Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a creamy, delicious side dish that is perfect for any meal. Made with tender russet potatoes, a rich cheese sauce, and a golden, crispy topping, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- Russet potatoes: 3 medium
- Butter: 3 tablespoons
- Garlic cloves: 2, chopped
- All-purpose flour: 5 tablespoons
- Milk: 2 cups (500 ml)
- Vegetable bouillon cube: 1, crumbled
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Mustard powder: 2-3 teaspoons
- Black pepper: to taste
- Cheddar cheese: a handful, shredded (optional)
- Gruyere cheese: for topping (optional)
- Cooking spray: for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice Potatoes:
- Select three medium russet potatoes and slice them 1/8 inch thick. Discard any slices that are too thin.
- Parboil Potatoes:
- Parboil the potato slices in boiling water for 3 minutes.
- Drain Potatoes:
- Drain the potatoes in a colander for about 20 seconds to remove excess water.
Make the Sauce:
- Melt Butter:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Garlic:
- Add the chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Whisk in Flour:
- Gradually whisk in the flour until smooth, cooking for about 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk:
- Slowly add the milk while whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Bouillon:
- Crumble the vegetable bouillon cube into the sauce and stir well.
- Season Sauce:
- Add the salt, mustard powder, and black pepper to taste.
- Thicken Sauce:
- Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens. This happens quickly, so keep an eye on it.
- Add Cheddar (Optional):
- Optionally, stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese and remove the sauce from heat.
Combine Potatoes and Sauce:
- Mix Together:
- In a large bowl, combine the parboiled potatoes with the sauce. Gently fold the potatoes until they are well-coated with the sauce.
Assemble and Bake:
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Grease a 9 x 9 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Add Potatoes:
- Transfer the potato and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Topping (Optional):
- Optionally, top with a layer of shredded Gruyere cheese.
- Cover and Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove Foil:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Rest and Serve:
- Cool Slightly:
- Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 to 20 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
- Enjoy:
- Enjoy your delicious and cheesy scalloped potatoes! This dish is perfect for any meal and is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Additional Information:
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes: Provide carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and protein, enhancing the flavor and creaminess of the dish.
- Milk: Adds calcium and protein, making the sauce rich and creamy.
Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes:
- Even Slices: Slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Thick Sauce: Ensure the sauce thickens properly before combining with the potatoes.
- Golden Top: Bake uncovered at the end to achieve a golden, crispy top.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Meat: Serve alongside roasted chicken, beef, or pork.
- Vegetarian Meal: Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete vegetarian meal.
- For Holidays: This dish is a perfect addition to holiday meals and special occasions.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a classic comfort food that everyone will love. With a creamy, cheesy sauce and tender, flavorful potatoes, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Try this recipe and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade scalloped potatoes!