Introduction to Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes are a beloved comfort food across the globe. This versatile dish can be elevated with a variety of ingredients, from savory herbs to creamy sauces. This guide will walk you through the process of creating the perfect scalloped potatoes, including common ingredients and expert tips to suit your taste preferences.

Adding Ingredients to Scallop Potatoes

Cheese: Cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan provide a creamy and cheesy texture, enhancing the overall flavor. Onions: Sautéed onions add sweetness and depth, while shallots can also be used for a milder flavor. Garlic: Both fresh and roasted garlic can bring a robust aroma and flavor, pairing well with other ingredients. Herbs: Fresh or dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley can add aromatic notes. Cream or Milk: Heavy cream or whole milk create a rich and creamy sauce, perfect for a decadent meal. Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth can substitute or complement the cream for a lighter version. Mustard: A teaspoon of Dijon mustard can add tanginess, while a pinch of nutmeg can complement the creamy flavor and add warmth.

Feel free to mix and match these ingredients based on your preferences and dietary needs.

Basic Recipe for Scalloped Potatoes

Here is a simple yet delicious recipe for creamy scalloped potatoes. While this recipe serves a small family, you can easily scale it up for larger portions.

Ingredients

2 potatoes (6 medium or 8 smaller ones) 3 Tbsp butter 4 Tbsp flour 1 tsp salt A dash of pepper 2 cups milk 3-4 Tbsp chopped onions 1 Tbsp butter

Expanded Recipe for Larger Servings

6 Tbsp butter 8 Tbsp flour 1 tsp salt A dash of pepper 3-3/8 cups milk 8-9 medium potatoes 3-4 Tbsp diced onions 1 Tbsp butter

Preparation

Step 1: Peel and Slice the Potatoes
Peel and slice the potatoes. If you have a kitchen gadget for slicing, use it for uniform thickness. Par-boil the potatoes to ensure even cooking. This step can be skipped if you prefer.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Melt 3 Tbsp butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add flour, salt, and pepper, whisking until smooth. Remove from heat and gradually add milk, stirring to a smooth milky mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Potatoes
Layer half the potatoes in a greased casserole dish, followed by diced onions and half the milk sauce. Place the remaining potatoes on top and cover with the rest of the milk sauce. Top with the remaining butter cut into squares.

Step 4: Bake
Bake covered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Optional: Reheating
You can reheat these potatoes in a microwave or in a saucepan with more milk if needed.