Easy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Everyone Will Love
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious side dish that will please everyone at your table, look no further than this Easy Scalloped Potatoes recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and layered with thinly sliced potatoes, this dish is a favorite for gatherings or cozy family dinners. While you might hear the terms “scalloped potatoes” and “au gratin potatoes” thrown around, scalloped potatoes typically feature a creamy sauce without cheese in every layer—a slight twist on the classic au gratin. Regardless, both versions are mouthwatering and can make any meal extra special!
Ingredients & Kitchen Tools
Ingredients:
– 4 medium potatoes (about 2 lbs), thinly sliced
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for garnish)
Kitchen Tools:
– 9×13 inch baking dish
– Knife and cutting board
– Medium saucepan
– Mixing spoon
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Aluminum foil
Prep & Cook Time
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 1 hour
– Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Your Ingredients: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes using a knife or a mandoline for even thickness. Make sure to keep them in a bowl of water to prevent browning.
3. Make the Cream Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, then add salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Layer the Potatoes: In your baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes, followed by half of the cheddar cheese. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes, cream sauce, and cheese.
5. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This will steam the potatoes and allow them to soften.
6. Uncover and Brown: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle a bit more cheese on top if desired. Bake, uncovered, for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the scalloped potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Nutritional Benefits or Advantages
Scalloped potatoes are not just indulgent; they can provide nutritional benefits too! Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, B6, and potassium. Using low-fat cream or substituting with plant-based milk can help reduce calories while still enjoying great taste. Plus, the addition of onions and garlic adds essential nutrients and flavor.
Tips, Variations, or Substitutions
– Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like Gruyère or mozzarella, for unique flavors.
– Vegetable Add-ins: Sautéed mushrooms or spinach make fantastic additions to the layers.
– Dairy-Free Version: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Uneven Slicing: Ensure your potatoes are sliced evenly to guarantee that they cook uniformly.
– Skipping the Cover: Covering the dish in the beginning helps cook the potatoes through; don’t forget this step!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until they are heated through and the cheese is melty again.
Conclusion with Call-to-Action
There you have it—an Easy Scalloped Potatoes recipe that’s bound to be a hit! Whether served as a side dish for a holiday feast or a simple family meal, these creamy layers of goodness are sure to impress. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
FAQs
Q1: Can I prepare scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
Q2: What are the best potatoes to use for scalloped potatoes?
A: Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal as they create a creamy texture when baked.
Q3: Is there a way to make this recipe lower in calories?
A: Absolutely! Use low-fat milk or cream substitutes and reduce the amount of cheese.
Q4: Can scalloped potatoes be frozen?
A: Yes, you can freeze scalloped potatoes. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through.
