Are you looking for the perfect side dish to complement your family dinner or holiday feast? Look no further than our irresistible Easy Scalloped Potatoes recipe! With layers of tender potatoes smothered in a creamy cheese sauce and baked to golden perfection, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Plus, with its simple preparation and deliciously satisfying taste, it’s a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. So let’s dive in and discover how to create this ultimate comfort food!
Ingredients:
- 6 cans Sliced New Potatoes, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups Sharp White Cheddar, shredded
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar, shredded
- 2 cups Colby Jack Cheese, shredded
- 1 stick Butter
- 3 Tablespoons Flour
- 2½ cups of Heavy Cream
- ½ teaspoon of Paprika
- ½ teaspoon of Garlic Salt
- ¼ teaspoon of Ground Mustard
- ½ teaspoon of Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Seasoning Salt
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Onion Powder (*Adjust seasonings to taste preference!)
Instructions:
Preparing the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Rinse and drain the sliced new potatoes thoroughly. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded Sharp White Cheddar, Sharp Cheddar, and Colby Jack cheese. Toss to mix evenly.
Making the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the stick of butter.
- Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes golden brown and fragrant.
- Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Add the paprika, garlic salt, ground mustard, pepper, seasoning salt, garlic powder, and onion powder to the sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Continue to cook the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Assembling the Dish:
- Arrange a layer of sliced new potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spoon a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring that they are well coated.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of the shredded cheese mixture over the sauce.
- Repeat the layers of potatoes, sauce, and cheese until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
Baking the Scalloped Potatoes:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or your favorite protein for a hearty meal.
- Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-balanced plate.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Bacon: For an extra indulgent twist, add cooked and crumbled bacon between the layers of potatoes and cheese.
- Use Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Gruyere, fontina, or Gouda would all work well in this dish.
- Make it Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapenos to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of canned? A: Yes, you can certainly use fresh potatoes for this recipe. Simply peel and thinly slice the potatoes before layering them in the baking dish.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the scalloped potatoes up to a day in advance, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow the dish to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftover scalloped potatoes? A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through before serving.
Q: How do I know when the potatoes are cooked through? A: The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the cheese on top should be bubbly and golden brown.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: To make a keto-friendly version of this dish, replace the canned potatoes with thinly sliced turnips or radishes. Use heavy cream and low-carb cheeses such as mozzarella, provolone, or cream cheese in the sauce.
- Low-Carb Variation: Reduce the amount of flour used in the sauce or omit it altogether. Replace the heavy cream with a combination of chicken broth and unsweetened almond milk to lower the carb content.
In conclusion, our Easy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender potatoes, and flavorful seasonings, it’s a dish that will leave everyone at the table satisfied and smiling. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a holiday feast or as a comforting weeknight meal, these scalloped potatoes are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of this classic dish!
Indulge in the cheesy goodness of our Easy Scalloped Potatoes recipe—a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its simple preparation and irresistible taste, it’s the perfect addition to any meal. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch as it becomes a family favorite in no time!
Delight your taste buds with our Easy Scalloped Potatoes recipe! For more culinary inspiration and delicious recipes, be sure to explore our website. If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out. Happy cooking!
