Description
Creamy, indulgent Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes promise a comforting journey through layers of tender potatoes and rich, melted cheese. Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, this classic side dish brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table, inviting you to savor each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dairy and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Aromatics:
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F, preparing a spacious rectangular baking vessel with a light butter coating.
- Craft a fragrant base by gently sautéing diced onions and minced garlic in a blend of olive oil and butter over medium heat until translucent and aromatic, approximately 5 minutes.
- Transform the sauté into a luxurious sauce by introducing heavy cream, seasoning with salt and pepper, and allowing the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes while stirring intermittently.
- Enrich the sauce by incorporating shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan, stirring until the cheese melts completely and creates a silky, uniform consistency.
- Construct the first potato layer in the prepared dish, carefully arranging potato slices to create an even foundation.
- Generously drench the initial potato layer with half of the creamy cheese sauce, ensuring thorough and uniform coverage.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining potato slices and sauce, creating a decadent multi-dimensional casserole.
- Shield the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, allowing potatoes to tenderize and flavors to meld.
- Uncover the dish and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes until the surface transforms into a golden, bubbling crust with crisp edges.
- Allow the casserole to rest briefly, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, and serve while warm and inviting.
Notes
- Use starchy, waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for the creamiest texture and best holding shape during baking.
- Slice potatoes uniformly thin (about 1/8 inch) to ensure even cooking and consistent tenderness throughout the dish.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, reducing total fat content while maintaining rich flavor.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyère or fontina to add depth and complexity to the classic cheddar profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 21 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg