Elevate your side dish game with our recipe for the Best Scalloped Potatoes. This classic comfort dish combines thinly sliced potatoes, layers of savory onions, and a velvety, seasoned sauce to create a mouthwatering masterpiece. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts, these scalloped potatoes are a surefire crowd-pleaser. Join us on a culinary journey as we guide you through the simple steps to achieve potato perfection.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
- ½ onion, thinly sliced
- 9 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided
- 6 tablespoons butter, diced and divided
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 3 cups whole milk, or as needed
Directions:
- Preparation:
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Layering:
Spread about 1/3 of the potato slices on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, followed by 1/3 of the sliced onions. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of flour over the potatoes and onions, and arrange 2 tablespoons of diced butter atop the flour. Season the entire layer with salt and pepper. Repeat this layering process twice more. - Milk Mixture:
Heat the whole milk in a saucepan until warm. Pour enough warm milk over the layers in the baking dish so that the top of the liquid is level with the final layer of potatoes. - Baking:
Bake in the preheated oven until the potatoes are tender, approximately 45 to 60 minutes.
Tips:
- Potato Thickness:
Ensure uniform potato slices for even cooking. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve the desired thickness. - Cheese Variation:
For a cheesy twist, sprinkle a layer of your favorite shredded cheese between the potato layers. - Herb Infusion:
Experiment with adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, our Best Scalloped Potatoes recipe delivers a delightful symphony of flavors and textures, making it a standout addition to any meal. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes, savory onions, and velvety sauce create a side dish that is both comforting and elegant. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these scalloped potatoes are a culinary triumph that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
PrintBest Scalloped Potatoes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Scalloped Potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, making them the ultimate comfort food side dish. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a rich, garlicky cream sauce and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion!
Ingredients
- 3 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, creating a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add the salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of the cheddar cheese until melted.
3. Assemble the Potatoes:
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle with half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cream sauce, and Parmesan cheese.
- Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, and the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Even Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices that cook evenly.
- Cheese Variations: Swap out cheddar for Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.