Description
This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a creamy, rich, and comforting side dish made with layers of thinly sliced potatoes, a garlic-infused cream sauce, and a blend of cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Perfect for gatherings or a hearty family meal, it bakes to a golden, bubbly perfection that complements a variety of main dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
Cheeses
- 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Cream Sauce
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking your scalloped potatoes.
- Slice Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin 1/8-inch rounds using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife for even cooking.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and warm the mixture through without allowing it to boil.
- Layer Ingredients: Grease a baking dish and layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes, then sprinkle half of the cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, cream sauce, and cheeses.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook gently and the flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-35 minutes until the potatoes are tender, and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, letting the dish set for easier slicing and richer flavor melding.
Notes
- Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices to ensure even cooking.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though it may reduce creaminess slightly.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic variation.
- For extra richness, sprinkle additional cheese on top before the final baking step.
- Letting the dish rest helps it firm up, making it easier to cut into clean portions.
