Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food that brings together layers of tender potatoes, rich cream, and savory cheese. This dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress with a hearty and delicious side. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these delightful scalloped potatoes step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp of unsalted butter
- Cracked black pepper to taste
- Approximately 3/4 to 1 cup of Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Kosher salt to taste
- 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream
- 6 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled, cleaned, and thinly sliced lengthwise
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice Potatoes: Peel, clean, and thinly slice the russet potatoes lengthwise. Aim for even, thin slices to ensure uniform cooking.
- Mince Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce
- Heat Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Cream and Seasonings: Pour in the heavy cream, then add the dried thyme, cracked black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer Potatoes: In a greased baking dish, arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes. Pour a portion of the cream sauce over the potatoes and sprinkle with some grated Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers of potatoes, cream sauce, and Parmesan cheese until all the potatoes are used, finishing with a generous layer of Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and Brown: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Serving
- Serve: Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional cracked black pepper or fresh thyme if desired. Serve hot as a side dish to your favorite main course.
Cooking Notes
- Cheese: While Parmesan cheese adds a nice flavor, you can also use a mix of cheeses like Gruyere, Cheddar, or Mozzarella for a different taste.
- Potatoes: Ensure the potato slices are thin and even to achieve the best texture. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for this task.
- Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the scalloped potatoes a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them fresh before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze scalloped potatoes? A: It’s not recommended to freeze scalloped potatoes as the texture of the potatoes may change upon thawing. However, you can prepare and bake them fresh for the best results.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of scalloped potatoes, follow these modifications:
- Potatoes: Substitute the potatoes with thinly sliced turnips or cauliflower for a lower carb count.
- Cream: Use heavy cream as is, but ensure no milk is added to keep it keto-friendly.
Scalloped potatoes are a classic and comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich, creamy sauce and tender layers of potatoes, they’re sure to be a hit at your next meal. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, homemade side that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying!
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