Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort dish that has graced dinner tables for generations. Their creamy, rich texture and delightful flavor make them a favorite side dish for many occasions. This recipe offers a perfect balance of tender potatoes enveloped in a luscious, savory sauce that will leave you and your guests craving more.
Ingredients and Preparation
For this delightful dish, you’ll need 3 pounds of white potatoes, sliced about â…›-inch thick, ¼ cup of butter, 1 large diced onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 ¼ teaspoons of salt (divided), and ½ teaspoon of pepper (divided). Selecting fresh, firm potatoes ensures the best texture, while a high-quality chicken broth enhances the overall flavor. Proper preparation of these ingredients is key to achieving the perfect scalloped potatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350˚F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent the potatoes from sticking and to ensure an even bake. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, seamless serving experience.
Making the Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, forming a roux that will thicken the sauce.
Gradually add the milk and chicken broth mixture to the saucepan. Start with small amounts, whisking continuously to avoid lumps and maintain a smooth consistency. As the sauce thickens, continue adding the liquid slowly, ensuring it remains velvety. Once all the liquid is incorporated, raise the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, still whisking. Add ½ teaspoon of salt and ⅛ teaspoon of pepper, allowing the sauce to boil for 1 minute before removing it from heat.
Assembling the Dish
Layer one-third of the potato slices in the prepared baking dish, seasoning each layer with ¼ teaspoon of salt and ⅛ teaspoon of pepper. Pour one-third of the cream sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Repeat the layering process, finishing with a generous layer of cream sauce on top. This method ensures each potato slice is well-coated and flavorful.
Baking Process
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This initial baking time allows the potatoes to soften and absorb the flavors of the sauce. After 45 minutes, uncover the dish and continue baking for an additional 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender. For an extra crispy top, broil the dish for 3-4 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
- Using a mandoline for even potato slices: A mandoline ensures uniformly thin potato slices, which cook evenly and create a professional appearance.
- Substitutions for milk and broth: You can use plant-based milk and vegetable broth for a vegan version without compromising flavor.
- Ensuring a smooth, lump-free sauce: Whisk continuously and add liquid gradually to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Timing tips for perfectly cooked potatoes: Check for tenderness by inserting a fork; if it slides in easily, the potatoes are done.
- Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time? Yes, prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
- Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes? Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well. Each type offers a slightly different texture but will still yield delicious results.
- How Can I Add Extra Flavor? Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or sprinkle grated cheese between the layers for added richness.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats such as beef or chicken. Grilled vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, provide a nice contrast to the creamy potatoes. For a lighter option, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish. As for beverages, a crisp white wine or a light beer complements the flavors nicely.
This scalloped potatoes recipe is a testament to the comfort and joy that simple, well-prepared food can bring. The combination of tender potatoes and creamy sauce is irresistibly delicious. Share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors together.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds white potatoes, sliced about â…›-inch thick
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ¼ teaspoon salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon pepper, divided
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350˚F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Set it aside for later use.
To Make the Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring it’s well combined.
Gradually add the milk and chicken broth mixture to the saucepan, starting with small amounts and whisking continuously. The sauce will thicken initially; keep adding the liquid slowly, whisking to maintain a smooth consistency. Once all the liquid is incorporated, raise the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil, still whisking. Stir in ½ teaspoon of salt and ⅛ teaspoon of pepper, allowing the sauce to boil for 1 minute before removing it from heat.
Assembly
Layer one-third of the potato slices in the prepared baking dish, seasoning each layer with ¼ teaspoon of salt and ⅛ teaspoon of pepper. Pour one-third of the cream sauce over the potatoes. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cream sauce on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, uncover the dish and continue baking for an additional 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender. For an extra crispy top, broil the dish for 3-4 minutes.
Let the dish rest for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful scalloped potatoes!
Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 pounds white potatoes sliced about â…›-inch thick
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 large onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ¼ teaspoon salt divided
- ½ teaspoon pepper divided
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350˚F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Set it aside for later use.
To Make the Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring it’s well combined.
- Gradually add the milk and chicken broth mixture to the saucepan, starting with small amounts and whisking continuously. The sauce will thicken initially; keep adding the liquid slowly, whisking to maintain a smooth consistency. Once all the liquid is incorporated, raise the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil, still whisking. Stir in ½ teaspoon of salt and ⅛ teaspoon of pepper, allowing the sauce to boil for 1 minute before removing it from heat.
Assembly
- Layer one-third of the potato slices in the prepared baking dish, seasoning each layer with ¼ teaspoon of salt and ⅛ teaspoon of pepper. Pour one-third of the cream sauce over the potatoes. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cream sauce on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, uncover the dish and continue baking for an additional 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender. For an extra crispy top, broil the dish for 3-4 minutes.
- Let the dish rest for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful scalloped potatoes!