Potato and cheese casserole with herbs

Here’s a flavorful Potato and Cheese Casserole with Herbs recipe that’s creamy, cheesy, and aromatic with fresh herbs. It’s perfect as a side dish or a hearty main course!

Ingredients:

• 6 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
• 1/2 tsp dried basil (optional)
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
• 1 tbsp melted butter (optional, for topping)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.

2. Prepare the creamy sauce:

   • In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth.
   • Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the chopped onion and garlic.
   • Add the fresh thyme, rosemary, basil (if using), paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Layer the casserole:

   • Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
   • Season the potato layer with a little salt and pepper.
   • Pour half of the creamy sauce mixture over the potatoes.
   • Add the remaining potato slices on top, seasoning again with salt and pepper.
   • Pour the remaining creamy sauce evenly over the top, spreading it out with a spatula.

4. Top with cheese and breadcrumbs (optional):

   • Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.
   • If using, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese for a crunchy topping.

5. Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 40-45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.

6. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

This Potato and Cheese Casserole with Herbs is a comforting and flavorful dish, with the herbs adding a fresh and aromatic touch. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. Enjoy!