Name: Creamy Cheese and Potato Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Ingredients: 2.6 lbs floury potatoes (Maris Piper or Yukon Gold), peeled and thinly sliced; 2 medium onions, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 5 oz Gruyère cheese, grated; 5 oz mature cheddar cheese, grated; 1 1/4 cups heavy cream; 3.5 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)

If you’re on the lookout for a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, look no further than this creamy cheese and potato pie. Perfectly combining the earthiness of potatoes with the rich flavors of cheese, this pie is an ode to homestyle cooking that is sure to delight practically anyone at the dinner table. What’s perfect about this recipe is its adaptability; whether you’re in need of a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this creamy goodness will undoubtedly do the trick. A rich infusion of Gruyère and cheddar cheeses, coupled with the comforting texture of layered potatoes, makes every bite ethereal.

In under two hours, you can create a masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of European comfort food. Not only is this creamy pie straightforward to make, but it also appeals to vegetarians and cheese lovers alike. With minimal prep work and a blissful bake time that fills your kitchen with delectable aromas, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds — or even thirds! This creamy cheese and potato pie is more than just food; it’s an experience. Gather your loved ones and enjoy a slice, or two, of nostalgia and warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cheese and Potato Pie

Flavorful Layers: The combination of Gruyère and mature cheddar creates a deeply satisfying flavor that complements the creamy layers of potatoes.
Comforting Dish: This recipe embodies the essence of comfort food, making it perfect for crisp evenings or holiday gatherings.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
Versatility: You can easily customize the recipe with additional vegetables or meats for a heartier meal.
Ideal for Meal Prep: This creamy pie can be made ahead of time and reheated, allowing you to enjoy it whenever you crave a warm, cheesy meal.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To set yourself up for success in making this creamy cheese and potato pie, proper preparation of your kitchen space is essential. Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need floury potatoes like Maris Piper or Yukon Gold, onions, garlic, various cheeses, and cream. Measure all ingredients ahead of time to facilitate a seamless cooking process.

For your cooking tools, you will need a large saucepan for sautéing the onions and garlic, a sharp knife for slicing the potatoes, and an 8-cup ovenproof pie dish or casserole dish for baking. An aluminum foil cover will be important as well, contributing to even cooking. Consider using a spatula to help compress the layers as you construct your pie, ensuring that each slice is full of flavor.

Ingredients

2.6 lbs floury potatoes (Maris Piper or Yukon Gold), peeled and thinly sliced
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
5 oz Gruyère cheese, grated
5 oz mature cheddar cheese, grated
1 1/4 cups heavy cream
3.5 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start this flavor-packed adventure by preheating your oven to 375°F. Meanwhile, take your butter and let it melt in a large saucepan over medium heat. As the butter melts, warm aromas will begin to fill your kitchen. Add your thinly sliced onions and minced garlic, cooking them gently for about 6 to 8 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This step builds the foundation for your creamy filling. Keep an eye on them to avoid browning. Once done, remove it from the heat and set aside.

Step 2: Whisking the Creamy Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, Dijon mustard, freshly grated nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended. This creamy mixture is what elevates the potato pie, adding richness and depth of flavor. The nutmeg offers warm undertones that perfectly harmonize with the cheeses.

Step 3: Layering the Pie

Now for the fun part—layering! Take your prepared pie dish and lay out half of the potato slices in a slightly overlapping fashion. Make sure to cover the bottom entirely. Follow this by spooning half of the onion and garlic mixture on top. Then, sprinkle half of the Gruyère and cheddar cheeses to infuse cheesy goodness right into the layers. Repeat this layering process with the remaining ingredients, ensuring you finish with cheese on the top layer.

Step 4: Adding the Cream

Once you have built your savory layers, pour the whisked cream mixture evenly over the top. Use a spatula to gently press down to compact the layers slightly; this helps the filling meld together while cooking. Cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil, which will trap the steam and allow the potatoes to cook perfectly.

Step 5: Baking Indulgence

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the top becomes golden and the filling bubbles at the edges. The transformation from simple ingredients to a creamy, golden delight will be evident as you keep an eye out for that enticing final color. Once baked, let the dish rest for around 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the pie to set, making for easier slicing.

Variations

Protein: Incorporate shredded chicken or cooked bacon bits to add a savory twist.
Vegetables: Explore various veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or leeks to introduce additional textures and flavors.
Spices: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a hint of heat or smokiness.

Cooking Notes

Mix cheeses for deeper flavor—try blue cheese or mozzarella for a unique take.
This recipe can be made ahead and frozen; just extend baking time when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with homemade bread to scoop up the creamy filling.

Tips

Slice potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking throughout.
Don’t rush the resting phase; it’s essential for better slicing and serving.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 450
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 750mg

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix or swap cheeses based on your preferences. Just keep in mind the flavor profile.

Can I make this pie in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dish in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Is this dish gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free dijon mustard and check your cheese labels for additives, it can be made gluten-free!

Can I add meat to the recipe?

Of course! Cooked chicken or ham can be great additions for those who want a heartier meal.

Conclusion

This creamy cheese and potato pie is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy embrace in a dish. As one of the ultimate comfort foods, it brings together flavors and textures that create an experience rather than just dinner. By following the steps above, you’ll ensure a satisfying, delicious result that can be enjoyed any night of the week. We’d love to hear your thoughts—try it out and let us know how you modify the recipe for your tastes! Whether it’s with additional veggies, alternative cheeses, or a delightful side, your creative flair will only enhance this already incredible dish. Enjoy every baked slice!