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The Best Scalloped Potatoes: A Creamy, Cheesy Delight
When it comes to comfort food, scalloped potatoes are a classic that never disappoints. Perfectly creamy, cheesy, and tender, this dish has been a favorite for generations, often making an appearance at family gatherings, holiday dinners, and weeknight meals. The great thing about scalloped potatoes is that they are deceptively simple to make, but the result is nothing short of spectacular.
Whether you’re serving it as a side to roast meats or enjoying it on its own, Best Scalloped Potatoes will quickly become a dish you’ll make over and over again. Let’s dive into why this recipe is the best and how you can make it at home!
Why You’ll Love Scalloped Potatoes
- Rich and Creamy: The rich cream sauce that envelops the potatoes makes every bite indulgent and comforting.
- Cheesy Goodness: The combination of cheeses melts perfectly and adds that irresistible layer of flavor.
- Versatile: Scalloped potatoes pair well with almost any main dish, from roasted chicken and steak to ham or fish.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a decadent, satisfying dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday meal or just a cozy weeknight dinner, scalloped potatoes are the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for the Best Scalloped Potatoes
For the creamiest, cheesiest scalloped potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the dish and sautéing the garlic)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, but it adds a great flavor base)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk (for added creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for added herby flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for the topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How to Make the Best Scalloped Potatoes
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Start by peeling and slicing the potatoes into thin, even slices, about 1/8 inch thick. You can use a mandolin slicer to ensure uniform thickness, which helps the potatoes cook evenly. After slicing, place the potatoes in a bowl of water to prevent them from browning. Drain and pat them dry before using.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Next, pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. Stir the mixture, bringing it to a simmer. Once it starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until everything is well combined.
Add the cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until the cheese has melted completely, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. At this point, you can also add any herbs you like, such as thyme or rosemary, to enhance the flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter.
Layer the sliced potatoes in the prepared dish, overlapping them slightly. Once you’ve arranged one layer, pour a generous portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Continue layering the potatoes and sauce until you’ve used all of the ingredients, making sure the final layer is covered with the cheese sauce.
Step 4: Bake the Scalloped Potatoes
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. This will allow the potatoes to soften and cook through. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top of the potatoes. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 5: Let it Rest and Serve
Once your scalloped potatoes are beautifully golden and bubbly, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the dish firm up a bit and makes it easier to serve.
