Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary side dish into an extraordinary comfort food experience! These Skies Monterey Jack Scalloped Potatoes are not just a recipe; they're a creamy, cheesy revelation that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. Imagine layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes bathed in a luxurious cream sauce and blanketed with melted Monterey Jack cheese - a dish so irresistible, it'll become the star of your dinner table.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 80 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter, ensuring complete coverage of the bottom and sides.
- Wash and thinly slice the Yukon Gold potatoes using a mandoline or sharp knife, aiming for uniform slices approximately 1/8 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and consistent texture.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture thoroughly to blend the ingredients and create a smooth, seasoned cream base.
- Layer the potato slices in the buttered baking dish, slightly overlapping each slice. After each layer, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Continue layering potatoes and cheese, ensuring even distribution. Pour the cream mixture slowly over the layers, allowing it to seep between the potato slices.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, creating a tight seal to trap moisture and help potatoes cook evenly.
- Bake covered for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the dish to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnishing with fresh herbs like chives or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Slice Consistently: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to ensure uniform potato slices, which guarantees even cooking and a professional presentation.
- Don't Rush the Resting: Letting the dish rest for 10-15 minutes after baking allows the sauce to set and makes serving much easier.
- Cheese Selection: While Monterey Jack is delicious, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Gruyère or sharp cheddar for varied flavor profiles.
- Prevent Burning: Cover the dish with foil for the first 45 minutes to prevent the top from browning too quickly while ensuring the potatoes cook through.
- Enhance Flavor: For extra depth, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary between layers, or a pinch of nutmeg in the cream mixture.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared earlier in the day and refrigerated, then baked just before serving - perfect for dinner parties and holiday meals!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 85mg
