Name: Deliciously Creamy Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon butter; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Introduction

Cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes are a warm, comforting dish that transcends mere side status, elevating any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. This dish features tender layers of potatoes enveloped in a luscious, creamy garlic cheese sauce, making it a favorite at family gatherings and holiday feasts alike.

The magic of scalloped potatoes lies not only in their flavor but also in the wonderful texture that develops from carefully layered ingredients. Each creamy slice provides an indulgent mouthfeel that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or serves as a standout vegetarian main. Get ready to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes
These starchy potatoes hold their shape when cooked and develop a fluffy texture inside, making them ideal for scalloped dishes.
2 cups heavy cream
Heavy cream creates the rich and velvety sauce that coats the potatoes, enhancing their flavor and ensuring they cook to tender perfection.
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Cheddar adds a sharp, tangy flavor and a gooey texture that melts beautifully over the potatoes, creating a satisfying layer of cheese.
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder infuses the dish with a robust garlic flavor, complementing the creaminess of the sauce without adding chunks of fresh garlic.
1 teaspoon salt
Salt enhances all of the flavors in the dish, balancing the creaminess with necessary seasoning to bring out the best in each ingredient.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Black pepper adds a subtle kick, which contrasts nicely with the creamy and cheesy layers, elevating the overall taste experience.
1 tablespoon butter
Butter contributes richness to the sauce and helps in creating a beautifully baked, golden crust on top of the potatoes.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds a nutty flavor that deepens the cheese element in the dish, creating a lovely crust when baked.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Preheating the oven is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden brown crust on top of your scalloped potatoes. Starting with a hot oven ensures that the potatoes cook evenly and thoroughly, while the cheese melts and forms a delightful layer.

Step 2: Wash and peel the potatoes, then slice them thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife.

Slicing the potatoes uniformly ensures even cooking, which helps them layer nicely. Thin slices absorb the creamy mixture better, leading to a creamier texture throughout the dish.

Step 3: In a large bowl, mix together the heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Combining these ingredients in a bowl allows for an even distribution of flavors. The garlic powder will dissolve into the cream, creating a cohesive sauce that will coat the potatoes beautifully.

Step 4: Add half of the sliced potatoes to a greased baking dish, followed by half of the cream mixture and half of the cheddar cheese.

Layering the potatoes, cream, and cheese this way allows the flavors to meld together, ensuring that every bite is rich and cheesy. Initial layers will also help the potatoes cook evenly throughout.

Step 5: Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and top with remaining cheese.

Building the dish in layers ensures even distribution of all elements, infusing flavor deeply within while also forming a deliciously crusty topping with the cheese.

Step 6: Dot the top with butter and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over.

Adding butter to the top helps develop a crispy, golden layer while enriching the flavor. Parmesan offers that distinctive, nutty flavor and a crusty topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes below.

Step 7: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Covering the dish allows the potatoes to steam, cooking them through without drying them out. This initial baking time ensures that the potatoes are tender before uncovering and browning.

Step 8: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.

Uncovering the dish allows moisture to escape, creating a beautifully browned crust. The final minutes of baking heighten the flavors as it finishes cooking and browning on top.

Step 9: Let the dish sit for about 10 minutes before serving.

Allowing the scalloped potatoes to rest helps the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serving a cleaner presentation. This short resting period intensifies the flavors.

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes step photo

Layering for Creamy Perfection

The art of layering scalloped potatoes plays a critical role in the texture and flavor of the final dish. By alternating layers of potatoes, cream sauce, and cheese, each slice guarantees a delightful combination of flavors. This method helps the cream penetrate the potatoes effectively, which transforms them into a soft, creamy delight that pairs well with the melted cheese.

Choosing the Right Cheese

The choice of cheese can significantly affect the outcome of your scalloped potatoes. While sharp cheddar is a classic option, experimenting with combinations like Gruyère or Monterey Jack can elevate the flavor. Each type offers a unique taste profile and texture, so blending cheeses can create depth and enhance the overall creaminess while still maintaining that gooey quality.

Serving Suggestions for Any Occasion

Cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes are versatile enough for any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Pair them with roasted meats like chicken or pork for a comforting main course, or serve them as a vegetarian side alongside grilled vegetables. They also work well with fresh herbs or a side salad, making them an adaptable addition to any table.

FAQs

What if my scalloped potatoes come out too watery?

If your scalloped potatoes are watery, it may be due to overly starchy potatoes or excess liquid. Ensure you use the right type of potatoes and let the dish sit for longer before serving to allow excess moisture to evaporate.

Can I make cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes with a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor twist. Just ensure you maintain a good ratio of cream to cheese for proper consistency.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning on top?

To prevent burning, you can cover the dish with foil during the initial baking phase. Remove it towards the end to allow for browning while protecting the cheese.

What should I do if my potato slices aren’t cooking through?

If your potatoes are still firm after baking, they may not have been sliced thin enough. For next time, aim for slices that are 1/8 inch thick to ensure even cooking.

Why do my scalloped potatoes seem bland?

Bland scalloped potatoes typically indicate insufficient seasoning. Make sure to taste the cream mixture before layering, and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

Can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredient amounts while maintaining the layering technique and baking dish size to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Creating cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes is both a labor of love and a ticket to culinary delight. With each bite, enjoy the harmonious blend of creamy, cheesy layers, infused with rich garlic flavor.

This dish not only serves as a memorable side but can also stand alone as a main course. Gather your ingredients, try out this delectable recipe, and revel in the joy of sharing a truly comforting and flavorful dish with loved ones.

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