SCALLOPED POTATOES

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

• Start by peeling the potatoes (optional, as some people prefer to leave the skin on for added texture and nutrition) and slice them into thin rounds. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick for even cooking. You can use a mandolin slicer for uniform slices, which helps ensure they cook evenly.

2. Make the Cream Sauce

• In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion (if using) and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
• Stir in 1 tablespoon of flour to create a roux. Cook the flour for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to remove the raw taste.
• Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer while stirring frequently. Once the sauce starts to thicken, reduce the heat to low.
• Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice) until it melts into the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme or rosemary (optional). Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.

3. Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick cooking spray.
• Begin layering the sliced potatoes in the dish, slightly overlapping each slice. After each layer of potatoes, pour a portion of the creamy cheese sauce over them. Repeat this layering process until you’ve used up all the potatoes and sauce. Aim for 3-4 layers of potatoes.
• Sprinkle the top layer with grated Parmesan cheese for a golden, crispy top.

4. Bake the Scalloped Potatoes

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the scalloped potatoes for about 45 minutes. This helps the potatoes cook through and become tender.
• After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

5. Let It Rest and Serve

• Once the scalloped potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and set. This also makes serving easier.
• Garnish with fresh parsley (optional), and serve while hot.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

• Choose the Right Potatoes: The type of potato you use will impact the texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are creamy and hold their shape well, making them ideal for scalloped potatoes. Russet potatoes are starchy and may break down a bit more, resulting in a softer texture. Both work well, but Yukon Gold tends to give the best balance.
• Thin, Even Slices: To ensure even cooking, slice the potatoes as evenly as possible. A mandolin slicer is perfect for achieving thin, uniform slices that cook consistently.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allow the baked scalloped potatoes to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the scalloped potatoes in advance by assembling the dish, covering it with foil, and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes if baking from cold.
• Add More Cheese: For extra cheesiness, feel free to add more cheese to the layers. Gruyère, mozzarella, or even some cream cheese mixed into the sauce can create an even more decadent result.
• Experiment with Flavor: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños into the sauce. For an herby flavor, experiment with adding fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce or sprinkling it over the top.

Variations on Classic Scalloped Potatoes

1. Bacon Scalloped Potatoes: Add crispy crumbled bacon to the layers of potatoes or stir it into the cheese sauce for extra savory flavor.
2. Garlic Herb Scalloped Potatoes: Stir in minced garlic, fresh herbs (like thyme, rosemary, or parsley), or even roasted garlic into the sauce for added depth and flavor.
3. Creamy Spinach Scalloped Potatoes: Add a layer of sautéed spinach between the layers of potatoes for a pop of color and nutrition. You can also mix the spinach directly into the cheese sauce.
4. Mushroom Scalloped Potatoes: Sauté sliced mushrooms in butter and layer them with the potatoes and cheese sauce for a deliciously earthy variation.
5. Vegan Scalloped Potatoes: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk (such as almond or coconut milk) and substitute vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for the cheese. A dairy-free butter can be used for the roux.

Serving Suggestions

Scalloped Potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

• With Roast Meats: Scalloped potatoes make an excellent side dish for roast chicken, pork, beef, or lamb. The rich, creamy potatoes balance the savory flavors of the meats.
• With Grilled Steak: The heartiness of the potatoes complements the richness of a perfectly grilled steak or grilled chicken.
• For Special Occasions: Serve scalloped potatoes alongside a holiday roast, such as turkey for Thanksgiving or ham for Easter. They are also a fantastic addition to a Christmas dinner spread.
• With Salad: Pair with a light green salad or a tangy slaw to balance out the richness of the potatoes.

Final Thoughts

Scalloped Potatoes are a classic, creamy side dish that can easily become the star of your meal. Whether you prefer them with extra cheese, a touch of herbs, or a protein-packed variation like bacon, this dish is versatile and adaptable to any flavor profile you desire. The beauty of scalloped potatoes is in their comforting, rich texture, making them the perfect side to complement a variety of main courses.

With this simple, yet delicious recipe, you can bring the warmth and comfort of scalloped potatoes to your table any time.