Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

- Slice the potatoes thinly, about 3 mm thick, using a mandoline or sharp knife for even, delicate slices.

- Grease a baking dish with butter or a splash of olive oil, ensuring all sides are coated to prevent sticking.

- Arrange a layer of potato slices in the dish, overlapping slightly to cover the bottom evenly. Sprinkle lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

- Repeat layering with remaining slices, seasoning each layer as you go, until the dish is filled.

- In a saucepan, warm the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer gently, then stir in most of the grated cheese, saving some for the topping. Mix until smooth and velvety.

- Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes, making sure all slices are covered.

- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the mixture is bubbling around the edges.

- Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

- Take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes; this allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving easier.

- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired, then scoop and serve hot, enjoying the creamy, crispy textures and cheesy aroma.

Notes
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for different flavor profiles. The dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad.
