Name: Creamy Potato Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients: 900g potatoes; 2 cups heavy cream; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

Nothing says comfort food quite like a bubbling, golden tray of creamy potato bake. With layers of thinly sliced potatoes drenched in a velvety garlic-infused cream sauce and finished with a blanket of melted cheese, this dish turns simple ingredients into something irresistibly cozy. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty side for a Sunday roast or making it the star of a weeknight dinner, its rich flavor and satisfying texture never disappoint.

This creamy potato bake is a timeless classic that brings everyone back to the table for seconds. The magic lies in its simplicity: real ingredients, baked slowly until the potatoes become fork-tender and the top turns deliciously crispy. It also stores well, making leftovers something to look forward to.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Potato Bake

This potato bake is more than just creamy and cheesy; it’s full of comfort and warmth. The garlic adds a subtle depth, while the layering ensures every bite is rich and flavorful. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can pair with almost any main course, and it’s also incredibly easy to prep ahead of time. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or when you just want to indulge in something homemade and hearty.

What Kind of Potatoes Work Best for Creamy Potato Bake?

For the creamiest results, starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal. They absorb the sauce beautifully and become meltingly tender in the oven. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes, as they tend to hold their shape too firmly and don’t soak up the flavor as well. If you want that melt-in-your-mouth texture, stick with high-starch varieties.

Ingredients for the Creamy Potato Bake

A simple dish like this depends heavily on the quality and combination of its ingredients. Each one plays a specific role in creating that perfect bite: creamy, savory, and satisfying.

Potatoes
Heavy cream
Garlic
Onion
Butter
Salt and pepper
Fresh thyme
Shredded cheese
Parmesan cheese

How To Make the Creamy Potato Bake

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8 inch thick). Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter your baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme, and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Layer the Dish

Arrange a layer of potatoes in the bottom of your dish. Spoon over some of the cream mixture and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Repeat the layering until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a generous topping of both cheeses.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then uncover and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve and Store Your Creamy Potato Bake

This creamy potato bake is rich enough to stand on its own but also versatile enough to serve alongside meat, poultry, or even a big salad. It comfortably feeds 6 to 8 people, depending on portion size. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to bring back the silky texture.

What to Serve With Creamy Potato Bake?

Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken

Tender roast chicken with herby skin is the perfect protein to balance the richness of the bake.

Grilled Sausages

A quick and satisfying pairing that brings savory balance and a hint of spice.

Green Beans Almondine

Light and crisp green beans with toasted almonds add freshness and crunch.

Lemon Dill Salmon

Bright, citrusy salmon offers a delicious contrast to the creamy potatoes.

Apple Walnut Salad

A crisp, tangy salad can cut through the richness and refresh your palate.

Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms cooked in garlic butter echo the flavors in the bake.

Roasted Asparagus

An elegant and simple side that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture.

Glazed Ham

If you’re serving this for a holiday meal, ham makes a sweet and salty main that’s hard to beat.

Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If this creamy potato bake has you craving more, here are some other irresistible dishes to try next:

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes for a bold twist on a classic comfort dish.
The Best Cauliflower Cheese Recipe if you’re looking for a veggie-packed alternative.
Roasted Zucchini and Squash for a lighter, colorful side.
No Peek Chicken Casserole when you want a no-fuss main dish to go with it.
Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce if you want to double down on the creamy garlic goodness.

Save This Recipe For Later

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Let me know how yours turned out! Did you go classic or sneak in some bacon or caramelized onions? I always love hearing your takes and tweaks.

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Conclusion

Creamy potato bake is the ultimate cozy dish, full of flavor and simplicity. It’s made for family tables, lazy Sundays, and second helpings. Whether you keep it traditional or make it your own, one thing is certain: it won’t last long once it’s out of the oven.