Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Scalloped Potatoes are a creamy, rich, and comforting dish, perfect for any occasion. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a luscious cream sauce, creating a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a slightly golden, crispy top. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, using just a few basic ingredients to create something indulgent and satisfying.

This recipe for Scalloped Potatoes is ideal for holidays, family dinners, or as a hearty side dish to accompany your favorite main course. The combination of potatoes, butter, cream, and cheese makes it an irresistible addition to any meal. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its incredible flavor and decadent texture.

Why You’ll Love Scalloped Potatoes

• Rich and Creamy: The layers of potatoes are enveloped in a velvety, creamy sauce that melts beautifully in the oven, creating a rich, indulgent flavor with every bite.
• Comforting and Hearty: Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Their creamy texture and buttery flavor make them a perfect dish to enjoy on a cold day or as part of a holiday feast.
• Visually Stunning: The golden, bubbling top and the layers of thinly sliced potatoes make this dish look as impressive as it tastes. It’s a showstopper on any dinner table.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a few pantry staples like potatoes, butter, and cream, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without needing complex or hard-to-find ingredients.
• Versatile: Scalloped Potatoes can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal dish for entertaining or meal prepping. They also pair beautifully with a variety of mains, from roasted meats to vegetarian entrees.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 220-250 calories per serving, depending on the amount of butter and cheese used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220-250 kcal
• Fat: 12-16g
• Carbohydrates: 26-30g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Scalloped Potatoes:

• 4 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Special Equipment

While making Scalloped Potatoes doesn’t require specialized equipment, using the following tools will help make the process smoother:

1. Mandoline or Sharp Knife: A mandoline slicer or sharp knife will ensure that the potatoes are sliced evenly and thinly. Even slices cook more evenly, creating a consistent texture throughout the dish.
2. Oven-Safe Baking Dish: An 8×8-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish works well for this recipe. Make sure the dish is deep enough to allow for multiple layers of potatoes and sauce.
3. Large Saucepan: A heavy-bottomed saucepan is perfect for making the creamy sauce. It prevents the cream from scalding and ensures a smooth consistency.
4. Grater or Food Processor: For grating the cheeses, a box grater or food processor will save time and ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
5. Aluminum Foil: Covering the dish with aluminum foil during the first portion of baking helps the potatoes cook through without browning too quickly. Remove the foil later to allow the top to crisp up.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling the russet potatoes and slicing them into thin, even rounds. You can use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices, or a sharp knife if you prefer. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick. This ensures the potatoes cook evenly in the oven.

Once sliced, place the potatoes into a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. Set them aside until you’re ready to layer them in the baking dish.

2. Make the Cream Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Next, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together. Keep an eye on it to prevent the cream from boiling over.

Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

3. Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the potatoes from sticking.

Begin layering the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish, slightly overlapping each layer. Sprinkle a pinch of salt between the layers for seasoning.

Once you have a layer of potatoes, pour some of the creamy cheese sauce over the top. Spread it evenly to cover the potatoes. Repeat the layering process, alternating between potatoes and sauce, until all the ingredients are used. The top layer should be covered with a generous amount of the sauce.

4. Bake the Scalloped Potatoes

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

After the initial baking time, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The sauce should be thickened and the edges of the potatoes slightly crisped.

5. Cool and Garnish

Remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set, making it easier to cut into neat portions.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

• Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes because of their starchy texture, which helps create a creamy consistency. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they don’t break down in the same way and won’t create the creamy texture you’re after.
• Slice Potatoes Evenly: Evenly sliced potatoes cook uniformly, so use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to achieve consistent thickness. This ensures the potatoes cook evenly and results in the perfect texture.
• Don’t Skip the Nutmeg: The touch of nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor to the cream sauce. It’s a traditional ingredient in scalloped potatoes and enhances the overall taste.
• Let the Dish Set Before Serving: Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve without the sauce running too much.
• For Extra Flavor, Add Garlic: You can add roasted garlic to the cream sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Simply roast garlic in the oven, mash it, and stir it into the sauce for a rich, aromatic touch.

Variations of Scalloped Potatoes

• Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Add more cheese to the sauce or sprinkle extra cheese on top for an even cheesier version. You can use Gruyère, mozzarella, or any cheese of your choice to customize the flavor.
• Bacon Scalloped Potatoes: For a smoky flavor, crisp up some bacon and crumble it into the potato layers. The bacon adds a savory crunch that complements the creamy potatoes beautifully.
• Herb-Infused Scalloped Potatoes: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to the sauce for an earthy flavor. These herbs pair well with the richness of the potatoes and create a more aromatic dish.
• Vegetarian Scalloped Potatoes: If you prefer a meat-free version, simply omit the bacon and stick to the creamy cheese sauce. You can also add sautéed vegetables like spinach or leeks for added texture and flavor.

Storage and Shelf Life

Scalloped Potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the scalloped potatoes. After baking and cooling, wrap the dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes

Pair your scalloped potatoes with a variety of main dishes to create a complete meal:

• Roast Beef: A classic pairing with scalloped potatoes, roast beef offers a hearty, savory contrast to the creamy potatoes.
• Baked Chicken: Crispy baked chicken with a side of scalloped potatoes is a delicious and filling combination that satisfies every palate.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve your scalloped potatoes alongside grilled vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini for a light yet flavorful side.
• Green Salad: A fresh, crunchy green salad balances the richness of the scalloped potatoes. Consider a simple Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

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Conclusion

Scalloped Potatoes are a timeless, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their creamy texture, rich flavor, and golden top, they’re sure to be a hit at your next dinner. Whether you’re serving them as a side for a holiday meal, a family dinner, or a cozy weeknight feast, these potatoes will quickly become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the creamy goodness of this classic dish!