Creamy Cheesy Potato Casserole

Recipe Introduction: Get Ready for Cheesy Potato Bliss

Ever crave something seriously comforting? Something that just wraps you in a warm hug? This potato casserole recipe is just the ticket, then.

Imagine creamy, cheesy potatoes, bubbling hot from the oven. This ain't your average dish. It is absolute comfort food, pure and simple.

What Makes This Potato Casserole Recipe So Special?

This cheesy potato casserole is a twist on classic scalloped potatoes , maybe even funeral potatoes if you're from certain parts.

Originating from humble roots, similar dishes have been feeding families for generations. We are talking easy comfort food.

It’s a pretty simple recipe, if I am honest. Prep takes about 20 minutes, and baking is around 50. You’ll end up with enough to serve 6-8 hungry people.

This is one easy potato casserole recipe for sharing.

The Benefits Beyond the Deliciousness

This isn't just about flavor, although, let's be honest, that’s a big part of it. But potatoes, especially Yukon Gold potatoes , offer some nutritional value.

We are talking about vitamin C and potassium!.

This potato bake recipe is perfect for a holiday feast , a cosy weeknight dinner , or any time you need a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

What makes it truly special? That rich, creamy, cheddar cheese sauce, maybe with a hint of Gruyere cheese for something a bit fancy.

Now, What Do We Need?

Let's get to the ingredients.

Ingredients & Equipment for the Ultimate Potato Casserole

Right then, let's talk about what you'll need to nail this cracking cheesy potato casserole recipe . Honestly, it's all pretty straightforward stuff, nothing too fancy.

This easy potato casserole recipe is proper comfort food, a fantastic side dish , and mega cheesy.

Main Ingredients for Cheesy Goodness

So, what goes into this cheesy potato casserole , eh? First off, you'll need 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) of Yukon Gold potatoes .

These are the business because they're creamy and hold their shape well. Make sure they're firm with no sprouts. You also need 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced.

For the creamy cheese sauce, you will require:

• 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons (30g) all-purpose flour
• 3 cups (710 ml) whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cups (225g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (115g) shredded Gruyere cheese (or Swiss if you are feeling frugal)

I always go for a good quality cheddar it makes a world of difference. I like to think this is just like scalloped potatoes but even better.

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!

Now, seasoning is key. Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper taste as you go. The nutmeg adds a lovely warmth, and the Dijon gives it a bit of a tang.

If you're feeling brave, a pinch of cayenne pepper is a good addition. It adds a cheeky little kick. For you flavour enhancers, be generous, and if you do not have Gruyere, you can use Swiss as it melts perfectly.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

You don’t need loads of fancy gear. All you really need is a 9x13 inch baking dish . A large saucepan, a whisk, and a sharp knife for slicing the spuds.

I use a cheese grater (don't we all?). Don't have a proper baking dish? A sturdy ceramic dish will do the trick.

We aren't serving sausages with this beauty. This potato bake recipe is simple, and easy, and with this information, the easy potato casserole recipe is complete.

Honestly, this potato casserole will quickly become one of your favourite comfort food recipes. It is a winner for a holiday feast or just a simple weeknight dinner .

So why don't you try to make this cheesy potato casserole .

Let's Get Casserole ing! (aka Cheesy Potato Casserole Goodness)

Honestly, who doesn't love a good potato casserole ? It's the ultimate comfort food , right up there with a proper cuppa and a biscuit.

I reckon this recipe is gonna become a staple, whether it’s for a holiday feast or just a simple weeknight dinner .

This easy potato casserole recipe will knock your socks off.

Prep Like a Pro: Essential Steps

First things first, let's get our mise en place sorted. Peel and thinly slice about 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) of Yukon Gold potatoes .

Trust me, Yukon Gold potatoes are the way to go. They're creamy and hold their shape beautifully. Slice one medium onion, too.

Mince two cloves of garlic. Having everything prepped saves so much time.

step-by-step to Casserole Heaven

Right then, let's get cooking!

1. Heat 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of olive oil in a large pan. Sauté your onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add the potato slices to the pan and cook for a few minutes to soften them slightly.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons (57g) of unsalted butter . Whisk in 4 tablespoons (30g) of all-purpose flour . Cook for 1- 2 minutes to make a roux. This is key for a smooth sauce!
4. Slowly whisk in 3 cups (710 ml) of whole milk , making sure there are no lumps. Simmer until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg , 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard , 2 cups (225g) of shredded cheddar cheese , and 1 cup (115g) of shredded Gruyere cheese . Oh my gosh, the cheesy goodness!
6. Layer half of the potato mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish . Pour half of the cheese sauce over. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
7. (Optional, but recommended!) Top with a mixture of 1/4 cup (25g) of grated Parmesan cheese , 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs , and 1 tablespoon melted butter .
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375° F ( 190° C) for 45- 50 minutes , until golden brown and bubbly.

Pro Tips to Elevate Your Casserole

Use a mandoline to slice the potatoes evenly. Uneven slices mean uneven cooking. Always good to have uniformly thin slices.

Don't skip the nutmeg! It adds a lovely warmth.

Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set and makes it easier to serve.

And there you have it! A cheesy, dreamy potato casserole ready to impress. Serve it as a side dish with sausages.

Trust me, you'll be the star of the show. Enjoy your delicious potato casserole recipe !

Recipe Notes: Making Your Potato Casserole Recipe Shine!

Right then, let's dive into some tips and tricks to make your potato casserole absolutely unforgettable. Honestly, even the easiest potato casserole recipe can be elevated with a few thoughtful tweaks! Think of it as adding that extra sprinkle of magic dust!

Serving Up Success

Plating like a Pro: Don't just plonk it on the plate! A sprig of fresh thyme or parsley adds a pop of colour.

Serve straight from the baking dish for that rustic, home cooked feel.

Sidekicks: This cheesy potato casserole is pure comfort food , so keep the sides simple. A crisp green salad or some steamed greens cuts through the richness perfectly.

And a nice chilled glass of Pinot Grigio? Chef's kiss! Or you could serve up a side of sausages , classic bangers to be exact.

Storage Solutions: Keeping It Fresh

Refrigeration Reality: Got leftovers? Ace! Pop them in an airtight container and they'll be grand in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Frenzy: Believe it or not, you can freeze this cheesy potato casserole ! Let it cool completely, then wrap it well in cling film and foil.

It'll keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating Revelations: To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, bake at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through and bubbly.

A bit of extra cheese on top never hurts, does it?

Variations: Mix It Up!

Going Veggie: Want a vegetarian adaptation ? Add some roasted vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower to the potato casserole . It adds a lovely bit of texture and flavour.

dairy-free Dreams: Need a dairy-free version? Use dairy-free butter, milk, and cheese alternatives. Honestly, they've come a long way, and you'll hardly notice the difference!

Nutritional Nuggets: Goodness Inside

Alright, so this isn't exactly health food, is it? But everything in moderation! A serving of this potato casserole (approx.

1/8 of the dish) contains roughly 450-500 calories. It's packed with carbs for energy, protein from the cheese, and a good dose of calcium.

It's the perfect side dish for that big holiday feast !

So there you have it! A few extra tips to make your potato casserole or shall we say a funeral potatoes recipe even more amazing.

Now go on, get cooking and impress everyone! You've got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this potato casserole recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly with cling film and store it in the fridge. Add the optional breadcrumb topping just before baking. This makes it a perfect dish for those busy weeknights, or if you're prepping for a Sunday roast, innit?

What's the best way to store leftover potato casserole?

Leftover potato casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can microwave it for a quick and easy lunch.

Just remember microwaving might make the topping a bit soggy, so oven reheating is best if you want that crispy top again!

I don't have Gruyere cheese. What else can I use in this potato casserole recipe?

No worries, mate! If you don't have Gruyere, you can easily substitute it with Swiss cheese or even a mild cheddar. They both melt beautifully and will give you a similar nutty flavour. Just remember, cheese is a personal preference, so use what you enjoy most - a good mature cheddar can add a real punch!

How can I prevent my potato casserole from being watery?

To avoid a watery potato casserole, make sure to slice your potatoes thinly and evenly, ideally with a mandoline. You should also avoid overcooking the sauce on the stove. Furthermore, letting it stand for 10 minutes once it comes out of the oven helps the sauce to settle, preventing it from becoming watery when you slice it.

Nobody wants a soggy bottom, right?

Is this potato casserole recipe gluten-free friendly?

Not as written, but it's an easy fix! To make this potato casserole gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Also, ensure that any breadcrumbs you use for the topping are also gluten-free. Then you can tuck in without a worry!