Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistibly Comforting 🥔🧀✨

1. Introduction

Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This classic dish features layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this scalloped potatoes recipe is guaranteed to impress. The combination of rich cheese, velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked potatoes makes it a timeless favorite that pairs beautifully with everything from roasted meats to vegetarian entrees.

2. Ingredients

Gathering high-quality ingredients is key to making the best scalloped potatoes. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes (their buttery texture works best)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (for a rich, flavorful base)
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken the creamy sauce)
• 2 cups whole milk (for creaminess)
• 1 cup heavy cream (adds luxurious richness)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (for depth of flavor)
• 1 tsp onion powder (enhances savoriness)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper (freshly ground is best)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar works wonderfully)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a nutty, salty finish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for a pop of color and freshness)

For more cheesy inspiration, check out our Mexican Mac and Cheese Recipe!

3. Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and peel the potatoes thoroughly. For the perfect texture in your scalloped potatoes, slice them into uniform 1/8-inch thick rounds. A mandoline slicer works wonders here, but a sharp knife will do the job too. Consistent thickness ensures even cooking – nobody wants some potatoes mushy while others are still firm!

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s just beginning to bubble. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux – this is the foundation of your sauce. Cook the roux for about 90 seconds to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese until it melts into a velvety, cheesy sauce.

For another creamy dish option, try our Copycat Chicken Bryan Recipe with its delicious lemon butter sauce!

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer at the bottom – slightly overlapping them creates beautiful presentation. Pour half of the creamy cheese sauce over the potatoes, using a spatula to ensure every slice gets coated. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce. Finally, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese and all the Parmesan evenly over the top. This creates that irresistible golden crust we all love in scalloped potatoes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil (this helps the potatoes steam and cook through evenly). Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes until the top is beautifully golden brown and the potatoes are fork-tender. For an extra crispy top, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes (watch carefully!). Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving – this allows the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright, fresh contrast to the rich potatoes.

4. Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes

• Slice Evenly: Invest in a good mandoline slicer for perfectly uniform potato slices every time.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or smoked Gouda for unique flavor profiles.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the dish completely (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when ready to cook.
• Extra Crispy Top: For maximum browning, pat the top layer of potatoes dry before adding the final cheese.
• Herb Boost: Add a teaspoon of fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for aromatic depth.

5. Serving Suggestions

These decadent scalloped potatoes make the perfect accompaniment to so many main dishes. They’re classic with holiday ham or roast turkey, but also pair wonderfully with weeknight dinners like roasted chicken or grilled steak. For a vegetarian meal, serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or a crisp arugula salad. They’re also fantastic at brunch with eggs – check out our breakfast recipes for more ideas!

6. Storage and Reheating

Leftover scalloped potatoes (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) store beautifully. Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container – they’ll keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For best results when reheating:

• Oven Method: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) in a covered dish for 15-20 minutes. Add a splash of milk if needed to refresh the creaminess.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Freezing: While possible, the texture may become slightly grainy. If freezing, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

7. Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic scalloped potatoes recipe, try these delicious variations:

• Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Mix in crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream before serving.
• Herb-Infused: Add 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to the sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for warmth.
• Mushroom Lover’s: Sauté 8 oz of sliced mushrooms and layer them with the potatoes.
• Sweet Potato Version: Substitute half the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a colorful twist.

For another potato-based treat, don’t miss our incredible Potato Chip Toffee recipe!

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?
A: While you can use russets, Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they’re naturally creamier and hold their shape better during baking. Russets tend to become more mealy.

Q: Can I make scalloped potatoes without cheese?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the cheese for a dairy-free version. The creamy sauce will still be delicious on its own. You might want to increase the seasonings slightly to compensate.

Q: How do I prevent my scalloped potatoes from being watery?
A: Several tips: 1) Make sure your sauce is quite thick before assembling. 2) Don’t skip the resting time after baking. 3) Consider patting the potato slices dry before layering. 4) If using particularly starchy potatoes, you can soak them in water for 30 minutes then dry thoroughly.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: While convenient, pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. For smoothest results, shred your own cheese from a block.

For more cooking tips and recipe ideas, visit our About Me page!

9. Conclusion

This scalloped potatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion – from casual family dinners to elegant holiday gatherings. The combination of tender potatoes, rich creamy sauce, and golden cheese topping creates a dish that’s irresistible every time. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with variations, these scalloped potatoes are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. For more inspiration, check out this great scalloped potatoes resource from Love and Lemons.

Don’t forget to explore our dessert recipes for the perfect sweet ending to your meal! And as always, please review our disclaimer and terms and conditions.

Now that you’re armed with all the tips and tricks for perfect scalloped potatoes, it’s time to get cooking! Whip up a batch of these creamy, cheesy delights and watch them disappear. Happy cooking! 🍽️🥔🧀

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