Scalloped Potatoes

How to Make Scalloped Potatoes

Making scalloped potatoes is simple, and the end result is so worth it. Here’s how to prepare this comforting dish:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes (if you prefer) and slice them thinly, about 1/8-inch thick. You can use a sharp knife, but a mandolin slicer will ensure even slices and save you time.
3. Make the Cream Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and milk, then bring to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or thyme. Let the sauce simmer until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Layer the Potatoes: Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour a little of the cream sauce over the potatoes and sprinkle with a generous amount of cheese. Repeat the layers until all the potatoes, sauce, and cheese are used up. Make sure the top layer is covered with cheese for that golden, crispy finish.
5. Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Let it Rest: Once out of the oven, let the scalloped potatoes rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the sauce to set. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your scalloped potatoes as a side dish with your favorite protein or as part of a festive meal. Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to complete the plate.

Tips, Shortcuts, and Variations

• Use a Slow Cooker: If you’re looking for a hands-off cooking method, you can make scalloped potatoes in a slow cooker. Simply layer the potatoes, sauce, and cheese in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until tender.
• Make It Ahead of Time: Scalloped potatoes can be made ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed.
• Add Protein: To make this a more substantial meal, you can add cooked chicken, bacon, or ham to the layers of potatoes for added flavor and protein.
• Cheese Variations: For extra flavor, try adding Gruyère, Swiss cheese, or Monterey Jack in place of or in addition to cheddar. Parmesan cheese can also be sprinkled on top for a crispy, golden crust.
• Vegan Option: For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based milk (such as almond or coconut milk), dairy-free butter, and vegan cheese. Make sure the flour used is gluten-free if you are following a gluten-free diet.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage can be added to the cream sauce for a deeper, more aromatic flavor.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make scalloped potatoes, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Mandolin or Knife: For slicing the potatoes evenly.
• Saucepan: For making the cream sauce.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish works best for this recipe.
• Whisk: To mix the flour and cream in the saucepan.
• Aluminum Foil: To cover the baking dish during the initial baking phase.

Storing Leftovers

Scalloped potatoes make great leftovers, and they store well for later meals.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Freezer: Scalloped potatoes can be frozen for longer storage. Let them cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Pairing Suggestions

Scalloped potatoes are rich and indulgent, so they pair well with lighter dishes or proteins:

• Main Dishes: Serve alongside roast chicken, steak, pork chops, or grilled salmon. The creamy potatoes are a perfect contrast to savory, well-seasoned meats.
• Salads: Pair with a light green salad, such as arugula with a lemon vinaigrette, to balance out the richness of the potatoes.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy richness of scalloped potatoes. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir works well.