Potato Gratin
1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened .
2 lbs potatoes, peeled & sliced 1/8-inch thick .
1/8 tsp ground black pepper .
1 pinch fresh grated nutmeg .
1 large garlic clove, peeled & smashed .
2 1/4 c half-and-half .
1 1/4 tsps table salt .
1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
Adjust oven rack to center position & heat oven to 350 degrees.
Rub bottom & sides of shallow baking dish with garlic.
Mince remaining garlic & set aside.
Once garlic in dish has dried, about 2 mins, spread dish with half the butter.
Bring half-and-half, potatoes, cayenne , & reserved garlic to boil in medium saucepan over medium-high heat, nutmeg, salt, stirring every once in awhile with wooden spoon Reduce heat & let simmer until liquid thickens, pepper, about 2 mins.
Pour potato mixture into prepared dish; shake dish or use fork to distribute potatoes evenly.
Gently press down potatoes until submerged in liquid; dot with remaining butter.
Bake until top is golden brown (basting once or twice during first 45 mins) about 1 hr 15 mins.
Let rest 5 mins & serve.
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