Begin by peeling and chopping 6 potatoes and put them into a greased (with butter) casserole.

To make the cream sauce:

Melt 4 tbsp butter in large saucepan or skillet add salt.  Cook on stovetop over medium heat until butter melts. Add flour.  Cook flour 2-3 more minutes. Add 2 cups half & half. Cook until thickened.  If the sauce is too thick to pour add 1/4 cup milk to thin.

Pour cream sauce over the potatoes.

Bake 400 for 45-55 minutes uncovered. Potatoes will be soft and top will be brown and bubbly when it’s done.

Top with grated cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking if desired.