Best Scalloped Potatoes

Introduction

Scalloped potatoes have always been a staple in our family’s holiday meals. The rich, creamy layers of potatoes, cheese, and velvety sauce are the epitome of comfort food. I remember the first time I made this recipe—it was during a family dinner, and the moment I pulled the dish from the oven, the entire house filled with the mouthwatering aroma of cheese and garlic. My family couldn’t wait to dig in, and the dish was gone in a flash. The creamy texture, perfectly seasoned sauce, and golden, bubbling cheese on top made it a memorable meal. Since then, I’ve perfected my version, and it’s become a favorite at every gathering. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings smiles to everyone around the table.

Ingredients

• Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes: These potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes because their starchiness helps create that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Cheese: A combination of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan provides the perfect balance of richness and flavor.
• Heavy cream and milk: These two ingredients form the base of the sauce, adding a velvety, luxurious texture.
• Onions and garlic: These aromatics infuse the dish with savory depth and richness.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional spices like nutmeg or thyme add extra layers of flavor.

Instructions

1. Slice the Potatoes:

Start by peeling the potatoes, and then slice them thinly and evenly. Using a mandoline slicer is the best way to achieve uniform slices, which will ensure even cooking. Thin slices of potato absorb the creamy sauce perfectly, creating the signature soft texture of scalloped potatoes.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, and seasonings (salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg or thyme). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing it to infuse with the garlic and seasonings. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5–7 minutes, until the sauce is fragrant and slightly thickened. You want the sauce to be flavorful but not too thick at this point since it will continue to thicken as it bakes.

3. Layer the Potatoes:

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Start by layering the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Then, sprinkle some chopped onions and drizzle a bit of the prepared sauce over the potatoes. Add a generous amount of shredded cheese on top. Repeat the process, layering the potatoes, onions, sauce, and cheese until all the ingredients are used up. Finish with a final layer of cheese on top for that perfect, golden, cheesy crust.

4. Bake:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the potatoes at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes. The foil helps the potatoes cook evenly and ensures they become tender. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and add more shredded cheese on top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

5. Cool and Serve:

Once the scalloped potatoes are golden and bubbly, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes serving easier.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approx. 1/8th of the dish):

• Calories: 280-320 calories
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Preparation Time:

• Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 1 hour 10 minutes

How to Serve:

• As a side dish: Serve these rich and creamy scalloped potatoes as a side dish to complement roast meats, such as turkey, chicken, or beef.
• With a salad: Pair the scalloped potatoes with a fresh, light salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
• For holidays or special occasions: Scalloped potatoes make a wonderful addition to any holiday meal, from Thanksgiving to Christmas or Easter.
• As comfort food: On a chilly evening, serve these potatoes alongside a warm soup for a cozy meal.

Additional Tips:

1. Use starchy potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes due to their ability to absorb the creamy sauce and soften during baking.
2. Customize the cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyère adds a nutty flavor, while Parmesan gives it a sharp bite. A combination of cheeses is ideal for a balanced flavor.
3. Pre-cook the sauce: Simmering the sauce before pouring it over the potatoes ensures that the garlic and seasonings infuse the cream and milk, making for a more flavorful dish.
4. Thin potato slices: Thin, even slices of potato are key for this dish. If you don’t have a mandoline, use a sharp knife and take your time to slice the potatoes evenly.
5. Add herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary sprinkled on top of the potatoes before baking can add a wonderful herbal note to the dish.

Recipe Variations:

• Vegan scalloped potatoes: Use non-dairy milk and vegan butter instead of heavy cream and butter. You can substitute vegan cheese for a dairy-free version of this recipe.
• Bacon: Add crispy, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor that complements the creamy potatoes.
• Mushrooms: For added depth, sauté some mushrooms and layer them into the dish along with the potatoes and cheese.
• Spicy variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions:

• Main dish: Serve as a hearty main dish alongside a simple green vegetable like broccoli or asparagus for a lighter meal.
• Brunch: Make these potatoes part of a brunch spread, alongside scrambled eggs, a fresh fruit salad, or smoked salmon.
• Dinner party: These scalloped potatoes are perfect for a dinner party, as they can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store any leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: These potatoes freeze well! Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight, freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

FAQ:

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?
   While Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best, you can use other waxy potatoes like Red potatoes, though they won’t be as creamy.
2. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Bake the casserole just before serving.
3. Can I make this recipe without cheese?
   While the cheese adds richness and flavor, you can make a dairy-free version by skipping the cheese and using a non-dairy milk and vegan butter.
4. Can I use a different type of cream?
   Yes, you can use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a different flavor, though it will slightly alter the texture and richness.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze leftover scalloped potatoes. Just make sure they are completely cooled before freezing. Reheat in the oven for best results.
6. Can I make this dish spicier?
   Yes, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a little heat.
7. What can I use as a substitute for milk?
   You can substitute milk with more cream or even with chicken broth for a slightly different flavor.
8. Can I add vegetables to the scalloped potatoes?
   Yes! Vegetables like spinach, carrots, or even peas can be added to the layers for extra nutrition and flavor.
9. How do I prevent the potatoes from being too watery?
   Be sure to drain any excess moisture from the potatoes before layering them in the baking dish.
10. Can I use store-bought cheese sauce?
    While you can use store-bought cheese sauce, homemade is always better for flavor and texture. Plus, it’s easy to make with heavy cream and cheese.

Conclusion:

Best Scalloped Potatoes are a comfort food classic that combines creamy, tender potatoes with a rich, flavorful sauce and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for holiday meals, special occasions, or as a comforting side dish on a cozy evening. With the option to customize with different cheeses or add-ins like bacon or mushrooms, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that will never go out of style. The next time you’re looking for a show-stopping side, look no further than these Best Scalloped Potatoes.

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