A rich and satisfying dish, this Cheesy Potato and Chorizo Bake features layers of thinly sliced potatoes, smoky cured chorizo, and bubbling cheese, all bathed in a creamy garlic and herb sauce. Baked until golden and bubbling, this rustic casserole is the perfect comfort food—ideal as a main course or a flavorful side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the hearty appeal of potatoes with the bold, smoky flavor of chorizo, elevated by a creamy, herb-infused sauce and finished with melted cheese. It’s simple to assemble, crowd-pleasing, and can be made ahead. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to impress at a potluck, this bake offers warmth, texture, and flavor in every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1.5 lbs potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
6 oz cured chorizo, sliced
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup milk
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil for greasing

directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish (round or square) with olive oil.
In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Heat over low heat until warm, but do not bring to a boil. Set aside.
Layer the bottom of the greased dish with a portion of the sliced potatoes. Add a few slices of chorizo over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Repeat the layers—potatoes, chorizo, cheese—until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Evenly pour the warmed cream mixture over the layered ingredients, allowing it to seep through the layers.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling and the potatoes are tender.
Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4–6 people.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy chorizo for extra heat.
Herb Twist: Swap oregano for thyme or rosemary for a different aromatic profile.
Cheese Blend: Use a mix of Gruyère and sharp cheddar for deeper flavor.
Vegetable Addition: Add thinly sliced onions or bell peppers for extra texture and taste.
Creamy Upgrade: Include a few tablespoons of cream cheese in the sauce for added richness.

storage/reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the texture may be softer. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape best, but russets will yield a softer, creamier texture.

Can I use raw chorizo?

Raw (uncooked) chorizo should be browned in a skillet before layering into the dish to ensure it cooks fully and doesn’t release too much oil.

Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you may leave the skins on if preferred for a rustic presentation.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

What other cheeses can I use?

Gruyère, cheddar, fontina, or Monterey Jack all work well. Choose based on your flavor preference.

How do I know when the bake is done?

The top should be golden and bubbly, and a knife should slide easily through the layers of potatoes.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chorizo or replace it with a vegetarian sausage or sautéed mushrooms.

What’s the best way to slice the potatoes?

Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin slices, which helps ensure uniform cooking.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich. A mix of milk and half-and-half is a good compromise.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve it alongside a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted chicken for a complete meal.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Potato and Chorizo Bake is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s easy to make and hard to resist. With its layers of tender potatoes, savory chorizo, and bubbling cheese, it’s perfect for cozy dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress without the fuss. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your home-cooked rotation.