A cherished meal in our family! My kids loved it and finished the leftovers the next day!

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.

2. Create the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and minced garlic. Warm the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to steam, being careful not to let it boil. Remove from heat.

3. Build the Layers: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly. Season generously with salt and pepper. Sprinkle half of the crumbled bacon and half of the mixed cheeses over the potatoes. Gently pour half of the warm cream mixture evenly over the top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, bacon, and cheese. Finish by pouring the rest of the cream mixture over everything.

4. Bake to Perfection: Dot the top of the gratin with small pieces of the remaining butter. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the potatoes are fork-tender.

5. Serve: Allow the gratin to rest for 5-10 minutes before sprinkling with fresh parsley or chives and serving.