Oh, scalloped potatoes! Just saying the name makes my mouth water. There’s something about that creamy, cheesy goodness that instantly warms my heart. I remember family gatherings where my grandma would whip up a big dish of these heavenly potatoes. Everyone would gather around the table, the aroma filling the air, and you’d see the smiles on faces as the first bite melted in our mouths. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of digging into a warm, cheesy serving of scalloped potatoes. They’re not just a side dish; they’re a hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create the most delicious scalloped potatoes you’ll ever taste!
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced (I love using russet potatoes for their creamy texture!)
- 2 cups heavy cream (this is what makes it so rich and dreamy)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (the sharper, the better for that cheesy punch!)
- 1 cup milk (you can use whole milk for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the baking dish and adding a bit of richness)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to bring all those flavors together)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for just a hint of spice)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better!)
- 1 onion, finely chopped (adds such a lovely sweetness when baked)
With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a comforting classic that everyone will love!
How to Prepare Scalloped Potatoes
Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because you want those scalloped potatoes to bake evenly and perfectly. While the oven warms up, grab a baking dish and grease it with a bit of butter. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a touch of flavor!
Layer the Ingredients
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—layering! Start with half of your thinly sliced potatoes, spreading them evenly in the bottom of the dish. Next, sprinkle half of the finely chopped onion over those lovely potatoes. In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour half of this creamy mixture over the potatoes, letting it seep into all the nooks and crannies. Then, sprinkle half of that glorious shredded cheddar on top. Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, cream mixture, and cheese. Trust me, those layers are what make this dish so magical!
Baking Instructions
Once you’ve got those layers stacked, it’s time to bake! Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil to keep all that moisture in and pop it in the oven for 45 minutes. This helps the potatoes cook through and become tender. After that, carefully remove the foil—watch out for hot steam! Bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is beautifully golden brown and bubbly. Oh boy, the smell will be irresistible! Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving, so it firms up just a bit and is easier to scoop out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra creamy texture that just melts in your mouth
- Cheesy flavor that will have you going back for seconds (or thirds!)
- Simple preparation—just layer, pour, and bake!
- Perfect for gatherings, making it a crowd-pleaser
- Comfort food at its finest, perfect for chilly nights
- Can be made ahead of time—just pop it in the oven when you’re ready!
Tips for Success
Let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure your scalloped potatoes turn out absolutely perfect every time!
- Use a mandoline: For the most even slices, a mandoline slicer is a game-changer! It gives you consistent thickness, which helps the potatoes cook evenly.
- Don’t skip the resting time: After baking, let the dish sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to scoop and serve without falling apart.
- Cheese it up: Feel free to mix different cheeses! A blend of cheddar and Gruyère adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Season well: Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor boost.
- Cover tightly: When baking with foil, make sure it’s snug. This helps trap moisture, ensuring your potatoes are creamy and tender.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make the best scalloped potatoes that will impress everyone around the table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a big, delicious dish of scalloped potatoes, and you’ve got some leftovers—lucky you! To store them properly, let the dish cool down to room temperature first. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to label it so you don’t forget about this cheesy delight!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain that creamy texture and prevent them from getting soggy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the scalloped potatoes in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil to keep moisture in. Heat them for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want to get that cheesy top bubbling again, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes. Wow, you’ll be amazed at how good they taste, even the next day!
Nutritional Information
Now, I know you’re curious about what’s in these creamy delights! Here’s a general rundown of the nutritional values for one serving of scalloped potatoes. Keep in mind these are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re indulging in:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 6g
So, while these scalloped potatoes are definitely a treat, they’re also packed with comfort and flavor. Enjoy every cheesy bite and don’t forget to share with your loved ones (if you’re feeling generous)!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of potatoes for scalloped potatoes?
Absolutely! While I love using russet potatoes for their creaminess, you can also try Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that different types might affect the texture a bit, so choose your favorite!
What can I serve with scalloped potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes are super versatile! They pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a simple green salad. You could also serve them as a comforting side dish for any holiday meal—everyone will be reaching for seconds!
Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prep everything and layer the ingredients in the baking dish, then cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you start with a cold dish. So convenient!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep those cheesy scalloped potatoes fresh, let them cool to room temperature and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Trust me, they taste amazing even after a day or two!
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing them after baking, as the texture might change. However, if you want to prep them ahead of time, you can assemble the layers and freeze before baking. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as usual!
Scalloped Potatoes: 5 Cheesy Layers of Comforting Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and cheesy scalloped potatoes baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 onion, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped onion over the potatoes.
- Mix the cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle half of the cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Use a mandoline for even potato slices.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheese potatoes, baked potatoes
