Creamy and flavorful potatoes au gratin with a twist of fennel and bacon

This recipe takes the classic potatoes au gratin to the next level by adding fennel for a mild anise flavor and bacon for a smoky crunch. The creamy and cheesy layers of potatoes make this dish perfect for special occasions or family dinners.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish.
2. Layer half of the potatoes in the bottom of the dish, followed by half of the fennel, bacon, and cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, fennel, bacon, and cheese.
4. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and garlic until hot but not boiling. Pour over the potato mixture.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.

Interesting Facts