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Step-by-Step Instructions for Best Scalloped Potatoes
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
Peel the Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, and slice them into thin, even rounds about 1/8 inch thick. Using a mandolin slicer makes this step much easier and ensures uniform slices.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the heavy cream, milk, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, black pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is hot but not boiling.
4. Layer the Potatoes
Start layering the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Once you’ve laid down the first layer, pour a small amount of the creamy sauce over the potatoes. Add a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and gruyere cheese on top of the sauce. Repeat the process until all the potatoes, sauce, and cheese are used up. Finish with a final layer of cheese on top.
5. Bake the Potatoes
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you’re unsure whether the potatoes are done, insert a fork into the center of the dish—it should go in easily when the potatoes are fully cooked.
6. Let It Rest
Once your scalloped potatoes are out of the oven, let them rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken up and makes it easier to cut into neat portions.
7. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the scalloped potatoes with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness, then serve hot as a side dish to your favorite main course.
Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes
- Slice Evenly: For the best texture, slice the potatoes as evenly as possible. Using a mandolin slicer is the easiest way to achieve uniform thickness.
- Layer for Even Cooking: Don’t skip layering the potatoes and sauce properly—this ensures each slice is well-coated with creamy goodness.
- Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar and gruyere are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like fontina, mozzarella, or parmesan for different flavor profiles.
- Cook Until Tender: Be patient while baking. It’s important to bake the potatoes long enough to get that creamy texture. Test for doneness by poking a fork through the top—it should go in easily when they’re fully cooked.
- Make Ahead: Scalloped potatoes can be made ahead of time! Assemble the dish a day before and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time, as it will need a little more time to heat through.
Serving Suggestions for Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are the perfect side dish for so many meals. Here are some ideas for pairing them with:
- Roast Chicken or Turkey: The creamy potatoes pair beautifully with roasted poultry, making it an ideal dish for Thanksgiving, Easter, or Sunday dinners.
- Grilled or Roasted Meat: Serve them alongside steak, pork chops, or roast beef for a satisfying and hearty meal.
- Green Vegetables: Pair with sautéed spinach, asparagus, or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the potatoes.
- Egg Dishes: Scalloped potatoes are a great addition to a brunch or breakfast spread, pairing well with scrambled eggs, fried eggs, or even ham steaks.
Why You’ll Love These Scalloped Potatoes
These Best Scalloped Potatoes are the perfect combination of rich, creamy, cheesy layers and tender potatoes, making them the ultimate comfort food. Whether served at a holiday gathering or as an everyday side dish, they are always a crowd favorite. With just the right balance of flavors and textures, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Make your next meal unforgettable with these creamy, cheesy, and perfectly golden scalloped potatoes! 🥔🧀🍽️
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