Creamy Pour-Over Potato Casserole
Thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a creamy, garlicky sauce until tender and bubbling, then finished with golden melted cheese. It’s the kind of cozy side dish that can easily become the star of the table.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 2½ lb (1.1 kg) potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Creamy Pour-Over
- 1½ cups heavy cream or half-and-half
- ½ cup milk
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch glass casserole dish.
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer. Scatter half of the onion over them, then repeat with the remaining potatoes and onion.
2. Make the Creamy Pour-Over
In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, melted butter, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the mixture slowly and evenly over the potatoes, making sure it reaches down between the slices.
3. Add the Cheese
Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top.
4. Finish Baking
Return the casserole to the oven uncovered for another 20–30 minutes, until the potatoes are completely tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
For a more browned top, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully.
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Potato Casserole
- Slice the potatoes as evenly as possible so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t skip covering the dish during the first part of baking; it helps the potatoes become tender.
- Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work especially well.
- For extra flavor, add a little grated Parmesan with the shredded cheese.
- Check the center with a knife before removing the casserole from the oven.
Easy Variations
Add cooked bacon, ham, mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions.
For a richer flavor, replace some of the milk with additional cream.
A pinch of rosemary, parsley, or red pepper flakes can also add a nice twist.
Serving Ideas
Serve alongside roast chicken, baked ham, meatloaf, grilled beef, or roasted vegetables.
It also makes a satisfying vegetarian main dish with a crisp green salad and warm bread.
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly hot.
Final Takeaway
This Creamy Pour-Over Potato Casserole is pure comfort food: tender potatoes, a silky garlic cream sauce, and a bubbling layer of melted cheese. It’s easy enough for a weeknight supper but cozy enough for a special family meal.
