Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting the most heavenly Scalloped Potatoes Recipe you’ll ever encounter. Rich, creamy, and undeniably cheesy, this dish, made with a luscious blend of heavy cream, whole milk, and two types of shredded cheese, is an absolute masterpiece. Just ask anyone who’s tried it – it’s often hailed as the best for a reason!
While incredible on its own, this recipe truly shines when you add a touch of savory baked ham, especially perfect for utilizing those delicious Easter leftovers. These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a symphony of flavors and textures – tender potatoes, a rich, seasoned sauce, and perfectly melted cheese. Whether you make a batch fresh or freeze some ham for a future craving of Scalloped Potatoes with Ham, each bite promises creamy, savory, and irresistible perfection.
The Magic Behind Our Scalloped Potatoes: Why This Recipe Stands Out
There are countless scalloped potato recipes out there, but this particular one holds a special place in the hearts of those who try it. Here’s why it’s destined to become your go-to:
- Inspired by Culinary Experts: This exceptional recipe draws inspiration from an episode of America’s Test Kitchen, a testament to its meticulous testing and perfected technique. This ensures a foolproof method that delivers consistently outstanding results every time you prepare it.
- A Delicious Solution for Leftovers: If you find yourself with leftover Glazed Ham after holidays like Easter, this dish offers a brilliant and far more exciting alternative to endless ham sandwiches. It transforms simple leftovers into a gourmet experience, making it a sustainable and flavorful choice.
- Achieve Unrivaled Tenderness and Creaminess: The secret lies in a method that guarantees perfectly tender potatoes enveloped in an incredibly rich, luxurious, and creamy sauce. The potatoes are cooked just right – soft but not mushy – creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is pure perfection.
- A Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish: Whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday feast, or a special gathering, these scalloped potatoes consistently receive rave reviews. Their comforting and indulgent nature makes them a beloved addition to any meal, promising satisfied smiles around the table.
Unlocking the Flavor: Essential Ingredients for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes
The success of any great dish begins with quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes our scalloped potatoes truly exceptional:
- Kitchen Staples for the Base:
- Butter: Provides a rich base for sautéing and contributes to the overall creamy texture and flavor of the sauce.
- Onion (minced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, becoming tender and almost dissolving into the sauce.
- Fresh Garlic (minced): Aromatic and essential, garlic infuses the entire dish with a warm, savory note.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Crucial for seasoning the potatoes and the sauce, enhancing all other flavors. Adjust to your preference.
- For the Ultimate Creamy Sauce:
- Heavy Cream: This is the cornerstone of richness, providing an unparalleled velvety texture and decadent mouthfeel to the sauce. It’s non-negotiable for true indulgence.
- Whole Milk: Complements the heavy cream, adding further richness and body to the sauce without being overly dense. Its higher fat content is key compared to skim or 2% milk.
- The Star of the Show: Potatoes:
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: These are highly recommended due to their waxy texture and lower starch content, which helps them hold their shape better when sliced and cooked. They are also naturally moister and more succulent than starchy russet potatoes, ensuring a creamy rather than mushy consistency in the finished dish.
- A Symphony of Cheeses:
- Cheddar Cheese (shredded): A classic choice, cheddar offers a sharp, familiar, and comforting flavor that melts beautifully, contributing to that irresistible golden-brown crust. Shredding it yourself ensures it melts more evenly and avoids anti-caking agents found in pre-shredded varieties.
- Gruyere Cheese (shredded): This Swiss cheese brings a nutty, earthy, and slightly sweet complexity that elevates the flavor profile. Its excellent melting properties contribute to a smooth, cohesive cheese layer. Like cheddar, shredding fresh is best.
- Aromatic Fresh Herbs:
- Fresh Thyme: Earthy and slightly peppery, fresh thyme adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that perfectly balances the richness of the cream and cheese. If using dried thyme, use about one-third of the amount of fresh.
- Optional Savory Addition:
- Chopped, Cooked Ham: A fantastic way to add a savory, salty dimension and make this a heartier main course. It’s especially perfect for repurposing holiday ham leftovers, adding another layer of flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Own Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Creating these exquisite scalloped potatoes is simpler than you might think. Follow these clear steps to achieve a perfectly tender and cheesy dish every time:
Expert Tips for Flawless Scalloped Potatoes Every Time
Achieving perfectly cooked scalloped potatoes doesn’t have to be a guessing game. This recipe is designed to be foolproof, eliminating common pitfalls. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish is spectacular:
- The Secret to Tender Potatoes: Pre-Simmering. Our recipe’s genius lies in simmering the potato slices in the seasoned cream and whole milk mixture until they are almost tender *before* baking. This step ensures consistent tenderness throughout the dish and allows the potatoes to absorb maximum flavor. Adding fresh thyme, salt, and pepper during this stage infuses the sauce deeply. For an extra layer of aroma, consider adding a bay leaf or a few gratings of fresh nutmeg to the simmering liquid.
- Choose the Right Potato Variety: Always opt for waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. These varieties have less starch and hold their shape beautifully, resulting in a creamy texture without becoming mushy. Russet potatoes, on the other hand, are very starchy and can release too much starch into the sauce, leading to a gluey or mushy result.
- PRO-Tip: Reduced Oven Time: By pre-cooking the potato slices, you significantly shorten the oven time to just about 20 minutes. This is precisely enough time for the cheeses to melt into a glorious, bubbly topping and brown beautifully, giving you that irresistible crust without overcooking the potatoes.
- Mind the Temperature for Creamy Sauce: Don’t bake this potato casserole at too high a temperature. An ideal baking range is 325-350°F (160-175°C). Baking at a higher temperature can cause the delicate cream sauce to curdle, resulting in an unappealing texture. Similarly, for the best richness and stability, it’s not suggested to use low-fat dairy ingredients; instead, simply adjust your portion size if concerned about calories.
- PRO-Tip: Perfect Potato Slice Thickness: Aim for potato slices that are about ⅛-inch thick. This thickness allows them to cook evenly and absorb the sauce without falling apart. Slices that are too thin can become mushy, while those too thick may not cook through properly. Also, prepare your potatoes just before assembling to prevent them from oxidizing and turning gray.
- Achieve Uniform Slices: For consistent cooking and an elegant presentation, use a benriner slicer or a mandoline to create even potato slices. If you don’t have these tools, a sharp chef’s knife and a steady hand will also work well. Consistency is key for uniform tenderness.
- Customizable Cheese Blend: This recipe uses a delightful combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere for a balance of familiar and sophisticated flavors. However, feel free to experiment! You can use just one type of cheese, like all cheddar, or mix in other favorites such as Fontina, Swiss, or even a touch of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- The Importance of Resting: If time allows, cover your baked scalloped potatoes with foil and let them rest for 20-30 minutes before serving. This crucial step allows the sauce to set and thicken slightly, making it easier to serve clean portions, and prevents the risk of scalding your mouth with extremely hot liquid.
- Ham is Optional, But Delicious: While the addition of chopped cooked ham adds a wonderful savory depth and makes it a more substantial meal, these scalloped potatoes are absolutely terrific even without it. They stand perfectly strong as a rich, creamy, and cheesy side dish on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scalloped Potatoes
While the word “scalloped” literally refers to having an edge or border marked with semicircles, in culinary terms, particularly for a dish like scalloped potatoes, it describes a preparation method. It generally refers to a baked dish, typically a casserole, where ingredients (often thinly sliced potatoes) are layered with a creamy sauce and baked until tender. The “scalloped” term might have originally come from the way ingredients were arranged or cut in old recipes.
Despite the fact that potatoes in this dish are cut into circles rather than semicircle shapes, the name “scalloped” potatoes is believed to originate from the Old English word collop, meaning to cut very thin. This perfectly describes the thin slices of potato required for the dish. In French cuisine, the term escalope refers to preparing food by slicing it thinly and often layering it with a creamy sauce in a casserole, further connecting to the technique.
Traditionally, the culinary definition states that scalloped potatoes are typically thicker-sliced potatoes baked in a rich cream sauce, often without cheese. Potatoes Gratin (or au gratin, meaning “with a crust” in French) refers to a dish topped with cheese and/or breadcrumbs, baked until golden. Gratin potatoes are often sliced a bit thinner than traditional scalloped potatoes. However, modern interpretations, like these cheesy scalloped potatoes, frequently blend these definitions. So, while my “scalloped potatoes” might technically lean towards a gratin due to the cheese topping, the delicious result is what truly matters!
Peeled and sliced potatoes turn gray due to oxidation, which occurs when their starches are exposed to air. To minimize this, it’s best to peel and slice your potatoes just before you’re ready to add them to the pot with the cream and milk mixture. You can also keep whole, peeled potatoes submerged in a bowl of cool water until ready to slice, but avoid slicing them too early and leaving the slices in water, as excess water can affect the sauce’s consistency.
A common reason for potatoes remaining firm or hard is the presence of acidic ingredients. When ingredients like sour cream, excessive amounts of onions, or too much garlic are added early in the cooking process, the change in pH can prevent the potato starches from breaking down and softening properly. This recipe carefully balances flavors to avoid this issue, focusing on a creamy, non-acidic sauce base for optimal tenderness.
Yes, it is possible to overcook scalloped potatoes. The goal is to cook them until the potatoes are tender but still hold their shape. If you cook the dish for too long, the potatoes can become overly mushy, losing their desirable texture. Additionally, prolonged high heat can sometimes cause the delicate cream-based sauce to curdle, leading to an undesirable grainy consistency. It’s crucial to follow the recommended cooking times and visual cues to achieve perfection.
Yes, scalloped potatoes can be partially prepared in advance. You can assemble the dish through the simmering step (Step 2), transfer it to the baking dish, and let it cool completely. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator about 30 minutes prior to baking, then add the cheese and bake as directed, potentially adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Leftover scalloped potatoes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm individual portions in the microwave or place the covered baking dish in a 325°F (160°C) oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce seems too thick.
Scalloped Potatoes: A Culinary Journey Through History and Variations
The concept of layering thinly sliced potatoes with a rich sauce and baking them to golden perfection has roots deeply embedded in European culinary traditions, particularly French cuisine. Dishes like “gratin dauphinois” from the Dauphiné region of France are classic examples, typically featuring potatoes, cream, and garlic. Over time, these comforting potato casseroles evolved and made their way across the globe, adapting to local tastes and available ingredients, eventually leading to the beloved scalloped potatoes we enjoy today.
Beyond the Classic: Creative Variations to Explore
While this recipe for cheesy scalloped potatoes is a perfected classic, it also serves as an excellent foundation for culinary creativity. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different additions to tailor the dish to your personal preferences:
- Cheese Blends: Beyond cheddar and Gruyere, consider adding Fontina for extra meltiness, smoked Gouda for a unique smoky note, or even a sharp Parmesan for a salty, pungent kick.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh rosemary or sage can be beautiful additions alongside or instead of thyme, especially if you’re pairing with poultry. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of nutmeg can also enhance the warmth and complexity of the sauce.
- Vegetable Boost: For added nutrients and flavor, finely diced leeks or thinly sliced mushrooms can be sautéed with the onions and garlic. A layer of blanched spinach could also be incorporated.
- Protein Power: Besides ham, cooked shredded chicken, crispy bacon bits, or even browned sausage can transform this side dish into a hearty main course.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Scalloped Potatoes
These rich and creamy scalloped potatoes are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic accompaniment to a wide array of main courses. Their comforting nature complements both simple weeknight meals and elaborate holiday feasts. Here are some ideal pairings:
- Holiday Roasts: A classic match for roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib during festive occasions.
- Poultry Dishes: Excellent alongside roasted chicken, grilled chicken breasts, or even a flavorful duck confit.
- Beef Entrees: Perfectly complements steak, meatloaf, or slow-cooked pot roast.
- Pork Dishes: Beyond ham, try serving with pork chops or a tender pork loin.
- Simple Greens: To balance the richness, pair with a fresh, crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. Steamed green beans or asparagus also provide a lovely contrast.
More Delicious Potato Recipes You’ll Love:
- Easy Potato Casserole
- Twice Baked Potatoes
- Grilled Potato Packets
- Hasselback Potatoes
- Potato Gratin
- Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Side Dish Recipes
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Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
10 minutes
35 minutes
45 minutes
8 servings
A rich, cheesy potato casserole that’s perfect for holidays, company or any family dinner!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup minced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch-thick slices
- ½ cup shredded cheddar
- ½ cup shredded Gruyere
- 1 ½ cups chopped cooked ham, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 C).
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the minced onion until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat immediately to prevent garlic from burning.
- Return pot to heat. Stir in heavy cream, whole milk, fresh thyme sprigs, salt, pepper, and the 1/8-inch thick potato slices. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until potatoes are almost tender. If adding ham, gently mix in the chopped cooked ham.
- Remove the thyme sprigs from the potato mixture. Carefully transfer the mixture into a shallow, 3-quart baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheeses over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cream sauce has thickened, the potatoes are fully tender, and the cheese topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
8
Serving Size:
1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 659Total Fat: 42gSaturated Fat: 26gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 142mgSodium: 954mgCarbohydrates: 54gFiber: 5gSugar: 8gProtein: 19g
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