Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food, combining thinly sliced potatoes with a creamy, cheesy sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or any occasion that calls for a rich and hearty side. Our recipe ensures that your scalloped potatoes will be tender, flavorful, and irresistibly cheesy. Let’s dive into the detailed steps, tips, and variations to make the best scalloped potatoes ever!
Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet; about 2 pounds more or less)
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 1 1/2 cups of milk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- A dash of cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- Red pepper for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and peel the potatoes. Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds about 1/8-inch thick.
- Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water to prevent them from browning and to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. The mixture should be smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
- Add the salt and a dash of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Stir in 1 cup of the sharp cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the bottom of the dish.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce, ensuring all the potatoes are well coated.
4. Bake the Scalloped Potatoes
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar cheese over the top.
- Continue baking uncovered for another 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken further.
- Garnish with finely chopped red pepper for a pop of color and additional flavor if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Even Slices: Using a mandoline ensures even slices, which helps the potatoes cook uniformly.
- Cheese Choice: Sharp cheddar cheese provides a rich flavor, but you can mix in other cheeses like Gruyere or Parmesan for added complexity.
- Thickening the Sauce: Ensure the milk mixture thickens before adding the cheese to avoid a runny sauce.
Variations
- Herbed Scalloped Potatoes: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to the cheese sauce for an aromatic twist.
- Bacon Scalloped Potatoes: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon between the layers of potatoes for a smoky flavor.
- Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: Substitute some of the milk with heavy cream for an extra rich and creamy sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
Scalloped potatoes offer a comforting and indulgent experience, but they can also be made with nutritional mindfulness:
- Potatoes: A good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and dietary fiber.
- Cheese: Provides protein and calcium, but use it in moderation due to its high fat content.
- Cayenne Pepper: Adds flavor and can boost metabolism.
Scalloped potatoes are a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This recipe ensures that your scalloped potatoes will be perfectly creamy and cheesy, with a tender texture and a hint of spice from the cayenne pepper. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, holiday gathering, or potluck, these scalloped potatoes are sure to be a hit. Follow our detailed instructions, tips, and variations to create the best scalloped potatoes that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Enjoy your delicious and comforting scalloped potatoes!
