When the aroma of scalloped potatoes wafts through the air, it’s like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine layers of tender potatoes, swimming in a creamy sauce, topped with golden cheese that bubbles and browns to perfection. This dish doesn’t just serve as a side; it transforms an ordinary meal into an occasion worthy of celebration.
I still remember the first time I made scalloped potatoes for my family during a holiday gathering. As they dug into the creamy layers, their delighted expressions were priceless. It was as if I had discovered the secret to happiness, one cheesy bite at a time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These scalloped potatoes are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion from weeknight dinners to festive feasts
- The rich, creamy flavor combined with crispy cheese makes them irresistible
- Their beautiful presentation will wow your guests and enhance your meal’s visual appeal
- Plus, you can customize them with herbs or spices for added flair!
Everyone at the table couldn’t stop raving about how delicious they were, and honestly, I felt like a kitchen rockstar that day!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Russet Potatoes: Ideal for their starchy texture; they hold up well when baked and create a creamy consistency.
Heavy Cream: Choose full-fat cream for the richest flavor and smoothest sauce.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Grate your own for better melting quality; its bold flavor enhances every layer.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for adding depth; it infuses every bite with aromatic goodness.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning that brings out the flavors of all ingredients; adjust according to taste.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control saltiness; it’s perfect for greasing the baking dish and adds richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep those Potatoes: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and thinly slice your russet potatoes using a sharp knife or mandoline for even cooking.
Create the Creamy Mixture: In a bowl, mix heavy cream with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This will be your luscious sauce that coats each potato slice.
Layer It Up: In a greased baking dish, arrange half of your potato slices in an even layer. Pour half of the cream mixture over them and sprinkle half of the grated cheddar cheese.
Add More Layers!: Repeat with another layer of potatoes, cream mixture, and top with remaining cheese. Don’t skimp on that cheesy goodness; it’s what dreams are made of!
Bake It Good!: Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Remove the foil after 30 minutes to let that cheese get bubbly and golden brown.
Let It Rest (If You Can): Once done baking, let your scalloped potatoes sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow everything to set up nicely.
With this simple yet elegant recipe, you’ll be enjoying scalloped potatoes that are not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying!
You Must Know
- Scalloped potatoes are a creamy delight that elevate any meal
- Perfectly baked, they offer a rich texture and savory flavor that impresses at gatherings
- With the right technique, those layers of thin potatoes become a comforting side dish everyone loves
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your ingredients: slice the potatoes evenly, then layer them with cheese and sauce. Bake until golden and bubbly for best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or add spices such as nutmeg for extra warmth. Personalize it to your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain its creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly layered scalloped potatoes, ensure each potato slice is uniform for even cooking
- Consider using a mandoline for consistency
- Don’t skip on seasoning; layers need flavor to shine through every bite!
Sharing this recipe reminds me of family gatherings where my cousin would always ask for seconds. The laughter around the table made those scalloped potatoes feel extra special, turning simple ingredients into cherished memories.
FAQ
What type of potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starch content and creaminess.
Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, prepare them a day before and bake just before serving for optimal freshness.
How do I prevent my scalloped potatoes from being watery?
Ensure you slice the potatoes thinly and cook them long enough to absorb excess moisture.
Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender layers of russet potatoes with a rich, creamy sauce and melted cheddar cheese. This dish elevates any meal, from cozy weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Each bite offers a perfect balance of creaminess and flavor that will have your guests coming back for seconds. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can create this crowd-pleaser in no time!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix heavy cream with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the potato slices, pour half of the cream mixture over them, and sprinkle half of the cheese.
- Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes; remove foil after 30 minutes for a bubbly top.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
