Name: Creamy Diane Potato Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded Gruyère or cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Creamy Diane Potato Bake is a decadent and comforting side dish that combines tender sliced potatoes with a rich, creamy sauce flavored with garlic, herbs, and a hint of cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or any occasion where you want a warm, satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with meat, poultry, or vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This potato bake is creamy, flavorful, and easy to assemble. The sauce seeps into the potatoes as they bake, creating a luscious texture without being overly heavy. It’s versatile, making it easy to customize with your favorite herbs, cheeses, or even a protein addition. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that reheats well for leftovers.

Creamy Diane Potato Bake

Ingredients

2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet, peeled and thinly sliced)
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded Gruyere or cheddar cheese
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Sauté Aromatics: In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another 1 minute. Remove from heat.
Prepare Cream Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine heavy cream, milk, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, thyme, and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture.
Layer Potatoes: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle half of the Parmesan and Gruyere cheese over the top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheeses.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Serve: Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally garnish with chopped parsley or chives.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 6-8 servings and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Add Protein: Layer cooked sausage between the potato layers for a heartier dish.
Cheese Variations: Swap Gruyere with mozzarella, Fontina, or Swiss cheese for different flavors.
Herb Variations: Fresh rosemary, sage, or tarragon can be used instead of thyme.
Vegetable Add-ins: Thinly sliced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach can be layered with the potatoes for extra nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
Freezing: Freeze before baking in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding extra 10-15 minutes if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, Yukon Gold, Russet, or red potatoes all work well. Waxy potatoes hold their shape better.

Can I make it lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or reduce the cheese slightly.

Can I prepare individual portions?

Yes, use small ramekins to make personal-sized servings.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, thinly sliced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

How long will it last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it will last up to 4 days.

Can I freeze the baked dish?

Yes, but the texture is best if frozen before baking.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, use plant-based cream and cheese substitutes, and substitute butter with a vegan alternative.

How do I make the top extra crispy?

Remove the foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking and sprinkle extra cheese on top.

Can I add spices for extra flavor?

Yes, nutmeg, paprika, or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor of the creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Diane Potato Bake is a rich, comforting, and versatile side dish that elevates any meal. With its tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, it’s perfect for holidays, special dinners, or cozy weeknights. Its adaptability allows you to add herbs, proteins, or vegetables to make it uniquely yours, while leftovers reheat beautifully, making it both practical and indulgent.

Jane