Are you craving a dish that's both incredibly comforting and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these creamy, dreamy Idahoan scalloped potatoes! This classic recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a holiday gathering, or any occasion when you want to impress your loved ones with a truly delicious, homemade meal. Forget takeout – this easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality results without the fuss. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food sensation!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes (Idaho potatoes are ideal!), thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
Getting Started: Prep Your Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Using a mandoline slicer will ensure even thickness for even cooking. If you don't have one, a sharp knife will work, just be patient and aim for consistent slices. Soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water for 15-20 minutes helps remove excess starch and prevents them from browning. Drain well before proceeding.
Making the Creamy Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth, creating a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the roux is lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Assembling and Baking:
- In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheese (if using) evenly over the top.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions:
These scalloped potatoes are delicious on their own, but they pair perfectly with roasted chicken, ham, or any other roasted meat. They also make a fantastic side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the cheese sauce.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of milk for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add some herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs added to the layers add a delightful aroma and flavor.
- Creamier potatoes: Use heavy cream instead of milk for an even richer and creamier result.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas. It's a testament to the power of simple, homemade cooking, resulting in a truly delicious dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!