Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter.
Step 2: Peel the potatoes and slice them into uniform, ⅛-inch thick rounds. A mandoline slicer is highly recommended for consistent thickness. Place the sliced potatoes in a large bowl of cold water to prevent discoloration and remove excess starch. Let them soak for at least 20 minutes.
Step 3: Finely dice the yellow onion and mince the garlic. Shred the sharp cheddar cheese and grate the Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Drain the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for preventing a watery sauce.
Step 5: Measure out all the remaining ingredients and have them ready to go. Mise en place makes the cooking process smoother and more efficient.