Are you craving a dish that's both incredibly comforting and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this creamy, dreamy Campbell's Scalloped Potato recipe! This classic side dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a homemade touch without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a true testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and satisfying meal. This recipe uses Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup for a shortcut to incredible flavor, making it one of the best recipes for even the busiest cooks.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can Campbell's Cream of Mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes. Aim for even slices to ensure even cooking. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve this, but a sharp knife works just as well with a bit more patience.
Step 2: Layer the Potatoes
In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Overlapping is fine; you want to cover the bottom evenly.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Campbell's Cream of Mushroom soup, milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the layered potatoes. Top with the remaining potato slices. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is lightly golden brown. You can check for doneness by easily piercing a potato slice with a fork.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the scalloped potatoes rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the potatoes to set slightly and makes them easier to serve.
Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes:
- Thinly sliced potatoes: The thinner the slices, the quicker and more evenly they will cook.
- Don't overcrowd the dish: Ensure your baking dish isn't too small; otherwise, the potatoes might not cook properly.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. You can also experiment with other herbs and spices, such as garlic powder or onion powder.
- Add some crunch: For extra texture, sprinkle some bread crumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking.
Variations:
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Increase the cheese to 1 cup or add a different variety like Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
- Bacon Scalloped Potatoes: Add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the creamy sauce for a smoky, savory twist.
- Ham Scalloped Potatoes: Dice some cooked ham and layer it with the potatoes for a hearty, flavorful side.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This easy recipe provides a delicious and satisfying side dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this comforting classic made effortlessly with the help of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup! It's a quick dinner idea that's sure to become a family favorite. From healthy meals to delicious dishes, this recipe offers the best of both worlds.