Scalloped Potatoes

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure the potatoes don’t stick.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them into 1/8-inch thick rounds. Using a mandolin slicer can make this step easier and ensure uniform thickness. After slicing, rinse the potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch and pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Make the Cream Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, then stir in the salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, but do not let it boil. Remove from heat once it’s heated through and well combined.
4. Layer the Potatoes: Arrange a layer of potato slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Pour a small amount of the cream sauce over the potatoes, just enough to cover them. Sprinkle a bit of shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat the process—layering potatoes, drizzling with cream sauce, and adding cheese—until all the potatoes and sauce are used up. Be sure to finish with a generous layer of cheese on top.
5. Bake the Scalloped Potatoes: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden and bubbly. If you like a crispier top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
6. Let It Rest: Once out of the oven, let the scalloped potatoes sit for about 5-10 minutes to firm up before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired, and serve warm.

Why You’ll Love Scalloped Potatoes:

1. Creamy and Comforting: The creamy sauce made with heavy cream and milk envelops each potato slice, creating a velvety texture that’s simply irresistible. The combination of cheddar and Parmesan adds richness and depth to every bite.
2. Golden, Crisped Top: After baking, the top layer of cheese becomes beautifully golden and slightly crispy, offering the perfect contrast to the tender potatoes below.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a Thanksgiving feast, or a special holiday meal, scalloped potatoes are always a welcome addition to the table. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a simple green salad.
4. Easily Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your tastes. Add a sprinkle of herbs like rosemary or thyme to the sauce for extra flavor, or mix in a little garlic powder or onion powder for a savory boost. For a richer flavor, you can substitute some of the milk with sour cream or half-and-half.
5. Make Ahead: Scalloped potatoes are a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble the casserole a day or two in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it just before serving. This is especially helpful during busy holidays or when preparing a large meal for guests.

Tips for Success:

• Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this dish because they’re starchy and become tender and creamy when baked. Yukon Gold potatoes can also work well for a slightly buttery texture.
• Slice Potatoes Evenly: For even cooking, make sure the potato slices are uniform in thickness. Using a mandolin slicer is a great way to achieve this consistency.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. This allows the sauce to thicken and makes it easier to serve without everything running together.
• Add Some Vegetables: For added flavor and nutrition, you can layer in sautéed onions, spinach, or mushrooms between the potato layers.

Why Scalloped Potatoes Are a Timeless Classic:

There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that’s so simple, yet so delicious. Scalloped Potatoes are a timeless classic because they’re the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crispy goodness. It’s a dish that can be easily made to suit any taste and any occasion, whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner.

The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to be both indulgent and comforting, offering the perfect side dish to accompany your favorite main courses. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, scalloped potatoes will always be a beloved favorite in kitchens across the world.

So, why not treat yourself and your family to a dish that’s bound to become a household favorite? Try making Scalloped Potatoes today—your taste buds will thank you!