If you’re looking to wow your guests, family, or friends this Thanksgiving, look no further than this thinly sliced garlic cheese potato bake. It is so indulgent and flavorful it might even outshine the turkey. With thinly sliced potatoes, rich garlic-infused cream, and layers of bubbling cheese, this recipe is destined to become a holiday favorite.
Why it’s the Perfect Thanksgiving Side
- Simple but Elegant: The mandolin-sliced potatoes create a visually stunning dish with evenly baked, perfectly tender layers.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: Who doesn’t love the combination of cheese, garlic, and creamy potatoes?
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the night before and simply bake on the big day.
Ingredients ( Serves 6-8)
- 4-5 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Gruyère, & cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the baking dish
Directions to Prep and Assemble
Prep the Potatoes:
Using a mandolin or your knife, slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). Set aside.
Make the Garlic Cream:
In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Warm over low heat until fragrant and it just begins to simmer (do not boil).
Layer the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping them.
- Spoon a small amount of garlic cream over the potatoes, then sprinkle with cheese.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous cheese layer on top.
Baking
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender (broil setting)
Allow the dish to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set and make slicing easier.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Cheese: Gruyère adds a nutty flavor, while cheddar provides sharpness. Mix and match for a perfect balance and feel free to experiment!
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: This ensures clean, beautiful slices when served.
- For Extra Crispiness: Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on the top layer before baking.
Final Thoughts
This dish offers everything you want in a Thanksgiving side: comforting flavors, creamy textures, and a hint of indulgence. Plus, it pairs perfectly with turkey, ham, or even a vegetarian main course. Follow the steps correctly and you are guaranteed to get a show-stopping side dish that will impress all. Try it out and let me know how you like it!
