Traditional Cheesy Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any gathering or cozy family dinner. With layers of tender potatoes, melted cheese, and a creamy sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Russet potatoes are the star of the show, offering a sturdy texture that holds up well to baking. They're a great choice for absorbing the creamy sauce. Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the mild potatoes beautifully. The sour cream gives the sauce a slight tang and extra creaminess. Whole milk helps thin the sauce, making it silky smooth. Unsalted butter brings richness and helps blend the flavors together. Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder provide the essential seasoning to enhance the overall flavor. Finally, chives add a fresh, herbal kick that brightens up the dish just before serving.
These cheesy potatoes pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a protein like roasted chicken or grilled steak. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a hearty mushroom stew or a vegetable medley.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives you time to prepare everything while the oven heats up. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish, which will prevent the potatoes from sticking and make for easy cleanup later.
Peel your russet potatoes, then slice them thinly—aim for about 1/8 inch thick. Consistent slicing helps them cook evenly, so if you have a mandoline, now's the time to use it.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, stir in the milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. This mixture will form the creamy base that's key to the dish’s success.
Layer half of your sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of your milk mixture over these potatoes, ensuring they're well covered. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. This layering ensures every bite is flavorful.
Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, milk mixture, and cheddar cheese. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and encourage the potatoes to cook through.
Bake in your preheated oven for 45 minutes. This initial baking time allows the potatoes to soften and start absorbing the flavors. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This final bake allows the cheese to get bubbly and develop that irresistible golden brown crust.
Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the layers set and makes serving easier. Just before serving, garnish with the chopped chives for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Share