Preparing the Potatoes
Peel and slice potatoes into ⅛-inch thick rounds
Optional: blanch slices in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then drain and pat dry
Making the Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat
Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes until lightly golden
Gradually whisk in warm milk and heavy cream; simmer until slightly thickened
Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg
Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup Gruyère and ¼ cup Parmesan until melted and smooth
Assembling the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish
Layer half of the potato slices in the dish
Pour half of the cheese sauce over potatoes
Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce
Adding Topping
Combine bread crumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan
Sprinkle evenly over the top; optionally add extra Gruyère
Baking
Cover casserole with foil and bake 25 minutes
Remove foil and bake 20–25 minutes more until golden and bubbly
Let rest 10 minutes before serving