Cost Breakdown

Critical Success Points

• • Microwave the potatoes just until 80 % cooked – overcooking makes them mushy.
• • Thicken the cream sauce to a coat‑the‑back‑of‑a‑spoon consistency; under‑thickened sauce will be runny after baking.
• • Cover the potatoes with enough sauce before baking to prevent drying.
• • Watch the final mozzarella bake to achieve a golden crust without burning.

Safety Warnings

• • The oven and baking dish will be extremely hot – use oven mitts.
• • Steam from the microwave dish can cause burns; open the cover away from your face.
• • Hot cream sauce can splatter – stir gently and keep the pot away from the edge of the stove.