– **Title**: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
– Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix well.
4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the sautéed onion and garlic mixture over the potatoes, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Pour half of the cream mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onion and garlic mixture, cheese, and cream mixture.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for the creamy texture you want. If you prefer a different flavor or texture, try Yukon Golds for a buttery taste or even sweet potatoes for a twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang. If you’re looking for something milder, use medium cheddar. For a fun mix, blend in some pepper jack for a little kick or even Gouda for creaminess.
Heavy Cream & Milk: These create a rich sauce. You can swap heavy cream with half-and-half for fewer calories or use almond milk for a non-dairy version. Just note, this might change the taste slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness better. If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or vegan butter – it will still be tasty!
Onion & Garlic: These add great flavor! If you’re not a fan of onions, you can replace it with shallots or skip it altogether, but I recommend keeping the garlic for that lovely aroma.
How Do I Make the Cheese Sauce Smooth and Creamy?
The cheese sauce is crucial for that luscious scalloped potato experience. A few tips can help you make it perfect every time:
- Start by melting the butter gently and don’t rush the cooking of the onion and garlic. This step adds incredible flavor.
- When adding flour, whisk continuously until it becomes a light golden color. This helps prevent a raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk while whisking. This avoids lumps and gives you that creamy consistency.
- Make sure to remove the pan from heat before adding cheese. The residual heat will melt it perfectly without clumping.
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Layers:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste (1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper)
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 1 hour total cooking time. You’ll spend a little time slicing the potatoes and making the creamy cheese sauce, and then let the oven do the work! Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your potatoes cook evenly and get that nice golden top!
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This will create a flavorful base for your cheese sauce!
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
Next, sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes. This helps cook the flour and prevents any raw taste. Gradually pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, whisking as you go. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, which should take around 3-5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in half of the grated cheddar cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Add the salt, black pepper, and paprika if you like a bit more flavor!
4. Layering the Potatoes:
Now, grab a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes in the dish. Pour half of the cheesy sauce over this layer, making sure to cover all the potatoes. Then, repeat this process with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce. It’s important that all the potatoes are coated well for that creamy goodness!
5. Baking the Dish:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. This helps the potatoes cook through and soak up all that delicious sauce!
6. Finishing Touch:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the layers set a little. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your cheesy scalloped potatoes as a side dish or even on their own!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are great for their starchiness, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly creamier texture. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. For the cheese, look for vegan cheese alternatives that melt well. Just be aware that the flavor may vary slightly!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave single portions for a quicker option!
What Should I Serve with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses! Try serving it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It also makes a great side for holiday gatherings!
