Best Scalloped Potatoes

Best Scalloped Potatoes are a creamy, decadent side dish that transforms any meal into a celebration. With layers of tender potatoes bathed in rich heavy cream and topped with golden panko breadcrumbs, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Ideal for family gatherings or festive occasions, it promises to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easily Customizable: You can add herbs like thyme or sautéed onions between layers to enhance flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a casual weekend meal, these potatoes fit right in.
• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and cheese creates an irresistible creamy texture.
• Crowd-Pleasing Side: This dish serves 8, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.
• Simple Ingredients: Made from everyday ingredients, you can whip this up without special shopping.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make preparation a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Knife or mandoline
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and allows layers to meld perfectly.
• Knife or mandoline: Provides uniform potato slices for consistent cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Cream Mixture

• 2 cups heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, sliced
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

How to Make Best Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium baking dish. This helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and peel the potatoes. Then slice them thinly using either a knife or a mandoline. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Mix the Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed; this will be poured over your potato layers.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes

Layer potato slices in the prepared baking dish. Pour some of the cream mixture over each layer, then sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used.

Step 5: Add Topping

After layering all ingredients, top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter. This will create a deliciously crunchy topping when baked.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until golden brown on top.

Enjoy your Best Scalloped Potatoes as they bring warmth and delight to any meal!

How to Serve Best Scalloped Potatoes

Best Scalloped Potatoes are versatile and can be served in various ways to complement your meal. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, these creamy potatoes can elevate any dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Rich and satisfying, enjoy them on their own for a comforting meal.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair with grilled chicken or steak to balance the richness with smoky flavors.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Serve with a medley of roasted veggies for a colorful and nutritious plate.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added flavor and visual appeal.

At Holiday Gatherings

• A perfect side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter celebrations.

For Casual Family Dinners

• Ideal as a side for weeknight meals, bringing warmth to any family gathering.

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How to Perfect Best Scalloped Potatoes

Achieving the perfect Best Scalloped Potatoes requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out flawlessly every time.

• Use the right potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their starchy texture.
• Slice evenly: Ensure potato slices are uniform for even cooking and tenderness.
• Layer wisely: Alternate layers of cream mixture and cheese for balanced flavor throughout.
• Avoid sogginess: Let the dish rest after baking; this allows it to set properly.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or sautéed onions between layers for extra taste.
• Watch the golden crust: Bake uncovered towards the end for that perfect crispy topping.

Best Side Dishes for Best Scalloped Potatoes

To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving Best Scalloped Potatoes alongside other delightful dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These caramelized sprouts provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy scalloped potatoes.

2. Honey Glazed Carrots
   Sweet and tender carrots add color and a touch of sweetness that complements the potatoes beautifully.

3. Garlic Green Beans
   Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a fresh, vibrant side that balances the richness of the potatoes.

4. Caesar Salad
   A tangy Caesar salad provides crispness and acidity, making it an excellent pairing for creamy sides.

5. Baked Ham
   The savory flavors of baked ham pair wonderfully with rich scalloped potatoes, making it a classic combination.

6. Cornbread Muffins
   Light and fluffy cornbread muffins add a delightful sweetness, perfect for scooping up creamy bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best Scalloped Potatoes can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

• Not slicing potatoes evenly: Uneven potato slices can lead to inconsistent cooking. Use a mandoline for precise slices.
• Skipping the cheese: Cheese adds flavor and creaminess. Don’t skip it; layer it generously between the potatoes.
• Using low-fat cream: Low-fat alternatives won’t provide the same richness as heavy cream. Stick with heavy cream for best results.
• Under-seasoning: Potatoes need seasoning to enhance their flavor. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper throughout the layers.
• Forgetting to cover while baking: Covering helps cook the potatoes evenly and prevents over-browning. Remove the foil only in the last part of baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Best Scalloped Potatoes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Scalloped Potatoes

• For longer storage, freeze your scalloped potatoes in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Best Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Best Scalloped Potatoes.

How do I make my Best Scalloped Potatoes creamy?

Adding enough heavy cream is key. Ensure that every layer of potatoes is coated with the cream mixture.

Can I make Best Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them a day before, then bake them when ready to serve.

What type of potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their starchy content which yields a creamy texture.

Can I add vegetables to my Best Scalloped Potatoes?

Absolutely! Consider adding sautéed onions or spinach between the layers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

The Best Scalloped Potatoes are not just a side dish; they are comfort food that elevates any meal. Their creamy texture and rich flavor make them perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding herbs, spices, or different cheeses based on your preferences!

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Best Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, transforming any meal into a special occasion. This creamy, layered dish features tender potatoes enveloped in rich heavy cream and topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs. Each bite delivers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Perfect for holidays or family gatherings, these scalloped potatoes are easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, sliced
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium baking dish.
2. Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes using a knife or mandoline.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Layer the potato slices in the baking dish; pour cream mixture over each layer and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
5. After layering all ingredients, top with panko mixed with melted butter.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (approx. 180g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 55mg