4 large potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar recommended, or mix with Gruyère or mozzarella)
2 cups whole milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking spray or a small amount of butter (for greasing dish)
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Thinly slice potatoes to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices.
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Stir in milk, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat.
Layer half the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared dish.
Sprinkle half the shredded cheese over the potatoes.
Pour half the garlic milk mixture evenly over the layer.
Repeat with remaining potatoes, cheese, and sauce.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
Let the dish cool for 10 minutes to allow the sauce to set.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.
Use Yukon Gold for creaminess or Russet for fluffiness.
To make it ahead, assemble the dish and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
For extra richness, substitute ½ cup of the milk with heavy cream.
Add-ins: Try chopped spinach, cooked turkey bacon, or caramelized onions for variety.
Make it gluten-free by thickening the sauce with cornstarch or gluten-free flour (if pre-thickening is needed).
Vegan version: Use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese.