Introduction
This dish is a rich, comforting potato casserole made with tender sliced potatoes baked in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. It is perfect as a side dish for meat, chicken, or fish, and works beautifully for family dinners or special occasions. The sauce seeps into the potatoes while baking, creating a soft, flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients
Potatoes
1.5 kg potatoes, peeled and sliced into thick rounds
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Creamy Garlic Sauce
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups milk (warm)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian herbs
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Optional: chopped fresh parsley for topping
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Grease a baking dish lightly with oil or butter.
Place sliced potatoes in the dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently and spread evenly.
Make the Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to remove raw taste.
Gradually add warm milk while whisking continuously until smooth and thickened.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, herbs, salt, and pepper. Cook until cheese melts and sauce becomes creamy.
Assemble
Pour the hot creamy sauce evenly over the potatoes.
Tap the dish gently so sauce settles between layers.
Optional: sprinkle extra Parmesan on top.
Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 15 to 20 minutes until potatoes are tender and top is lightly golden.
Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Methods
Boiling Method (optional)
Parboil potatoes for 5 minutes before baking for faster cooking.
Layering Method
Potatoes can be layered in two levels with sauce between layers for deeper flavor.
History
Creamy baked potatoes originate from European gratin-style dishes, especially French cuisine. Over time, garlic and Parmesan were added in Italian-influenced versions, making it richer and more aromatic.
Benefits
Potatoes provide energy and potassium.
Garlic supports immunity.
Dairy adds calcium and protein.
Herbs improve digestion and aroma.
Formation
During baking, starch from potatoes thickens the sauce naturally. Cheese melts and binds the dish into a creamy structure with a golden top layer.
Nutrition (approx per serving)
Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Protein: 9 g
Fat: 16 g
Calcium: 20% daily value
Potassium: 18% daily value
Conclusion
This creamy garlic Parmesan potato bake is a simple but luxurious dish that turns basic potatoes into a rich comfort food. It pairs perfectly with roasted meats or grilled chicken and is ideal for gatherings.
For Lovers
Potato lovers enjoy this recipe because it combines soft texture, creamy sauce, and cheesy flavor in every bite. Garlic lovers appreciate the deep aroma, while cheese lovers enjoy the smooth, rich finish.