Description
Creamy, cheesy Scalloped Potatoes bring comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen to your dinner table. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes meld with rich cream and sharp cheddar, creating a side dish that will make you crave seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (907 grams) russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
Seasoning and Herbs:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Aromatic Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the cooking environment by heating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously coating a 9×13-inch baking vessel with lubricant.
- Transform potatoes into delicate, uniform discs approximately ⅛-inch thick, submerging them in cold water to halt oxidation.
- Craft a flavor foundation by gently sautéing finely diced onions in melted butter until translucent, then introduce minced garlic and briefly toast to release aromatic essence.
- Construct a luxurious cream sauce by combining dairy components, allowing them to meld and warm. Gradually incorporate shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and seasonings, whisking until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
- Create architectural layers within the baking dish, alternating potato medallions with cascading cheese sauce. Ensure each stratum receives thorough coverage, culminating with a generous sauce blanket.
- Shield the culinary creation with aluminum foil, initiating the baking process for 40 minutes. Unveil the dish, continuing cooking until potatoes reach tender perfection and the surface transforms into a golden, effervescent landscape.
- Allow the potato ensemble to settle briefly, permitting flavors to harmonize. Embellish with freshly chopped parsley before presenting this comforting masterpiece.
Notes
- Slice potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Soak potato slices in cold water to prevent oxidation and maintain their bright color before layering.
- Use a mandoline slicer for precise, thin potato rounds that cook evenly and create a beautiful layered presentation.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyère or sharp white cheddar to customize the flavor profile and add depth to the sauce.
- Allow the dish to rest after baking, which helps the sauce set and makes serving easier without falling apart.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream to reduce overall fat content.
- Add crispy bacon bits or diced ham between layers for extra protein and a smoky flavor dimension.
- Create a gluten-free version by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free and checking cheese and cream labels.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 22 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg