Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with Crispy Cheese Edges Delight

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy scalloped potatoes with crispy cheese edges are a wonderful side dish that everyone can enjoy. This recipe is both comforting and decadent, making it perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or simply a cozy dinner at home. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor blend perfectly with the tender potatoes, creating a delightful dish that can make any meal special. The crispy cheese edges add a nice contrast to the soft potatoes, making every bite a little bit different. Plus, this recipe is straightforward and requires basic ingredients you might already have in your kitchen.

The beauty of creamy scalloped potatoes lies in their versatility. They go well with a wide range of main dishes, from roasted meats to grilled vegetables. This dish not only complements the flavors of a hearty meal but also adds a richness that can turn a simple dinner into a feast. Not to mention, the preparation is simple enough that even beginners can whip this up with minimal hassle.

How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with Crispy Cheese Edges Delight

Making creamy scalloped potatoes is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps and enjoy a delicious side dish that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

To make creamy scalloped potatoes, you will need the following:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 2 cups Heavy Cream
• 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper

Directions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will help ensure that the potatoes cook through while allowing the cheese to get that beautiful golden brown color on top.

2. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the Yukon Gold potatoes. Slice them thinly, aiming for about 1/8 inch thick. For best results, use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer to get even slices. Even slices help ensure that every potato cooks at the same rate.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; you want it soft and aromatic.

   Next, sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the pan to create a roux. Stir the flour into the butter mixture and let it cook for another minute. This step makes the sauce thick and creamy. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring that no lumps form. Keep stirring and cooking until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.

   Once the mixture is thickened, add the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

4. Layer the Potatoes: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the first layer of potatoes. Then, add the remaining potato slices and pour the rest of the creamy mixture on top, ensuring all the potatoes are covered.

5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in while the potatoes cook. Bake this glorious creation for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil to let the top get crispy. Bake for another 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning.

6. Cool and Serve: Once finished, let the creamy scalloped potatoes cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers set a little so that the dish holds together when you scoop it out.

How to Serve Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

When it comes to serving creamy scalloped potatoes, you have several options. This dish is versatile enough to pair with many main courses. Here are a few ideas:

• With Roasted Chicken or Turkey: Creamy scalloped potatoes make a great accompaniment to roasted meats. The rich flavors contrast beautifully with the savory taste of the chicken or turkey.

• With Grilled Steak: Add a hearty piece of grilled steak alongside your scalloped potatoes. The sauce and onions complement the steak nicely, creating a filling meal.

• With a Side Salad: For a lighter meal, pair your scalloped potatoes with a fresh side salad. The freshness of the vegetables cuts through the creaminess of the potatoes, giving you a balanced plate.

• As Part of a Holiday Spread: This dish is a hit during holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. It can easily be made ahead of time and warmed up for serving.

How to Store Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

If you have leftovers of this creamy goodness, storage is simple! Here’s how to make sure your scalloped potatoes stay fresh:

• In the Refrigerator: Allow the dish to cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. The creamy scalloped potatoes can last in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.

• In the Freezer: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the scalloped potatoes. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven.

When reheating, you might want to cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from burning. Heat in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, usually around 350°F (175°C).

Tips to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

• Slice Evenly: Make sure your potato slices are uniform in thickness to promote even cooking. Consider using a mandoline if you have one.

• Be Creative with Cheese: While Parmesan cheese is a classic choice, experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for different flavor profiles.

• Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions between the layers for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Season Well: Don’t skimp on seasoning. Adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste to enhance the flavor of the dish.

• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Just assemble everything and cover it in the fridge until ready to bake.

Variation

You can make creamy scalloped potatoes your own by using various ingredients. Here are a few variations to try:

• Bacon Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the layers for a smoky flavor. Substitute some of the Parmesan with shredded cheddar cheese for an even richer taste.

• Herb-Infused Potatoes: Go beyond thyme; try adding rosemary, parsley, or even sage to the cream mixture for an aromatic twist.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños to the creamy sauce for a touch of heat.

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

FAQs

Can I make scalloped potatoes the day before?

Yes, you can prepare scalloped potatoes a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake it according to the recipe instructions. You may need to increase the baking time if the dish is cold from the fridge.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Certainly! While Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture and flavor, you can also use Russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that they have a higher starch content, which may affect the creaminess.

How do I know when the scalloped potatoes are done baking?

The scalloped potatoes are done when they are bubbling around the edges, the top is golden brown, and the potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork. If they are still firm, you can cover them and bake for a bit longer.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover scalloped potatoes for up to two months. Ensure they are in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

While you can use milk instead of heavy cream, keep in mind that the dish may not be as rich and creamy. You could consider using a combination of milk and cream or a higher fat milk, like whole milk, for a similar texture.

Enjoy the delightful experience of creamy scalloped potatoes with crispy cheese edges. This dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!