Oven-Baked Cheese and Potato Bake with Chives

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the baking dish, ensuring they cover the entire surface.
3. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
4. Repeat the layers of potatoes and cheese until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
6. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
7. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
8. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the chopped chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Pour the chive sauce over the layered potatoes and cheese, making sure it is evenly distributed.
10. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
12. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

• Feel free to add other ingredients like bacon, diced onions, or garlic for added flavor and variation.
• For a crispy top, you can broil the dish for the last few minutes of baking.
• Serve the cheese and potato bake as a side dish with roasted meats or as a main course with a side salad.