Creamy Potato Bake (Easy, Affordable & Perfect for Christmas)

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 1 hour | Total: 1 hour 15 minutes | Serves: 6
Best For: Christmas sides, family dinners, bring-a-plate gatherings

An Easy, Budget-Friendly Side Dish Everyone Loves

Potato bake is one of those dishes that always brings comfort to the table. This version is intentionally simple — just potatoes, cream, garlic, and cheese — proving that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something truly delicious.

It’s the perfect side for Christmas lunch or any family meal, bringing warmth and familiarity to every plate. A dish made to share, to pass around, and to enjoy together.

Ingredients for Creamy Potato Bake

• 1.5 kg potatoes, thinly sliced

• 2 cups thickened cream

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 ½ cups grated cheese (tasty or mozzarella)

Optional:

• ½ teaspoon paprika for colour

• Extra cheese for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
   Heat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Prepare the potatoes
   Peel (optional) and thinly slice the potatoes. The thinner the slices, the creamier the bake.

3. Mix the cream
   In a bowl, combine the cream, garlic, salt, and pepper.

4. Layer the bake
   In a baking dish, layer the potatoes evenly. Pour over half the cream mixture and sprinkle with half the cheese. Repeat with remaining potatoes, cream, and cheese.

5. Bake until golden
   Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until golden and bubbling.

6. Rest and serve
   Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Helpful Tips

• Use a mandolin or food processor to slice potatoes evenly

• Add more cheese on top for a golden crust

• For firmer slices, reduce cream slightly; for creamier, add more

Why This Recipe Works

• Minimal ingredients

• Budget-friendly and easy to assemble

• Perfect as a Christmas or everyday side

• Comforting and popular with all ages

Explore More Family-Friendly Recipes

If you enjoyed this recipe, you may also love:

• Ultimate Easy Christmas Ham

• Simple Family-Friendly Chili

• One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken