Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Mmm, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a dish of Creamy Scalloped Potatoes, bubbling hot and fresh out of the oven. This classic recipe is a must-have for any gathering, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special holiday celebration. Layers of tender potatoes, rich cream, and melty cheese create a decadent side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into how easy it is to make this delicious crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons of butter
– 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
– 2 cups of whole milk
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 2 cups of shredded Gruyere cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and onion mixture, stirring constantly to make a smooth paste, known as a roux. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
4. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season the creamy sauce with dried thyme, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
6. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potatoes, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
7. Sprinkle half of the shredded Gruyere cheese over the sauce, creating a nice layer of cheesy goodness.
8. Repeat with the remaining sliced potatoes, the rest of the creamy sauce, and the remaining cheese on top.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Let the Creamy Scalloped Potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy these luscious Creamy Scalloped Potatoes as a delightful accompaniment to your main course. Their creamy texture and cheesy crust will make them a standout dish on your table. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding crispy bacon bits, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of paprika for a touch of extra flavor. Share this recipe with your loved ones and create lasting memories around the dining table.
