Are you craving the comforting warmth of classic scalloped potatoes but need a gluten-free option? Look no further! This recipe delivers all the creamy, cheesy goodness you adore, without any of the gluten. It's a perfect side dish for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, proving that healthy meals can also be incredibly delicious. This easy recipe is a testament to the fact that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this surprisingly simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup gluten-free milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, unsalted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the Potatoes: Evenly slice your potatoes. Aim for thin slices for even cooking and tenderness. Soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water for at least 15 minutes helps to remove excess starch and prevents them from becoming gummy.
Create the Creamy Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the gluten-free milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Assemble and Bake: Layer half of the potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
Rest and Serve: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows them to set slightly and makes them easier to serve.
Tips for Success:
- Thinly Sliced Potatoes: Using a mandoline slicer ensures consistent thickness for even cooking.
- Don't Overcrowd the Dish: Leave a little space between the potato layers to allow for even browning.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a fork into the center of the potatoes to ensure they are tender.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend.
Variations:
- Add Herbs: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of milk and cream for a completely dairy-free option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
This gluten-free scalloped potato recipe is a delicious and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It's a quick dinner idea that's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!