Scrumptious scalloped potatoes are soft, cheesy layers of potatoes baked to golden perfection. This dish is creamy, rich, and oh-so-comforting for any meal!
Who can resist a plate of cheesy goodness? I love to serve these with grilled chicken or a tasty steak. They’re a hit at family dinners, and leftovers? Well, they rarely exist! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are great for scalloped potatoes due to their starchy texture. If you prefer, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier taste. Just remember to slice them thinly for even cooking.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can replace it with half-and-half or even whole milk for a less rich option.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch—just use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor. If you want a different cheese, consider Gruyère or Monterey Jack. For a healthier option, try reduced-fat cheese!
Thyme: Fresh thyme gives a lovely herbaceous note. Dried thyme can also be used, but reduce the amount to half since dried herbs are more potent.
How Can I Ensure My Scalloped Potatoes Are Creamy and Not Watery?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is key! Start by layering the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. Here are some tips:
- Slice Thinly: Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick. You can use a mandoline for consistent thickness.
- Mix Well: Make sure to stir the cream mixture thoroughly to combine the flavors well before pouring it over the potatoes.
- Cover and Bake: Covering the dish with foil while baking traps steam, helping the potatoes cook through before browning.
Following these steps will help keep your scalloped potatoes creamy and delicious! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Scrumptious Scalloped Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
For the Cream Mixture:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
For the Cheese Layer:
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
For the Baking Dish:
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll bake it for about 1 hour. So in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can enjoy your scrumptious scalloped potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it well with butter. This will help your potatoes come out easily later!
2. Mix the Cream:
In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Use a whisk or a spoon to stir everything together until well mixed. This creamy mixture is going to add so much flavor!
3. Layer the Potatoes:
Now it’s time to assemble! Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Don’t worry about making it look perfect; just spread them out evenly.
4. Add Cream and Cheese:
Pour half of the cream mixture over the first layer of potatoes, making sure to coat them well. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. This will create a delicious layer of flavor!
5. Repeat the Layers:
Take the rest of the sliced potatoes and layer them on top of the first layer you just created. Repeat the process by pouring the remaining cream mixture over the potatoes, and top with the rest of the cheese. Yum!
6. Bake Your Dish:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. This will help the potatoes cook through and absorb that creamy goodness!
7. Golden Finish:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Let the scalloped potatoes bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it as it finishes baking!
8. Let it Set:
Once your scalloped potatoes are perfectly cooked, take them out of the oven and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps the sauce to thicken a bit and makes serving easier.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, scoop out a generous serving of those delicious scalloped potatoes and enjoy them warm as a cozy side dish. They are sure to impress everyone at the table!
## FAQ for Scrumptious Scalloped Potatoes
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese gives a great flavor, you can mix it up by using Gruyère, mozzarella, or fontina for a different taste. Just ensure the cheese melts well for that creamy texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the scalloped potatoes a day in advance! Assemble everything up to Step 8, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just extend the baking time slightly since it’ll be going into the oven cold.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also add a splash of milk to keep them creamy!
Can I Substitute Milk for a Lighter Option?
Yes, you can substitute the milk with a low-fat version, almond milk, or even a vegetable broth for a lighter alternative. However, this may change the creaminess of the dish slightly, so adjust by adding a bit more cheese or using full-fat cream for balance!
