Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

These homemade cheesy scalloped potatoes are so simple and delicious — you will be coming back for seconds and thirds. Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or a cozy night in, this Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. The creamy texture paired with the rich flavor of cheddar cheese makes it a standout dish that complements any main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to bake.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of creamy sauce and melted cheese creates a comforting dish everyone loves.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe pairs well with meats, poultry, and even vegetarian meals, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dish ahead of time and bake it when you need it, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its cheesy goodness and satisfying textures, it’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making this scrumptious scalloped potatoes recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 pan
• Mandolin slicer
• Large saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 pan: The ideal size for layering potatoes and sauce, ensuring even cooking.
• Mandolin slicer: Allows for perfectly uniform potato slices that cook evenly.
• Large saucepan: Essential for creating the creamy cheese sauce without spillage.

Ingredients

These are the ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful scalloped potatoes recipe:

• 8 cups potatoes, (about 3 pounds peeled and sliced really thin)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup onion, (diced)
• 1 teaspoon garlic, (minced)
• 6 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• salt and pepper, (to taste)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, (grated)
• ½ tablespoon fresh thyme
• fresh thyme (for garnish)

How to Make Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your scalloped potatoes cook evenly throughout.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier.

Step 3: Slice the Potatoes

Wash, dry, and peel the potatoes. Using a mandolin, slice them very thin (⅛-inch thick). Thin slices help achieve that creamy texture.

Step 4: Cook Onions and Garlic

In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and garlic; cook until they are soft. This step builds flavor in your sauce.

Step 5: Create the Sauce Base

Add the flour to the onion mixture and cook for another two minutes. This creates a roux that thickens your sauce.

Step 6: Add Liquids Gradually

Reduce heat to low. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously. Next, add milk while whisking until combined. Increase heat to medium and stir constantly until boiling and thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Incorporate Cheese

Remove from heat. Stir in the thyme and cheddar cheese until melted. This forms your delicious cheese sauce!

Step 8: Layer Your Potatoes

Place half of the sliced potatoes in a layer at the bottom of the prepared pan. Season with salt and pepper. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the top of these potatoes.

Step 9: Add Second Layer

Add another layer of sliced potatoes on top; season again with salt and pepper. Pour remaining sauce over this layer and sprinkle with fresh thyme.

Step 10: Bake Covered

Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 11: Bake Uncovered

Remove foil from baking dish; bake an additional 30 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 12: Serve

Remove from oven. Garnish with fresh thyme before letting it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade scalloped potatoes!

How to Serve Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Serving scalloped potatoes is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. These creamy, cheesy potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with various main courses and garnishes.

As a Comforting Side

• With Roast Chicken: The richness of scalloped potatoes complements the savory flavors of roast chicken.
• Alongside Grilled Steak: The creaminess balances the grilled flavors of a juicy steak, making for a satisfying meal.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle Fresh Thyme: Adding fresh thyme enhances the aromatic flavor and adds a pop of color to your dish.
• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley gives a fresh touch and visual appeal to the scalloped potatoes.

Paired with Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and tangy dressing contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad adds freshness and balances the richness of your meal.

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How to Perfect Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

To ensure your scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Starchy Potatoes: Opt for russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture and creaminess.
• Slice Thinly: Aim for ⅛-inch thick slices to ensure even cooking and a creamy consistency.
• Layer Wisely: Alternate layers of potatoes and sauce, allowing each layer to absorb flavor and moisture.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the dish sit before serving allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for unique flavors in your scalloped potatoes.

Best Side Dishes for Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Scalloped potatoes make an excellent accompaniment to many dishes. Here are some great side dishes that pair well:

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil provides a colorful, nutritious complement.
2. Baked Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon adds brightness to the plate while balancing richness.
3. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots add a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory scalloped potatoes.
4. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread offers a crunchy texture that goes perfectly alongside creamy sides.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and freshness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a summery feel and pairs beautifully with cheesy potato goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a scalloped potatoes recipe, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Using thick potato slices: Cutting the potatoes too thick can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for slices that are about ⅛-inch thick for consistent results.
• Ignoring seasoning layers: Forgetting to season each layer can result in bland potatoes. Always season both the potato layers and sauce for maximum flavor.
• Not covering while baking: Skipping the foil cover during the first part of baking can cause the top to brown too quickly. Cover with foil for even cooking, removing it later for browning.
• Rushing the sauce: Cooking the sauce on too high heat can cause it to scorch. Keep it on medium heat and stir constantly until it thickens properly.
• Skipping resting time: Cutting into the dish right after removing it from the oven can lead to runny layers. Allowing it to rest helps set the dish for better slicing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container.
• They will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

• You can freeze scalloped potatoes if you want to store them longer.
• Make sure they are completely cool before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each burst until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about our scalloped potatoes recipe.

What type of potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes?

Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best as they create a creamy texture when baked.

Can I make this scalloped potatoes recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it before baking. Just add some extra baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How do I make my scalloped potatoes recipe gluten-free?

Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch in the sauce without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or any cheese that melts well.

Final Thoughts

This scalloped potatoes recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or using different cheeses based on your preferences. Whether paired with a hearty main dish or enjoyed on its own, these cheesy potatoes are sure to be a hit at your table. Don’t hesitate; give this delicious recipe a try!