Scalloped potatoes are a beloved comfort food dish that never goes out of style. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, they make for a mouthwatering side dish that complements any main course. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a special occasion, these best scalloped potatoes are sure to impress with their rich and indulgent flavor. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Preparation Steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish and set it aside.
2. Slice the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes if desired, then slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. Make sure the slices are approximately 1/8 inch thick. Place the sliced potatoes in a large bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning while you prepare the sauce.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly, until it forms a paste (a roux).
4. Add the Cream and Seasonings: Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the salt, pepper, dried thyme, and ground nutmeg. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
5. Layer the Potatoes and Cheese: Drain the sliced potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Arrange a layer of potato slices in the greased baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and sprinkle with a mixture of cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Repeat this process, creating several layers until you run out of potatoes. Reserve some cheese for the top.
6. Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Serve and Garnish: Once out of the oven, let the scalloped potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious homemade scalloped potatoes!
These creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes are a true crowd-pleaser and a perfect addition to any meal. Be prepared for compliments and requests for seconds when you serve this classic comfort food dish.
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