Introduction:
Scalloped potatoes are a classic, comforting dish that combines tender layers of potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, they are rich, savory, and delicious. This dish is great for holidays, family gatherings, or any time you’re craving a warm, hearty potato dish.
Ingredients:
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup milk
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Gruyère for extra flavor)
1 tbsp fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 medium onion, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Prepare potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into about 1/8-inch thick rounds. Set aside.
Make the sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic (and chopped onion, if using) and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the heavy cream and milk, and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Assemble the dish: Layer the sliced potatoes in the baking dish, overlapping them slightly. Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese, finishing with a layer of cheese on top. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top as well.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40-45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Rest: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Description:
Scalloped potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible. The potatoes become tender while the sauce envelops them in a rich, savory coating. The top gets golden and bubbly, creating a perfect contrast to the smooth, velvety layers underneath. Whether served as a side for a holiday roast or paired with a simple weeknight meal, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Tips:
Thin Slices: For the best texture, slice the potatoes thinly and evenly. A mandoline slicer works perfectly for this.
Cheese Variations: While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
Make Ahead: You can prepare scalloped potatoes a day ahead. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before cooking.
Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add cooked ham, bacon bits, or shredded rotisserie chicken between the layers of potatoes.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary add a wonderful depth of flavor. If using dried herbs, reduce the quantity by half.
Variations:
Garlic Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes: Add extra garlic and mix in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a more savory kick.
Bacon Scalloped Potatoes: Layer cooked and crumbled bacon in between the potato slices for a smoky flavor.
Vegetarian: Omit any meats and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a delicious vegetarian variation.
Corrections:
If your scalloped potatoes seem too runny, it might be because you didn’t let the sauce simmer long enough. Ensure the cream sauce thickens slightly before pouring it over the potatoes.
To avoid over-browning, cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking, especially if the top is browning too quickly.
Enjoy:
Serve your scalloped potatoes as a creamy and indulgent side to any meal. The rich flavors and comforting textures will make this dish a family favorite!