Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this dish is a perfect side for any meal, whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner. The thinly sliced potatoes absorb the rich, garlicky cream sauce, while the cheese creates a golden, bubbly crust that’s hard to resist. This recipe is simple yet indulgent, making it a go-to for satisfying side dishes.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream or milk (heavy cream for extra richness, milk for a lighter version)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the potatoes from sticking.
2. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Once the garlic is softened, pour in the heavy cream (or milk) and bring it to a gentle simmer. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and the fresh thyme (if using). Stir everything together, then remove from heat. The sauce should be creamy and flavorful, but not too thick at this stage.
3. Layer the Potatoes:
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of your greased baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheese. The key is to make sure every layer is well-coated with the creamy sauce and cheese.
4. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften and absorb the cream. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes until the top is golden, bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the scalloped potatoes rest for a few minutes to firm up before serving. The creamy cheese sauce will thicken as it cools slightly, making it easier to serve. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme if desired for a bit of color and extra flavor.
Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes:
- Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice because their high starch content makes them perfect for absorbing the creamy sauce. They also hold their shape well while baking.
- Thin Slices: Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly, about 1/8-inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the cream sauce without becoming too soggy.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance! Simply assemble everything and store it in the fridge. On baking day, just pop it in the oven and bake as instructed.
- For Extra Crispiness: If you like a crispier top, sprinkle a bit of extra cheese or breadcrumbs on the top of the potatoes during the final 10 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions:
Scalloped potatoes are rich and hearty, making them a perfect side dish for a variety of meals:
- Pair them with roast chicken, steak, or grilled pork chops for a well-rounded dinner.
- Serve with salads or vegetable dishes for a lighter, more balanced meal.
- They’re also great as a comforting side for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
This recipe for scalloped potatoes guarantees a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dish that will be loved by everyone at the table. Enjoy the rich, decadent layers of flavor with every bite!