dive into how to whip up your own golden, bubbling tray of potato goodness.
Why Potato Bake is Always a Crowd Favourite
There’s just something so comforting about layers of thinly sliced spuds cooked to perfection in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s rich but not too heavy, versatile enough to pair with anything from roast chicken to grilled veggies, and always feels like a warm hug in food form.
Plus, it’s easy to prep ahead of time and pop in the oven when you’re ready, perfect for when you’ve got guests coming over or just want to make your weeknight dinner a little more special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to put this irresistible side together:
- 1.5 kg potatoes (try to go for something waxy like Dutch creams or Sebago)
- 2 cups thickened cream
- 1 cup milk (full cream gives the best texture)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped (optional, but adds a lovely depth)
- 2 cups grated tasty cheese (cheddar or a blend works beautifully)
- Salt and cracked pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh thyme or chives for a fresh finish (optional)
- A little butter for greasing
How to Make Your Potato Bake Step-by-Step
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Start by peeling your potatoes and slicing them thinly, around 3mm thick. A mandoline slicer can help get them nice and even, but a sharp knife works just fine, too.
If you’re using onion, slice or dice it finely. Mince your garlic and grate your cheese so everything is ready to go.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a medium saucepan over low heat, warm up the cream and milk, then stir in the garlic and onion. Let it gently simmer for about 5 minutes so all the flavours mingle nicely. Don’t let it boil, just keep it warm and infused.
Add a pinch of salt and pepper, and give it a taste to adjust the seasoning.
3. Layer It Up
Grease a baking dish with butter. Then begin layering your potato slices neatly, overlapping slightly like fallen dominoes. After the first layer, pour a little of the creamy mixture on top and sprinkle with some of the cheese.
Repeat the layers until everything is used up—reserving a generous handful of cheese for the final top layer. Pour the remaining cream mix evenly over the top.
4. Bake to Perfection
Cover your dish loosely with foil and pop it into a preheated oven at 180°C (fan-forced) for around 45–50 minutes. Then remove the foil, scatter the remaining cheese over the top, and bake for another 20–25 minutes or until the top is gorgeously golden and bubbling.
Stick a knife into the middle to check if the potatoes are cooked through—it should glide in with no resistance.
5. Let It Rest (Just a Bit!)
It’s tempting to dive straight in, but letting your bake rest for 10–15 minutes helps it set and makes serving way easier.
Variations to Try
Want to jazz it up a little? Here are some yummy variations:
- Add bacon: Pan-fry some chopped bacon and layer it through the potatoes for a smoky touch.
- Swap the cream: Use a combo of sour cream and milk for a tangier taste.
- Add veggies: Thin slices of sweet potato, zucchini, or even spinach between the layers work beautifully.
- Herb it up: Sprinkle fresh rosemary, thyme, or even a bit of Dijon mustard into the sauce for a boost of flavour.
What to Serve with Potato Bake
Honestly? This side dish goes with just about everything. Here are a few ideas:
- Roast meats like lamb, beef, or chicken
- BBQ sausages or grilled veggies
- Baked fish or salmon fillets
- A fresh leafy salad to balance out the richness
It’s also excellent the next day. Reheat it in the oven for a little crunch, or microwave it if you’re short on time. Leftovers? Yes, please.
Final Thoughts
A classic potato bake is one of those dishes that never go out of style. It’s cosy, creamy, and packed with flavour, all from a handful of everyday ingredients. Whether you serve it alongside your Sunday roast or bring it to a potluck dinner, it’s bound to win hearts (and empty plates).
So next time you’re thinking about a fuss-free yet impressive side dish, you know what to make. Get your spuds, cream and cheese ready, it’s bake o’clock!