Homemade Scalloped Potatoes
There’s something truly comforting about a warm, creamy dish of homemade scalloped potatoes. Whether it’s a special occasion like Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving, or simply a cozy Sunday dinner with family, this classic recipe is a perfect addition to your table. Imagine thinly sliced potatoes and onions nestled in a rich, homemade cream sauce, baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s the definition of potato perfection!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Scalloped potatoes are the epitome of comfort food. Their creamy texture and savory flavor make them a favorite side dish for many. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the ease of preparation, means you can enjoy a delicious homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the aroma that fills your home as they bake is simply irresistible.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven
- 9″x13″ baking dish
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 3 pounds white potatoes, sliced about ⅛” thick
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, a little at a time, allowing the mixture to thicken. Continue whisking until smooth.
- Once all the liquid has been added, increase the heat to medium and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Stir in the salt and pepper, and let it boil for 1 minute.
Assembly
- Grease a 9″x13″ baking dish. Arrange ⅓ of the sliced potatoes in the bottom and season with salt and pepper. Pour ⅓ of the cream sauce over the potatoes.
- Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of cream sauce. Cover and bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and continue baking for an additional 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender. Broil for 3-4 minutes to achieve a golden top.
- Let the dish rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your potato slices are as uniform as possible for even cooking.
- Whisk the sauce continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Allow the dish to rest after baking; this helps the sauce set and makes serving easier.
Additional Tips and Variations
For extra flavor, consider adding shredded cheese to the sauce or between the layers. You can also sprinkle chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for an aromatic touch.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Approximate nutritional values per serving: 250 calories, 10g fat, 30g carbohydrates, 5g protein.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare scalloped potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
Can I use a different type of potato?
While white potatoes are traditional, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also work well in this recipe.
Conclusion
These homemade scalloped potatoes are sure to become a staple in your collection of go-to recipes. Their creamy, savory goodness is perfect for any gathering or just a simple family dinner. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out. We’d love to hear your feedback and any creative variations you come up with!