Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Introduction:

Creamy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. With their rich, velvety sauce and tender potatoes, this dish is perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any occasion where you want a side that will impress. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a creamy mixture of butter, cream, and cheese, then topped with a crispy golden crust that adds a delightful texture. Scalloped potatoes are simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them a great choice for busy cooks who still want to serve something luxurious and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 6 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of whole milk
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling and thinly slicing the potatoes. You can use a mandolin slicer for even slices, which will help them cook evenly. Set the sliced potatoes aside in a bowl of water to prevent them from browning while you prepare the sauce.

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2. Make the Cream Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux.

3. Add the Liquids: Gradually add the heavy cream and milk to the roux, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.

4. Layer the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Drain the potatoes and arrange a layer of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish. Pour a small amount of the cream sauce over the potatoes, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.

5. Repeat the Layers: Continue layering the potatoes, cream sauce, and cheese, making sure to end with a final layer of cheese on top. Pour any remaining sauce over the top layer of potatoes, ensuring that the dish is evenly coated.

6. Bake the Scalloped Potatoes: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.

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7. Garnish and Serve: Once the scalloped potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Conclusion: These creamy scalloped potatoes are the perfect side dish to complement any main course. The combination of tender potatoes, rich cream sauce, and melted cheese makes for an irresistible comfort food that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether served alongside a roast, chicken, or steak, this dish is guaranteed to impress with its creamy texture and bold flavor. Perfect for any occasion, these scalloped potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your recipe collection.