Mashed Potato au Gratin

This spectacular mashed potato au gratin features my favorite potato side dish, buttery mashed potatoes, topped with my other favorite potato side dish, cheesy potatoes au gratin. This amazing potato side dish will impress your guests like few others. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded Gruyere or cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
• Fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. Prepare Potatoes:
   • Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. You can use a mandolin for even slices.
3. Make Cream Mixture:
   • In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
4. Layer Potatoes:
   • Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish.
5. Add Cream Mixture:
   • Pour a portion of the cream mixture over the layer of potatoes.
6. Sprinkle Cheese:
   • Sprinkle a layer of shredded Gruyere or cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
7. Repeat Layers:
   • Repeat the process, layering potatoes, cream mixture, and cheese until you've used all the potatoes. Finish with a layer of cheese on top.
8. Add Parmesan and Butter:
   • Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer and dot with small pieces of butter.
9. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the potatoes are tender.
10. Garnish and Serve:
    • If desired, garnish with fresh chives before serving.
11. Rest and Serve:
    • Allow the Mashed Potato au Gratin to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.