Scalloped Potatoes Recipe {Creamy And Delicious}

Hey there, it’s Jacob Allen from Beyond the Bayou Blog. Today, I’m excited to share a dish that brings back fond memories of cozy family gatherings—Scalloped Potatoes. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a journey back to the days of laughter around the dinner table and the comforting aroma wafting from the kitchen.

Back in those days, my family and I loved trying out new recipes together, always on the lookout for something delicious to add to our dinner rotation. One day, we stumbled upon the recipe for scalloped potatoes. Curious to taste its creamy goodness, we decided to give it a shot.

Gathered in our bustling kitchen, we each took on a task, slicing potatoes, stirring the cheese sauce, and preheating the oven. The air was filled with anticipation as we worked together to create this comforting dish. And let me tell you, serving it alongside a simple green salad elevated our dinner to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Now, whenever I make scalloped potatoes, it’s not just about the flavors; it’s about those cherished memories of family bonding and culinary adventures. Come join me in recreating those special moments with this timeless recipe!

Overview: How to Make Scalloped Potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe yields six hearty servings, making it great for family dinners or gatherings with friends. You’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools like an oven, baking dish, and saucepan to whip up this creamy and delicious side dish.

To start, thinly slice about four medium-sized potatoes and preheat your oven to 350°F. Then, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and whisk in flour, salt, and pepper to create a smooth mixture. Gradually add milk to the saucepan, stirring constantly until it thickens into a creamy sauce. Next, layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish and pour half of the cheese sauce over them. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes and sauce.

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. These scalloped potatoes are sure to be a hit at your next meal, with their creamy texture and cheesy flavor that everyone will love.

My 3 Personal Tips For Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Tip 1: When slicing the potatoes, aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking throughout the dish. This helps prevent some slices from being undercooked while others are overly mushy. Consistency is key!

Tip 2: Want to add an extra layer of flavor to your scalloped potatoes? Try incorporating different types of cheese into the sauce mixture. Sharp cheddar adds a nice tang, while gruyere brings a nutty richness. Experiment with your favorites to find the perfect cheesy combination.

Tip 3: To achieve that beautiful golden brown crust on top of your scalloped potatoes, consider finishing them under the broiler for a minute or two after they’re done baking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, and voila! You’ll have a crispy, cheesy topping that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

How can I make sure my scalloped potatoes turn out creamy and not dry?

Ah, ensuring creamy scalloped potatoes is all about the sauce and the cooking method. First, make sure your sauce is nice and thick before pouring it over the potatoes. This will help keep them moist as they bake. Also, covering the dish with foil while baking traps in steam, which prevents the potatoes from drying out. And here’s a pro tip: if you notice the top starting to brown too quickly, just tent it with foil until the potatoes are fully cooked through.

Recipe Variations You Can Definitely Try

Here are some tasty twists you can try to customize your homemade scalloped potatoes:

1. Add bacon or ham: For an extra savory kick, toss in some diced cooked bacon or ham. You can even combine both for an indulgent treat!

2. Add greens: Fresh kale or baby spinach can add a pop of color and nutrition. Simply stir a generous handful into the sauce before layering the potatoes.

3. Add pesto: Elevate the flavor with a burst of herby goodness by mixing in 1/4 cup of basil pesto into the sauce.

4. Use half sweet potatoes: For a delightful blend of flavors, try using a mix of Yukon gold and sweet potatoes. The sweet and savory combination is sure to be a hit.

5. Use a different cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, fontina, or gruyere to switch up the flavor profile. You can even sprinkle in some crumbled brie, goat cheese, or feta for added richness.

6. Use cream: For an even creamier texture, swap out half of the milk for heavy cream. It’s a decadent twist that takes this dish to the next level.

7. Make it gluten-free: Simply substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the standard flour. Alternatively, whisk 2 tablespoons of cornstarch into the cold milk before adding it to the sauce for a gluten-free option.

Foods You Can Serve With Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

• Roast chicken
• Grilled steak
• Steamed asparagus

Is Scalloped Potatoes Exactly Same as Potatoes au gratin?

Some might argue that this dish, with its cheese inclusion, leans more towards potatoes au gratin. Typically, traditional scalloped potatoes are baked in a creamy sauce without cheese.

However, in my household, what we always referred to as “scalloped potatoes” included cheese. So, in this recipe, I’ve opted to incorporate it. Whether you call them au gratin potatoes, potatoes au gratin, or cheesy scalloped potatoes, one thing’s for sure: they’re absolutely delicious, no matter the label!