Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with these Garlic Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this dish is sure to steal the show at any meal. With layers of thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes, fragrant garlic, and sharp cheddar cheese, each bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Whether you’re serving them up for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, these scalloped potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit. Join us as we uncover the secrets to making this mouthwatering dish, along with cooking tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs of Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Layer Potatoes: Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, followed by half of the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the potato mixture.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, onions, garlic, salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese.
- Combine Cream and Broth: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth until well combined.
- Pour Mixture Over Potatoes: Pour the cream and broth mixture evenly over the layered potatoes, ensuring that all the potatoes are coated.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Uncover and Broil: Remove the foil and switch the oven to broil. Broil the potatoes for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh thyme, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Potato Thickness: To ensure even cooking, slice the potatoes thinly, approximately 1/8 inch thick.
- Cheese Variation: Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavor combinations. Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack are excellent alternatives to cheddar.
- Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy texture, add an additional 1/2 cup of heavy cream or substitute some of the cream with sour cream.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the Yukon Gold potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative.
- Use full-fat heavy cream and low-carb chicken or vegetable broth to keep the dish keto-friendly.
- Replace the onion with sliced leeks or shallots for a lower-carb option.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of potatoes used in the recipe and increase the proportion of onions and garlic for added flavor.
- Use a combination of cauliflower and turnips in place of the potatoes to further reduce the carb content.
- Opt for a reduced-fat cheddar cheese or use less cheese overall to lower the calorie and carb count.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the scalloped potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze leftover scalloped potatoes? A: While scalloped potatoes can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, transfer the cooled potatoes to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use a different type of potato? A: Yes, you can use other varieties of potatoes such as Russet or red potatoes if Yukon Gold potatoes are not available. However, keep in mind that different types of potatoes may have varying textures and flavors.
Q: Can I make this dish without cheese? A: While cheese adds richness and flavor to the dish, you can omit it if desired or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative for a lactose-free version of the recipe.
Elevate your side dish game with the irresistible flavors of Garlic Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, these potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether served alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your dinner table.
Experience the joy of homemade comfort food with this simple and delicious recipe. From its creamy texture to its cheesy goodness, every bite is a taste of pure indulgence. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the flavors of this classic dish!
Treat yourself and your loved ones to the ultimate comfort food experience with these mouthwatering Garlic Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes. Your taste buds will thank you!
