Scalloped potatoes, a classic comfort food, have been a beloved dish for generations. The term “scalloped” comes from the Old English word “collop,” meaning slices of meat, but in the context of this dish, it refers to thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce. This recipe for creamy and crispy scalloped potatoes combines the rich, velvety texture of the sauce with the satisfying crunch of perfectly baked potato edges. Whether you’re making a family dinner or a holiday feast, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
For the Creamy and Crispy Scalloped Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups whole milk or heavy cream (for an extra creamy texture)
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. The slices should be about 1/8 inch thick for the best texture. Set them aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for about 2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk or heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Add the salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg, and stir well.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Drain the potato slices and pat them dry with a paper towel. Arrange a layer of potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour a portion of the cream sauce over the potatoes and sprinkle with a mixture of cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all the potatoes, sauce, and cheese are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the Potatoes
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and thyme leaves if desired.
Tips and Variations
Tips:
- For extra flavor, try adding crispy bacon bits or cooked ham between the layers.
- If you prefer a less rich dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- To ensure even cooking, slice the potatoes uniformly. A mandoline slicer can be very helpful for this.
Variations:
- Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyère: Substitute cheddar cheese with Gruyère for a nuttier flavor.
- Herb-Infused Scalloped Potatoes: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to the cream sauce.
- Spicy Scalloped Potatoes: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce into the cream sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
Creamy and crispy scalloped potatoes are a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With their rich, velvety sauce and crispy edges, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is bound to impress.
Don’t forget to try out different variations and make this dish your own. We would love to hear your feedback and see your creations. Share your experience in the comments below, and don’t hesitate to share the recipe on social media. Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes like this one.