A casserole with potatoes is a hearty and versatile dish that can be customized with various ingredients and flavors. Here’s a classic recipe for a comforting potato casserole that’s perfect as a side dish or even a main course:
Classic Potato Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or milk
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, about 1/8-inch thick. You can use a mandoline slicer for even slices.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream, heavy cream, melted butter, olive oil, dried thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Layer the Casserole:
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar size casserole dish.
- Spread a layer of potato slices in the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle with some of the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Spoon a portion of the cream mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle with some of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers, ending with the cream mixture on top.
5. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs (Optional):
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- If using breadcrumbs, mix them with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the casserole for a crunchy topping.
6. Bake:
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Variations:
- Bacon and Onion: Add cooked bacon bits and caramelized onions to the layers for extra flavor.
- Vegetable Casserole: Mix in vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the potatoes.
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream mixture for a spicy twist.
This potato casserole is perfect for serving alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a hearty standalone dish. Enjoy!
