Make your holiday meals special with this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe. It has layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes in a rich, cheesy sauce. This homemade dish is a hit at Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
It’s quick to prepare, with only 20 minutes of prep time. And it’s ready in 1 hour and 30 minutes. This recipe makes 12 servings, perfect for big gatherings.
Key Takeaways
- Creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes are a classic holiday side dish
- This recipe yields 12 servings and takes just 1.5 hours to prepare
- Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes
- A mandoline slicer makes slicing the potatoes quick and even
- Scalloped potatoes are baked in a creamy sauce, unlike au gratin which has a crunchy topping
What Are Scalloped Potatoes: A Classic Side Dish Introduction
Scalloped potatoes are a favorite side dish that has been around for a long time. They are made with thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce. This recipe adds a twist by using Parmigiano-Reggiano and Gruyère cheeses, giving it an au gratin spin.
Difference Between Scalloped and Au Gratin Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are baked in a creamy sauce without cheese. Au gratin potatoes, on the other hand, have lots of cheese, like Gruyère or cheddar. This recipe combines both, making a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful.
Why This Recipe Works
The sauce, made with vegetable broth and whole milk, is creamy but not too rich. Fresh thyme adds a unique flavor to this creamy potato dish. The cheese on top makes the potatoes golden and bubbly, adding to the dish’s appeal.
“This recipe for scalloped potatoes is a winner! The layers of tender potatoes in a rich, creamy sauce are simply divine.”
– Food Critic, Gourmet Magazine
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes
To make delicious scalloped potatoes, you need the right ingredients. Yukon Gold or yellow potatoes are the base, known for their creamy texture and buttery taste. A sauce made from butter, flour, vegetable broth, and whole milk adds flavor and creaminess.
Fresh thyme brings depth, while shredded cheddar cheese adds a tangy, nutty taste. Salt and pepper are key for enhancing the flavor. With these ingredients, you can make a scalloped potato dish that’s sure to impress.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Yukon Gold potatoes | 3 pounds |
| Salted butter | 6 tablespoons |
| Diced onions | 1 1/4 cups |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup |
| Milk | 3 1/2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Grated cheddar cheese | 1 1/2 cups |
| Fresh thyme | As needed |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Yukon Gold potatoes, cheddar cheese, and fresh thyme create a perfect mix of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce, made from milk and cream, holds the layers together. This makes the dish rich and indulgent.
“Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food that can elevate any meal. The key is to use the right potatoes and create a luscious, creamy sauce that complements the starchy goodness of the dish.”
Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed
To make delicious scalloped potatoes, you need a few important tools. The main piece is a 9×13-inch baking dish. It’s the perfect size for this recipe. You can also use a mandoline slicer for thin potato slices, or a sharp kitchen knife if you prefer.
You’ll need a medium skillet for the creamy cheese sauce. Don’t forget a whisk and basic measuring tools. A cheese grater is optional but handy for grating cheese.
Recommended Baking Dish Size
The classic 9×13-inch baking dish is the best choice for scalloped potatoes. It’s big enough for all the layers to cook evenly. This size is great for serving a big group.
Optional Tools for Easier Preparation
- Mandoline slicer – for uniform, paper-thin potato slices
- Cheese grater – to freshly grate the cheeses for the topping
With these tools, you’re ready to make creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes. The right tools help get the perfect texture and taste.
Scalloped Potatoes Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the best scalloped potatoes is about mixing flavors and textures. Begin by layering potatoes in a dish. Then, create a creamy sauce to top them. Finish with cheese for a golden crust. Here’s how to make this tasty side dish:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Slice 4 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
- In a saucepan, make a cream sauce by melting 3 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour. Then, add 1 cup of chicken or vegetable stock and 2 cups of whole milk, stirring until thick.
- Season the sauce with 1 1/2 teaspoons of Kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme leaves.
- Layer half of the potatoes and 1 sliced onion in a 2-quart baking dish. Pour half of the sauce over, then sprinkle with 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan.
- Repeat the layers of potatoes, onion, sauce, and cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 35-40 minutes. The potatoes should be tender, and the cheese golden.
- Let the dish stand for 20 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set.
Follow these steps to create the perfect creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes. They’re sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Creamy, Tender Potato Layers
To get the perfect scalloped potatoes, follow a few key tips. First, choose the right potato. Yukon Gold or yellow potatoes are best because they’re creamy and buttery. Stay away from russet potatoes, as they can get too mealy.
Best Potato Varieties to Use
Yukon Gold potatoes are the top choice for scalloped potatoes. They have a rich, buttery taste and a tender texture. Yellow potatoes are also great, with similar qualities to Yukon Golds.
Proper Slicing Techniques
It’s important to slice potatoes thinly and evenly. Aim for slices about 1/8-inch thick. A mandoline slicer is the best tool for this. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife and steady hand will work too.
Sauce Consistency Guidelines
The creamy sauce is key to scalloped potatoes’ rich flavor. Make sure the sauce coats the back of a spoon after 2-3 minutes of cooking. Don’t let it boil, as it can become too thin and watery.
By using these tips, you’ll make tender, creamy scalloped potatoes every time.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Preparing scalloped potatoes in advance saves time and ensures a delicious side dish. You can make this recipe up to 2 days before, perfect for busy days or special events.
To prep ahead, assemble and bake the potatoes as the recipe says. Let them cool, then cover with foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Before serving, let the dish warm up at room temperature while your oven heats to 350°F. Bake for about 30 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
Leftover scalloped potatoes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or microwave, stirring often, until creamy.
For freezing, cooked scalloped potatoes can last up to 3 months. But, the dairy sauce might change the potatoes’ texture. Freezing is best for reheating in the oven to keep the potatoes creamy.
“Preparing scalloped potatoes in advance is a game-changer, allowing you to enjoy this classic side dish with minimal last-minute effort.”
Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerated scalloped potatoes: Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- Frozen scalloped potatoes: Thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours, then bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Scalloped potatoes are great with many dishes, perfect for holidays or everyday meals. They go well with Easter dinner, Thanksgiving side dish, or Christmas menu. This creamy casserole is good with both big and small main courses.
Holiday Menu Ideas
At holidays, scalloped potatoes are a hit with Easter ham, Thanksgiving turkey, or Christmas roast. They also pair well with green bean casserole, dinner rolls, and a simple green salad. This makes for a complete and tasty holiday meal.
Complementary Side Dishes
Scalloped potatoes are also great with everyday meals. They go well with beef, chicken, fish, or pork. Add a fresh salad like fennel or spinach to balance it. The potatoes’ creamy texture also goes well with roasted veggies like broccolini or Brussels sprouts.
| Main Dish | Complementary Side Dishes |
|---|---|
| Ham | Scalloped Potatoes, Green Bean Casserole, Dinner Rolls, Green Salad |
| Thanksgiving Turkey | Scalloped Potatoes, Stuffing, Roasted Vegetables, Cranberry Sauce |
| Christmas Roast | Scalloped Potatoes, Glazed Carrots, Yorkshire Pudding, Gravy |
| Beef, Chicken, Fish, Pork | Scalloped Potatoes, Fennel Salad, Roasted Broccolini, Dinner Rolls |
Scalloped potatoes are a versatile side dish for many meals. Their creamy texture and comforting taste are perfect with both big and small main courses. They ensure a balanced and enjoyable meal.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Getting perfect scalloped potatoes can be tricky. But, with a few tips, you can fix common problems and enjoy a creamy side dish. Let’s look at some common issues when making scalloped potatoes.
Undercooked Potatoes
If your potatoes are still hard after baking, don’t worry. Just cover the dish with foil and bake some more. This way, the potatoes will cook well without drying out the top.
Watery Sauce
Watery sauce? Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken. You can also add flour or cornstarch to the sauce for better consistency.
Burnt Cheese Topping
To avoid burnt cheese, watch the dish closely towards the end. If the cheese browns too fast, cover it with foil. This keeps the potatoes cooked and the cheese crust perfect.
Even layers of potatoes and sauce are key for even cooking. By fixing these issues, you’ll have creamy scalloped potatoes every time.
| Common Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Undercooked Potatoes | Cover the dish with foil and continue baking until potatoes are tender. |
| Watery Sauce | Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken. You can also add a thickener like flour or cornstarch. |
| Burnt Cheese Topping | Cover the dish with foil if the cheese is browning too quickly to prevent burning. |
Follow these tips to make sure your scalloped potatoes are perfect. You’ll get a creamy sauce and a delicious cheese topping every time.
Conclusion
Homemade scalloped potatoes are a favorite, comforting side dish for any meal. They’re especially loved during holiday times. This classic recipe combines creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and melted cheese. It’s a dish that will win hearts in your family.
This side dish is great for any time, from holidays to weeknight dinners. With make-ahead options and many ways to serve, it’s always a hit. By following this guide, you’ll make scalloped potatoes that are both delicious and perfectly cooked.
Let’s cherish the warmth and comfort of this iconic dish. It’s perfect for holiday feasts or adding elegance to any meal. These homemade scalloped potatoes will surely impress your guests and loved ones.
FAQ
What is the difference between scalloped and au gratin potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes don’t have cheese, but au gratin potatoes do. This recipe combines tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and melted cheddar cheese.
What are the key ingredients in this scalloped potatoes recipe?
You’ll need Yukon Gold or yellow potatoes, butter, flour, and vegetable broth. Also, whole milk, garlic, onion, fresh thyme, and cheddar cheese are important.
What size baking dish is recommended for this recipe?
A 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect for this recipe.
Can a mandoline slicer be used to slice the potatoes?
Yes, a mandoline slicer can help slice potatoes evenly at 1/8-inch thickness. A sharp knife works well too.
How do I layer the potatoes, sauce, and cheese for best results?
Start with half the potatoes and onions in the dish. Then, add half the sauce and cheese. Repeat these layers for even flavor.
Can scalloped potatoes be made in advance?
Yes, you can assemble and bake them up to 2 days ahead. Cool them, refrigerate, and reheat in the oven when you’re ready.
What should I serve with scalloped potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes go great with holiday meals like Easter ham or Thanksgiving turkey. Pair them with green bean casserole, dinner rolls, and a simple salad for a full spread.
What can I do if the potatoes are undercooked or the sauce is watery?
If the potatoes are not tender, cover the dish with foil and bake longer. For a watery sauce, let it rest before serving to thicken.