Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of scalloped potatoes. This classic dish combines layers of thinly sliced potatoes with a luscious cheese sauce that melts in your mouth. Perfect as a side for holidays or cozy family dinners, it’s a comfort food that never fails to impress. Get ready to savor every bite of this irresistible recipe that will soon become a staple on your dining table.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the dish) contains approximately 350 calories, 25g fat, 20g carbohydrates, and 10g protein.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a saucepan, heat cream over medium heat and add garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish.
- Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the cream.
- Add the remaining potato slices in another layer.
- Pour the remaining cream mixture over the top.
- Finish with the rest of the cheese and thyme.
- Bake in the oven for 1 hour, until golden and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk. For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cheese.
Serving and Pairings
Scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats, such as chicken or beef, and complement fresh green salads or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not slicing the potatoes evenly can lead to uneven cooking.
- Using cold cream may cause the sauce to separate.
- Overbaking can make potatoes dry; check for doneness.
- Skipping the seasoning can result in bland flavor.
- Not letting the dish rest after baking can make it hard to slice.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits between the layers.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations, like gouda or mozzarella.
- Use a mandoline for perfectly thin potato slices.
- Cover the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent over-browning.
FAQs
Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare scalloped potatoes a day in advance. Assemble the dish and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.
What type of potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes?
Starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon Golds are ideal for scalloped potatoes due to their creamy texture when cooked.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach can be layered in for added flavor and nutrition.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The potatoes are done when they are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. You can check doneness with a fork.
Is it possible to make scalloped potatoes without cheese?
Yes, you can omit cheese and use additional herbs and spices for flavor, though the dish will be less creamy.
Conclusion
Scalloped potatoes are not just a side dish; they are a comforting experience that brings warmth to any table. With creamy layers and a delicious cheesy topping, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every mouthful of this classic dish!
Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a saucepan, heat cream over medium heat and add garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish.
- Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the cream.
- Add the remaining potato slices in another layer.
- Pour the remaining cream mixture over the top.
- Finish with the rest of the cheese and thyme.
- Bake in the oven for 1 hour, until golden and bubbly.
