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### **Instructions**:
#### 1. **Preheat the Oven**:
Start by preheating your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the gratin from sticking during baking.
#### 2. **Prepare the Cream Mixture**:
In a medium saucepan, melt the **butter** over medium heat. Once melted, add the **minced garlic** and sauté for about **1 minute** until fragrant. Then, add the **heavy cream**, **whole milk**, and **nutmeg** (if using) to the pan. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for about **5 minutes**, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
#### 3. **Assemble the Gratin**:
Layer the thinly sliced **potatoes** in the prepared baking dish, making sure they overlap slightly. After each layer, season with a pinch of **salt**, **pepper**, and a sprinkle of **fresh thyme**. Pour a portion of the creamy mixture over the potatoes, then sprinkle with a mix of **cheddar cheese** and **Parmesan cheese**.
Repeat this layering process, finishing with a final layer of potatoes, followed by the remaining cream mixture and the rest of the cheese. The cheese on top will form a delicious, golden crust during baking.
#### 4. **Bake the Gratin**:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about **40 minutes**. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional **20-25 minutes** until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and crispy. The potatoes should be fork-tender when pierced with a knife.
#### 5. **Garnish and Serve**:
Once your **Cheesy Potato Gratin** is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with **fresh parsley** for a pop of color and extra flavor.
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### **Serving Suggestions**:
This **Cheesy Potato Gratin** pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Here are a few ideas to make your meal complete:
– **Roast Chicken**: The creamy potatoes complement the crispy, golden skin of roasted chicken perfectly.
– **Steak**: Whether it’s a tender filet mignon or a hearty ribeye, this gratin makes an excellent side dish for steak.
– **Holiday Feasts**: Serve it alongside glazed ham or turkey for a festive, indulgent spread.
– **Green Vegetables**: Pair the gratin with a simple green vegetable, like steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach, to balance the richness of the potatoes.
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### **Tips for the Best Cheesy Potato Gratin**:
– **Use the Right Potatoes**: For the best texture, opt for **russet potatoes**, which are starchy and ideal for creating creamy layers in a gratin. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly waxier texture if you prefer.
– **Slice the Potatoes Thinly**: Thin, even slices will ensure the potatoes cook evenly and absorb the creamy mixture. Use a mandoline slicer if you have one, or carefully slice the potatoes by hand.
– **Don’t Skip the Resting Time**: Allow the gratin to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This gives it time to set, making it easier to cut and serve without losing all of its creamy filling.
– **Make It Ahead**: To save time, you can assemble the gratin a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven—add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
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### **Why This Recipe Works**:
This version of **Cheesy Potato Gratin** is perfect because it strikes the ideal balance between creamy and cheesy, with just the right amount of richness. The combination of **heavy cream**, **milk**, and **butter** creates a luscious, velvety sauce, while the mix of **cheddar** and **Parmesan** provides a perfect depth of flavor. The layering of thinly sliced potatoes ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the crispy top gives every bite that satisfying crunch.
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### **Conclusion**:
**The Best Cheesy Potato Gratin** is a dish that brings comfort and indulgence to the table. Its rich, creamy layers of potatoes and cheese are irresistible, and the simplicity of the ingredients ensures that it remains a timeless classic. Whether served as a side or as the main attraction, this gratin is sure to be a hit with anyone lucky enough to try it. So the next time you’re craving a delicious, comforting dish that’s easy to make yet full of flavor, turn to this cheesy potato gratin—you won’t be disappointed!
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