Step 1: Prep
Heat oven to 375°F
Butter a 9×13 baking dish
Slice potatoes 1/8-inch thin (a mandoline makes this easier)
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat
Add garlic and cook about 30 seconds
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute
Slowly whisk in milk and cream
Simmer until thick enough to coat a spoon (about 3–4 minutes)
Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme
Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Gruyère until smooth
This sauce is the heart of the recipe — creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
Step 3: Assemble
Layer half the potatoes in the dish
Pour over half the sauce and gently press down
Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce
Sprinkle Parmesan on top if using
Step 4: Bake
Cover tightly with foil and bake 45 minutes
Uncover and bake 25–30 more minutes until golden and bubbly
Let rest 10–15 minutes before serving (this helps it set!)