Scandal Boggs ┃ Fashion, Beauty & Home

Embrace the warmth and indulgence of a classic side dish with these Creamy Scalloped Potatoes—a comforting addition to your Easter feast. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a velvety cream sauce and baked to golden perfection create a dish that is both rich and satisfying. Whether served alongside ham, lamb, or as a standalone indulgence, these creamy scalloped potatoes are sure to become a beloved tradition at your Easter table.

For our Easter 2024 Master List of Recipes, click here

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme leaves)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded Gruyere or cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and thinly slice them using a mandoline or a sharp knife. It’s essential to have uniform slices for even cooking.
3. Make the Cream Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the roux doesn’t brown.
4. Gradually Add Milk and Cream: Gradually pour in the warmed milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens to a smooth consistency.
5. Season and Add Thyme: Season the cream sauce with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. If using fresh thyme, add it at this stage. Stir to combine the flavors.
6. Layer Potatoes and Sauce: Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour a portion of the cream sauce over the potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated. Repeat the process, layering potatoes and sauce until you run out of ingredients. Reserve some sauce for the top layer.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Gruyere or cheddar cheese over the top layer of potatoes. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a golden and gooey topping.
8. Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes. Uncover during the last 15 minutes to allow the top to brown and the edges to crisp.
9. Check for Doneness: Insert a knife into the center of the scalloped potatoes to check for doneness. The potatoes should be tender, and the dish should be bubbling and golden brown.
10. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy goodness.

Variations and Tips:

• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses such as Gouda, Fontina, or Swiss for varied flavor profiles.
• Crispy Bacon Topping: Add a crispy element by sprinkling crumbled bacon over the cheese before baking.
• Layer with Onions: Sautéed onions between the layers add a sweet and savory dimension to the dish.
• Herb Infusion: Infuse the cream sauce with additional herbs like rosemary, sage, or chives for a fragrant twist.
• Individual Servings: For an elegant presentation, prepare individual servings in ramekins for each guest.

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes offer a taste of nostalgia and comfort, making them an ideal companion to the Easter festivities. The layers of tender potatoes enveloped in a luxuriously creamy sauce create a side dish that is both indulgent and timeless. Whether shared with family or friends, these scalloped potatoes bring a sense of warmth and joy to the table, making every bite a celebration of tradition and culinary delight. Serve up this classic dish at your Easter gathering and let the creamy, cheesy goodness become a highlight of your festive feast.