Introduction:
Scalloped potatoes are a comforting and rich side dish made from thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This classic dish is perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any special occasion, offering a deliciously smooth texture and savory flavor that complements a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best)
2 cups heavy cream (or a mixture of milk and cream for a lighter version)
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (optional for extra richness)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt (more to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into 1/8-inch thick slices. Set aside.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 3-5 minutes).
Stir in the flour to create a roux, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream (or milk and cream mixture), stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cream sauce, ensuring an even distribution.
Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese (if using) and Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Description: Scalloped potatoes are a creamy, indulgent side dish that pairs well with almost any entrée, from roast meats to grilled vegetables. The tender potatoes absorb the flavors of the rich sauce, making every bite comforting and satisfying. Whether you opt for a cheesy version or prefer a simpler, more traditional approach, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Tips:
For a smoother texture, use a mandoline to slice the potatoes evenly.
You can make this dish ahead of time: Assemble it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.
If you want a crispy top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top of the cheese before baking.
To make it even creamier, add a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce.
To make a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
Correction:
Ensure the potatoes are sliced thinly enough to cook evenly. Thick slices will result in undercooked potatoes.
Be sure to cover the dish with foil during the first part of baking to prevent the top from over-browning before the potatoes are tender.
Adjust the seasoning to taste: you may want to add more salt or pepper depending on your preference.