Ah, scalloped potatoes! Just saying the name brings back memories of cozy family dinners, where the aroma of creamy, cheesy goodness wafted through the air. There’s something so comforting about those layers of thinly sliced potatoes, swimming in a velvety cream sauce, and topped with perfectly melted cheese. I remember my grandmother making this dish every holiday season, and it was always the star of the table. You could hear the oohs and aahs as she served it up, and trust me, every bite was like a warm hug. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these scalloped potatoes are bound to impress and satisfy everyone at your table!
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How to Prepare Scalloped Potatoes
Making scalloped potatoes is as much about layering flavors as it is about layering those beautiful potato slices. Let’s dive right in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because we want those scalloped potatoes to bake evenly and get that lovely golden top!
- While the oven is heating up, grab your baking dish and grease it with a tablespoon of butter. This will help prevent sticking and add a bit of richness.
- Now, layer half of your thinly sliced potatoes in the greased dish. It’s okay if they overlap a bit – we want all that creamy goodness to seep through!
- Sprinkle half of the diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper over the potatoes. This is where the flavor starts to build, so don’t skimp!
- Next, pour half of the heavy cream over the layer of potatoes. You want it to soak in nicely.
- Now, for the cheese! Sprinkle half of your shredded cheddar cheese over the cream. Oh, yum!
- Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, garlic, salt, pepper, cream, and cheese. It’s like a delicious potato lasagna!
- Cover your dish with foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes. This helps the potatoes cook through and get tender.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 15 minutes. This is when the magic happens! You’ll see that golden, bubbly top, and your kitchen will smell divine.
- Finally, let the dish sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows everything to set up a bit, making it easier to scoop out those perfect portions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich, creamy flavors that everyone will adore.
- Versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with any main course.
- Comforting layers of cheese and potatoes create a satisfying texture.
- Can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Tips for Success
To truly elevate your scalloped potatoes, here are a few tips I’ve picked up along the way! First, if you want an extra layer of flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses—Gruyère or Fontina adds a delightful nuttiness that pairs beautifully with cheddar. Also, don’t skip on the seasoning; a pinch of nutmeg in the cream can add a surprising warmth. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding cooked bacon or ham for a smoky touch—yum! Make sure your potatoes are sliced evenly for consistent cooking; a mandoline works wonders for this. Lastly, let the dish rest for those 10 minutes before serving; it helps the layers hold together and makes dishing out a breeze. Trust me, these little adjustments make all the difference!
Variations of Scalloped Potatoes
If you’re looking to switch things up with your scalloped potatoes, the possibilities are endless! For a twist, try adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a burst of color and flavor. You could also swap out the cheddar for a mix of cheeses—think creamy goat cheese or sharp blue cheese for a gourmet touch. Feeling adventurous? Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or even some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the dish. Each variation brings its own unique flair, making this classic recipe fun and versatile!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers of your creamy scalloped potatoes is super easy! Just let the dish cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Trust me, they’re just as delicious the next day!
When it comes to reheating, the oven is your best friend. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the scalloped potatoes in an oven-safe dish. Cover them with foil to prevent drying out and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. If you love that golden top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes. You’ll be amazed at how the creamy texture and cheesy goodness hold up, making each bite feel like you just whipped them up fresh! Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Curious about the nutritional breakdown of these scrumptious scalloped potatoes? Each serving (about 1 cup) clocks in around 350 calories, with 25 grams of fat and 8 grams of protein. You’ll also find 30 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of fiber to keep things balanced. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredients used. Enjoy these creamy delights as part of a well-rounded meal!
FAQ Section
Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking point, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
What’s the best type of potato for scalloped potatoes?
I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They hold up well and create that creamy texture we all love.
Can I add other ingredients to my scalloped potatoes?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in cooked bacon, ham, or even some sautéed vegetables for added flavor and texture. Just remember not to overload it!
How do I know when my scalloped potatoes are done?
They’re ready when the top is golden and bubbly, and a knife easily pierces through the potatoes. If they still feel firm, give them a bit more time in the oven.
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
Yes, you can! Just let them cool, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
For more tips on cooking potatoes, check out this Potato Goodness resource.
To learn more about the health benefits of potatoes, visit Healthline.
Print
Scalloped Potatoes: 10 Simple Steps to Comfort Food 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 diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
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 onion, garlic, salt, and pepper over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the cream over the layer.
- Sprinkle half of the cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
- Let the dish sit for 10 minutes before serving.
- You can add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
- 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: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes, baked potatoes
