Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, your oven is ready to work its magic once your dish is assembled.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- While the oven is heating, take your russet potatoes and peel them. It may seem tedious, but I promise it’s worth it. Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the potatoes into even rounds about ¼ inch thick. Place the slices in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
- Next, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add in the sliced yellow onion and sauté until they’re translucent and soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen, getting you even more excited about this dish.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
- Time to make the cheese sauce! In the same skillet, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the whole milk, stirring continuously to break up any lumps. Your goal here is a smooth, bubbly mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Then, mix in the salt, smoked paprika, Dijon mustard, and half of the grated cheese—reserve the other half for topping.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of the potato slices. Pour a portion of that delicious cheese sauce over the potatoes. Keep layering until all potatoes and sauce have been used. This should create a beautiful cascade of flavors.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of your creation. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can add a little extra paprika for color and flavor.
Step 7: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. It’s best to let this cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth.
- Russet Potatoes: The starchiness is perfect for creaminess.
- Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich flavor while allowing you to control the salt content.
- All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the sauce.
- Kosher Salt: Essential for flavor enhancement.
- Whole Milk: Gives the sauce creaminess—don’t skimp on this!
- Mild Cheddar Cheese: The classic choice; its creaminess works perfectly.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness.
- Dijon Mustard: Offers a hint of tang that brightens the dish.
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: Complements the flavors wonderfully.
