Introduction:
Scalloped potatoes are a rich and creamy dish made with thinly sliced potatoes, cheese, butter, and a variety of seasonings.
This comforting classic is perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or as a side dish to complement any main course.
The combination of tender potatoes and a luscious, cheesy sauce makes scalloped potatoes a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
4 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Prep Potatoes: Peel the potatoes (optional) and slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch thick) using a mandoline or sharp knife.
Make Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until bubbly but not browned. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and milk until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Assemble Layers: Place a layer of sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour a portion of the sauce over the potatoes and sprinkle with a little bit of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat layers, making sure to finish with a layer of sauce and top with the remaining cheese.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Description:
Scalloped potatoes are a luxurious dish featuring tender potato slices enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. The dish is baked to perfection, with the top becoming golden and crispy while the inside remains soft and velvety. The addition of cheese adds an extra layer of flavor, making it a comforting side dish suitable for any occasion.
Tips
Uniform Slicing: Ensure that the potatoes are sliced evenly for even cooking. A mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent thickness.
Cheese Variations: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can mix it up by adding Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish. Sprinkle some between the layers or add on top before baking.
Make Ahead: This dish can be made a day ahead. Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed before serving.
Make it Crispier: For a crispier top, add breadcrumbs to the final layer of cheese, or broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
Variations
Bacon Scalloped Potatoes: Add cooked and crumbled bacon between the layers for a smoky flavor.
Garlic Herb Scalloped Potatoes: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs to the sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Spicy Scalloped Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
Corrections
Consistency of Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, let it cook a little longer to thicken, or add a bit more flour. If it’s too thick, thin it out with more milk or cream.
Undercooked Potatoes: If your potatoes are still firm after baking, cover with foil and return to the oven for 10-15 more minutes.
Too Much Cheese: If the cheese is too heavy or greasy, try reducing the amount or use a lower-fat version of cheese.
Enjoy!
Now you’re ready to serve up a beautiful dish of scalloped potatoes. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness, and watch it disappear from your table! Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a family dinner, it’s sure to be a hit.