Ingredients
Must-Have Potatoes
The key to a delicious dish like Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes is selecting the right ingredients.
Here are some must-have potatoes that will elevate your cheesy potatoes game:
- Russet Potatoes: These high-starch potatoes hold their shape well and yield a light, fluffy interior when cooked.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: With their buttery, yellow flesh, these potatoes add natural sweetness to the dish.
Now that you’ve selected your perfect potatoes, let’s talk about what else makes Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes so special:
These are just some of the must-have ingredients in Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes recipe. The combination of perfectly cooked potatoes, creamy cheese sauce, and savory flavors is sure to be a hit at any family gathering or special occasion!
34 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
The foundation of Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes Recipe lies in its essential ingredient, 34 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced.
These sliced potatoes serve as the base layer for this iconic dish, providing a rich source of carbohydrates, fiber, and several vital nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and folate. The combination of these properties contributes to maintaining healthy digestion, blood pressure levels, and overall well-being.
**Key Nutritional Contributions:**
- Potassium: Essential for heart health and maintaining normal blood pressure levels
- Vitamin C: Crucial for immune system function and skin health
- Folate: Vital for cell division, growth, and development during pregnancy
The process of peeling these potatoes involves removing their outer layers to expose a smoother surface area for cooking. This step is crucial in enhancing the texture and appearance of the final dish. The subsequent step of slicing each potato into thin rounds further contributes to a uniform presentation and facilitates even cooking.
**Preparation Tips:**
- Choose high-quality potatoes with minimal blemishes for better flavor and texture
- Peel the potatoes using a sharp vegetable peeler or a paring knife to minimize waste
- Slice each potato evenly to ensure consistent cooking times
- Rinse the sliced potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch and achieve crispier edges during frying
These carefully prepared ingredients form the foundation of Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes Recipe, allowing it to become a staple dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. The process of selecting, peeling, and slicing these 34 large potatoes is an essential step in creating this beloved recipe.
Other Essential Ingredients
When it comes to making Grandma’s signature Cheesy Potatoes, there are certain ingredients that take center stage and make all the difference in terms of flavor and texture.
Main Ingredients: This recipe calls for high-quality potatoes as the base ingredient. Look for potatoes with a high starch content, such as Russet or Idaho, to get that light and fluffy interior.
Another essential component is butter, which adds richness and a subtle nutty flavor. Choose a good quality unsalted butter for this recipe.
The crowning glory of Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes is the cheese – specifically, a blend of sharp cheddar, creamy Monterey Jack, and tangy Parmesan. Use a mix of these cheeses to achieve an unbeatable balance of flavors.
Onions add a sweet and savory flavor to this dish. Choose yellow onions for their mellow sweetness or red onions for a pop of color and pungency.
Salt and pepper, the ultimate seasoning duo, play a crucial role in enhancing the overall taste experience. Use freshly ground black pepper and high-quality salt, such as flaky sea salt, to elevate the flavors.
Other key ingredients include milk, which adds moisture and helps bind the potatoes together; fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of freshness; and a sprinkle of paprika for smokiness.
The finishing touch is always a pinch of love – a dash of warmth, care, and attention to detail that only a grandmother’s hands can impart.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
The first essential ingredient in Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes recipe is 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, and it’s crucial that this butter be softened to achieve the perfect melting point.
When working with butter, especially for baking or cooking dishes like cheesy potatoes, it’s vital to understand its state. Softened butter refers to a temperature range where the butter is still firm but pliable to touch, making it easier to cream and mix with other ingredients.
This softened state of butter enables it to combine smoothly with the grated cheese and other seasonings in Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes recipe, creating a rich, creamy sauce that coats the potatoes perfectly.
The use of unsalted butter instead of salted is deliberate. Salted butter contains added sodium chloride (salt) that can affect the flavor balance of the dish. Unsalted butter, on the other hand, allows for precise control over the amount of salt in the recipe.
In the context of Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes Recipe, the 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter serves as a base for the cheesy sauce. When melted, it binds with the cheese and potatoes to create a deliciously rich, comforting dish that’s sure to please any family gathering.
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
The star ingredient of this beloved recipe is the one-cup serving of grated cheddar cheese, a crucial component that elevates the dish from humble spuds to a rich and indulgent treat.
Grated cheddar cheese adds a depth of flavor to Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes Recipe that cannot be replicated by other types of cheese or even without it altogether.
The sharpness and tanginess of cheddar cheese provide a delightful contrast to the natural sweetness of the potatoes, creating a harmonious balance of flavors in each bite.
The grated texture also plays an important role in this recipe, as it allows the cheese to melt evenly throughout the dish and cling to the tender potatoes perfectly.
When choosing cheddar cheese for this recipe, consider opting for a sharp or extra-sharp variety to bring out the most flavor, but if you prefer a milder taste, mild cheddar works well too.
Keep in mind that cheddar cheese can be quite potent, so it’s essential to taste and adjust the seasoning accordingly as you go, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors for your taste buds.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in the adaptability of ingredients; feel free to experiment with different types and combinations of cheese to find your favorite variation on Grandma’s classic Cheesy Potatoes Recipe.
1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella cheese is a type of Italian cheese that is commonly used as a topping for pizzas and pastas, but it can also be used to add flavor and creaminess to baked potatoes.
In this recipe, 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese is called for, which is a relatively small amount compared to other types of cheese like cheddar or parmesan.
Grated mozzarella has a mild, milky flavor that pairs well with the earthy sweetness of potatoes and adds depth to the dish without overpowering it.
The grated texture also allows the cheese to melt easily and evenly, coating the potatoes in a smooth, creamy sauce.
When using mozzarella cheese in this recipe, it’s best to use a high-quality brand that has not been pre-shredded or packaged with anti-caking agents, which can affect the melting properties of the cheese.
In addition to adding flavor and texture, mozzarella cheese also helps to bind the ingredients together, making it an essential component of this recipe.
The key is to use just the right amount of cheese – too little and the potatoes may be dry, too much and they can become overwhelming and greasy.
Salt and pepper to taste
The foundation of any delicious dish lies in its ingredients, and Grandma’s Cheesy Potates recipe is no exception. Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to bring this comforting classic to life:
- 4-6 medium-sized potatoes
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and parmesan)
- 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional)
The salt and pepper “to taste” instruction might seem vague, but trust us – it’s a crucial component of the recipe’s flavor profile. Here’s why:
- Salt enhances the natural sweetness in potatoes and balances the richness of the cheese.
- Pepper adds a subtle depth to the dish without overpowering other flavors. A gentle sprinkle is all you need!
When it comes to seasoning, the key is balance. Grandma’s secret lies in using high-quality ingredients and adjusting the salt and pepper levels to suit your taste preferences. So don’t be shy – add a pinch of this, a dash of that, and taste as you go. Your Cheesy Potatoes will be all the better for it!
Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor
The secret to taking Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes recipe to the next level lies in incorporating a variety of fresh herbs that add an explosion of flavor with every bite. The key is to choose herbs that complement the richness of cheese and potatoes, while also adding a hint of freshness.
One herb that pairs particularly well with cheesy potatoes is parsley. This classic choice adds a bright, green flavor that cuts through the creaminess of the dish. Simply chop up some fresh parsley leaves and sprinkle them over the top of the potatoes before baking for an instant flavor boost.
Anchoring to a more savory direction, rosemary takes center stage as the perfect accompaniment to cheesy potatoes. The piney aroma of this herb creates a delightful contrast to the rich, melted cheese and the comforting warmth of baked potatoes. To incorporate rosemary into your dish, chop up some fresh sprigs and mix them in with the grated cheese for an added depth of flavor.
Another aromatic herb that makes its way into Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes is thyme. The slightly minty undertone in this herb perfectly complements the bold flavors of potatoes and cheese, making it a winning combination. Simply sprinkle some chopped fresh thyme leaves over the top of the potatoes or mix it in with the cheese for an added layer of flavor.
Last but not least, consider adding a pinch of oregano to your cheesy potato mix. This earthy herb adds a slightly pungent taste that pairs surprisingly well with the savory flavors of potatoes and cheese. Simply sprinkle some dried or chopped fresh oregano leaves over the top of the potatoes before baking for an added layer of flavor.
With these four herbs at your disposal, you can create a flavor profile that elevates Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes recipe to new heights. By incorporating parsley, rosemary, thyme, and oregano into your dish, you’ll add layers of flavor that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
So next time you’re making Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes, be sure to sprinkle in some fresh herbs for an added layer of flavor. Your taste buds will thank you, and your family and friends are sure to beg for more!
Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
The final touches to this creamy and delicious dish come from adding some chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for garnish, but only if desired. This optional addition provides a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor that complements the rich cheesy potatoes.
When it comes to using parsley or chives in your cooking, it’s worth noting that both herbs have different uses in terms of taste and presentation. Parsley is a popular choice for its fresh green flavor and tender texture, while chives add a mild oniony taste and a delicate crunch to dishes.
When choosing between the two, consider the overall character you want your Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes Recipe to have. If you prefer a more classic, comforting dish with a bright pop of color, parsley might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you want to add a slightly savory element and a touch of oniony goodness, chives are an excellent choice.
Before chopping your herbs, make sure they’re fresh and at their peak flavor. You can tell this by checking for a vibrant color and a slight fragrance when you sniff them. If the herbs have lost their potency or are wilted, it’s best to choose some fresh ones instead.
To chop your parsley or chives efficiently, use a sharp knife and hold the herb firmly in place with one hand while chopping with the other. This will ensure even-sized pieces that don’t break down too quickly when added to your cheesy potatoes.
Finally, be mindful of how much you’re adding as a garnish – a little goes a long way! Too many chopped herbs can overpower the dish and make it unappetizing. So start with a small amount and adjust to taste for the perfect balance of flavors in your Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes Recipe.
Cooking the Perfect Cheesy Potatoes
Potato Preparation
Cooking the perfect cheesy potatoes is a task that requires some finesse, but with the right techniques and ingredients, you can create a dish that will impress even the pickiest of eaters.
Here are the steps to follow to make Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes Recipe:
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Select high-quality potatoes for the best results. Look for potatoes that are heavy for their size and have a smooth, even skin.
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Scrub the potatoes clean under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a vegetable brush if necessary to get into all the nooks and crannies.
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Poke some holes in the potatoes using a fork, making sure not to pierce too deeply as you want them to retain their shape during cooking.
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Choose your desired cooking method: baking or boiling. If boiling, place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
Once cooked, drain the potatoes thoroughly if they’ve been boiled, or remove from oven if baked. The next step is crucial: preparing them for cheesy goodness!
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Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise using a sharp knife or kitchen shears.
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Use a fork to fluff out any excess starch and create a slightly rough texture on the surface of each potato half. This will help them hold onto cheese sauce better.
Now it’s time for the best part: adding the cheesy goodness! Follow these steps:
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Melt butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add all-purpose flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes or until it reaches a light golden color.
Next, slowly pour in milk while continuously whisking the mixture to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
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Add grated cheddar cheese to the saucepan and stir constantly until melted and smooth, ensuring there are no clumps or lumpy bits.
Now assemble your cheesy potatoes by placing each potato half onto a serving dish. Spoon some of that glorious cheesy goodness over each potato half, making sure they’re evenly coated.
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Add any additional toppings you desire: chopped scallions or chives for a fresh touch, crispy bacon bits for added crunch, or shredded extra cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Finally, serve your Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes hot and enjoy the rave reviews!
Toss potato slices with 1/4 cup butter to coat, until golden brown
To cook the perfect cheesy potatoes, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, you can begin preparing the potatoes.
For this recipe, you’ll need 2-3 large potatoes, depending on their size. Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. You should end up with around 12-15 slices per potato.
Next, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the melted butter and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour. Stir the mixture until it’s well combined and the cheese is melted.
In a separate pan, toss the potato slices with 1/4 cup of butter to coat evenly. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Once the potatoes are cooked, place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spoon the cheese sauce over the top of the potatoes, making sure to cover them evenly.
Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Serve the cheesy potatoes hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Enjoy!
**Tips:**
* To ensure the potatoes are cooked evenly, try to slice them into uniform rounds.
* If you want a crisper topping, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
* You can adjust the amount of cheese and butter to your liking, but this recipe makes a classic and creamy cheesy potato dish.
**Variations:**
* Add some diced ham or cooked bacon to give the potatoes a smoky flavor.
* Mix in some chopped scallions or chives for added flavor.
* Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, for a unique taste.
Assembly and Baking
To cook the perfect cheesy potatoes using Grandma’s recipe, you’ll need to start with a few simple ingredients including 3-4 large potatoes, 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half, 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, salt and pepper to taste, and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish.
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler and cut them into large chunks. Rinse the potato pieces in cold water to remove any excess starch and pat dry with paper towels.
Place the potato chunks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil and drizzle with 1/2 of the unsalted butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then toss gently to distribute evenly.
Cook the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the cheese sauce by combining the milk or half-and-half, grated cheddar cheese, and grated mozzarella cheese in a saucepan over medium heat.
Stir constantly as the cheese sauce comes together and melts, ensuring it doesn’t burn or stick to the bottom of the pan. Once smooth and creamy, remove from heat and set aside.
Once the potatoes have cooked through, remove them from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before mashing or assembling with the cheesy sauce. You can choose to mash the potatoes in a bowl with a potato masher or blend in a food processor until smooth for an ultra-smooth consistency.
To assemble the cheesy potatoes, transfer the mashed potatoes to a casserole dish and spoon the prepared cheese sauce over the top. If desired, add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top of the cheese for garnish before baking in the preheated oven for an additional 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
After about 15 minutes, check to see if the cheesy potatoes are golden and bubbly around the edges. If needed, rotate the casserole dish in the oven for even browning or cover with aluminum foil to prevent overcooking the top layer. Once done, carefully remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked cheesy potatoes hot and fresh out of the oven!
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange potatoes in an overlapping pattern
To cook the perfect _Cheesy Potatoes_ , you’ll need to start by preparing the ingredients. For this recipe, we’ll be using 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced into 1/2 inch thick rounds.
Next, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). While that’s warming up, let’s move on to the _greasing_ of the baking dish. Use a small amount of margarine or butter to lightly coat the inside of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will help prevent the potatoes from sticking and make them easier to remove once they’re done.
Now it’s time to arrange the _potatoes_ in an overlapping pattern in the prepared baking dish. Start by creating a layer of potatoes on the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping each other. You can use about half of the sliced potatoes for this initial layer.
Once you’ve created the first layer, sprinkle some _melted butter_ or olive oil over the top to help bring out the flavors. Then, add a layer of your favorite _Cheese_ , such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of both. You can also sprinkle some chopped herbs like parsley or chives over the top for added flavor.
Repeat this process of layering potatoes, _melted butter_ , and cheese until you’ve used up all the sliced potatoes. Finish with a layer of cheese on top to give it that golden-brown color when it’s done.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the _potatoes_ are tender.
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your perfectly cooked _Cheesy Potatoes_ !
Pour remaining butter over the top of the potatoes and sprinkle with cheese mixture
To cook the perfect cheesy potatoes, you’ll need to follow a few simple steps.
Ingredients:
You will need the following ingredients for Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes Recipe:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Here’s how you can cook the perfect cheesy potatoes:
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Cook sliced potatoes in a large saucepan of boiling salted water for about 5 minutes, or until they are slightly tender. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
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In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a smooth paste (roux).
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Remove the roux from the heat and slowly add the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is well combined.
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Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well.
Assembling the Cheesy Potatoes:
Here’s how you can put everything together:
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Pour remaining butter over the top of potatoes in a greased baking dish.
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Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the potatoes.
Final Touches:
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
This classic cheesy potato recipe is sure to become a favorite in your family!
Serving Suggestions
Cooking the perfect cheesy potatoes is a task that requires some finesse, but don’t worry, with this recipe and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to creating a dish that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients:
You’ll need the following ingredients to make Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes Recipe:
- 4-6 large potatoes, peeled
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
Here’s how you can cook the perfect cheesy potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the peeled potatoes into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter, grated cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir until well combined.
- Add the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture and stir until smooth.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the potatoes and toss until they’re evenly coated.
- Transfer the potatoes to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
Serving Suggestions:
Here are some delicious ways to serve your cheesy potatoes:
- Brown them in a skillet with some oil and serve as a side dish or appetizer.
- Add some cooked bacon, diced ham, or chopped scallions on top for added flavor and texture.
- Use them as a topping for a baked potato or a cheesy soup.
- Serve with a green salad, a protein of your choice, and some crusty bread for a hearty dinner.
Enjoy your Grandma’s Cheesy Potatoes Recipe!
Allow to rest for 1015 minutes before serving, garnished with chopped herbs if desired
Cooking the perfect cheesy potatoes requires a combination of simple ingredients, careful preparation, and precise cooking techniques.
Grandma’s Secret to Success
- Select high-quality potatoes that are high in starch. These will yield a creamy interior and crispy exterior when cooked correctly.
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and dry them with a clean towel or paper towels. This step is essential to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cooking process.
- Cut the potatoes into large chunks, about 1-2 inches in size. It’s essential to leave some skin on for extra flavor and texture.
Preparing the Cheese Mixture
The cheese mixture is the foundation of a perfect cheesy potato dish.
- Choose a mix of cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses for an excellent balance of flavors and textures. You can also add other types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat and then add flour to create a roux, stirring constantly.
- Add milk gradually, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Be careful not to let it boil or it will become grainy.
Cooking the Potatoes
Once you’ve prepared the cheese mixture, it’s time to cook the potatoes.
- In a large saucepan, bring the potatoes and enough cold water to cover them to a boil over high heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until they’re slightly tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes in a colander under running water to remove excess starch. This step is crucial to prevent the potatoes from becoming sticky and clumpy during cooking.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the cheese mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired consistency.
Assembling the Cheesy Potatoes
The final step is to assemble the cheesy potatoes.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked potatoes in an even layer.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Add the remaining potatoes on top and cover with additional cheese if desired.
Tips for Perfection
- Let the cheesy potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to set properly.
- Garnish with chopped herbs such as chives, parsley or rosemary if desired to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
With these tips and techniques, you’ll be on your way to creating Grandma’s perfect cheesy potatoes that will become a family favorite for generations to come!
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