Are you craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious side dish that’s surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these scalloped potatoes with Gruyere cheese! This recipe elevates the classic dish with the nutty, complex flavor of Gruyere, creating a side that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Forget those bland, watery scalloped potatoes – this recipe guarantees a creamy, dreamy texture and unforgettable taste. It's one of those healthy meals that feels incredibly indulgent. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup Gruyere cheese, grated (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Getting Started: Prep the Potatoes
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This ensures even browning and prevents sticking.
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Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and thinly slice them using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife for consistent thickness. This is crucial for even cooking. Soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water for 15 minutes helps remove excess starch and prevents them from becoming gummy. Drain well before proceeding.
Building the Delicious Layers
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In a large bowl, gently combine the minced garlic, melted butter, heavy cream, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Seasoning the cream mixture before adding the potatoes infuses the entire dish with flavor.
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Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated.
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Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cream mixture, ending with a layer of potatoes. Sprinkle generously with the grated Gruyere cheese. Adding extra cheese on top creates a beautiful browned crust.
Baking to Perfection
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the center; it should slide in easily. If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes:
- Thinly sliced potatoes: Using a mandoline slicer ensures even cooking and prevents some parts from becoming mushy while others remain hard.
- Don't overcrowd the dish: Ensure there's enough space between the potato slices for even baking.
- Use high-quality cheese: The Gruyere cheese adds a unique, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- Adjust baking time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your potatoes and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Add different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Fontina, Comté, or even a blend of cheddar and Gruyere.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add herbs: Fresh rosemary or sage would complement the Gruyere beautifully.
- Use different potatoes: Russet potatoes can also be used, but they might require a slightly longer cooking time.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This scalloped potato recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and easy recipes that deliver on flavor and texture. It’s perfect as a side dish with roasted chicken, beef, or even fish. Enjoy this simple, yet elegant, addition to your next meal!