Forget those bland, boxed potato dishes! This homemade Scalloped Potatoes recipe is about to revolutionize your dinner table with creamy, cheesy layers of pure deliciousness that will have everyone begging for seconds. Imagine perfectly thin potato slices bathed in rich heavy cream, generously studded with sharp cheddar cheese, and baked to golden-brown perfection – this isn't just a side dish, it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously butter a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Wash potatoes thoroughly and use a sharp mandoline or knife to slice them uniformly thin, about 1/8 inch thick. Aim for consistent slice thickness to ensure even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk ingredients together until well blended, creating a seasoned cream mixture.
- Layer the potato slices in the buttered baking dish, slightly overlapping each slice. After each layer, drizzle some of the cream mixture and sprinkle a portion of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Continue layering potatoes, cream, and cheese until all ingredients are used, ensuring the top layer is covered with cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, creating a tight seal to trap moisture and help potatoes cook evenly.
- Place in preheated oven and bake covered for 45 minutes, allowing potatoes to become tender.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and potatoes are completely soft when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes serving easier.
Tips
- Slice Consistency is Key: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to ensure uniform potato slices. Consistent 1/8-inch thickness guarantees even cooking and a professional-looking dish.
- Don't Rush the Layering: Take your time when creating layers. Each potato slice should slightly overlap, and distribute cream and cheese evenly for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Foil is Your Friend: Covering the dish initially helps steam the potatoes and keep them moist. Removing the foil later allows for that irresistible golden-brown crispy top.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for 10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving much easier. Patience pays off in texture and presentation.
- Choose the Right Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with gruyère or a cheese blend for added complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 551kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 120mg
