Creamy Winter Potato Casserole

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Creamy Winter Potato Casserole is a dish that embodies warmth, comfort, and indulgence. Perfect for cold evenings, this recipe transforms simple potatoes into a rich, hearty meal by layering them with a velvety sauce infused with herbs, garlic, and cream. The sauce seeps into the potatoes as they bake, creating a dish that is both tender and flavorful, with a golden crust on top that invites you to dig in.

This casserole is versatile—it can be served as a main dish with a side salad or as a comforting accompaniment to roasted meats. Its creamy texture and savory flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, while the preparation process is straightforward enough for everyday cooking yet elegant enough for special occasions.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

INSTRUCTION:

  1. Prepare the potatoes: Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes thinly. Arrange them in a greased glass casserole dish.
  2. Make the creamy sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth, forming a roux. Slowly pour in milk and cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
  3. Add flavor: Stir in onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Pour over potatoes: Carefully pour the creamy sauce over the sliced potatoes in the casserole dish, ensuring the sauce coats and seeps between the layers.
  5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
  6. Bake the casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
  7. Serve hot: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

SERVINGS:

This recipe yields 6 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

NOTE:

  • Flavor balance: Garlic and herbs infuse the sauce with depth, while the combination of mozzarella and Parmesan adds richness.
  • Texture tip: Slice potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain creaminess.
  • Presentation: Serve directly from the glass dish to showcase the layers. Garnish with parsley for a fresh touch.
  • Mindful preparation: Whisking the sauce continuously prevents lumps and ensures a smooth pour-over.
  • Serving ritual: Pair with crusty bread or a crisp salad for a complete winter meal.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Winter Potato Casserole is a dish that transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary. With its tender layers of potato, rich sauce, and golden cheese topping, it delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. It’s a recipe that celebrates the joy of home cooking, offering warmth and indulgence during the colder months.

Whether served as a centerpiece for a family supper or as a side dish at a festive gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to bring smiles and comfort to the table. Its creamy texture, savory flavor, and cozy appeal make it a timeless winter favorite.

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