Golden Baked Cheese Potatoes are a delightfully comforting dish, perfect for any occasion. With layers of creamy cheese and perfectly seasoned potatoes, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you're planning a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes are sure to impress.
The star of this dish is the russet potatoes. They're ideal for baking due to their high starch content, which helps achieve that fluffy interior. Next, we have cheddar cheese, which melts beautifully and adds a sharp, tangy flavor. Sour cream introduces a rich creaminess and slight tang, balancing the flavors. The unsalted butter and milk work together to create a smooth and luscious base. Adding garlic powder, salt, and black pepper enhances the overall taste, while chopped chives provide a fresh, vibrant finish.
Golden Baked Cheese Potatoes pair beautifully with grilled meats such as steak or chicken. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a fresh leafy salad or roasted vegetables. These potatoes also make a fantastic addition to a brunch spread, complementing eggs and bacon wonderfully.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it's ready for baking once you've assembled the dish. While the oven heats, wash and peel your russet potatoes. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds; this thickness allows them to cook evenly and absorb the flavors well.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture acts as a flavorful bath for the potatoes, ensuring each slice is seasoned to perfection. Pour this buttery blend over the sliced potatoes in a large mixing bowl, tossing them until every slice is nicely coated.
Prepare your baking dish by greasing it lightly, preventing any sticking. Layer half of the potato slices at the bottom, creating an even base. Spread half of the sour cream over the potatoes and sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese on top. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, sour cream, and cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This final step gives the top a golden-brown, crispy finish that’s wonderfully satisfying. Before serving, garnish with chopped chives for a pop of color and extra flavor.