Scalloped potatoes au gratin is a quintessential comfort food, ideal for family gatherings or a cozy, intimate dinner. This delightful dish features thinly sliced potatoes, intricately layered, and smothered in a velvety creamy sauce. It is then baked to perfection until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender and succulent. Thus, with its rich flavor and satisfying texture, scalloped potatoes are the ultimate side dish. Scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with any kind of meat, making them a staple for weeknight dinners as well as special occasions.
Why Make Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin?
Scalloped potatoes au gratin is more than just a side dish; it transforms an ordinary meal into a memorable dining experience. Imagine layers of tender, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes embraced by a luxurious, creamy sauce, baked to a bubbly perfection with a beautifully golden top. This dish basically epitomizes comfort food, offering warmth and indulgence wrapped in each delicious bite. Beyond being a mere accompaniment, scalloped potatoes play a vital role in meals centered around togetherness. Whether gracing the table at a holiday feast, being shared at a potluck dinner, or enjoyed during a quiet family gathering, they bring an inviting warmth and satisfaction that resonates with everyone. It’s the dish that beckons to diners. It offers a taste of something rich and familiar, evoking memories of family.
One of the most appealing aspects of scalloped potatoes is their versatility. While the classic version typically features just potatoes, cream, and cheese, there are many creative variations. For example, a sprinkle of red onions can introduce a layer of sweetness. Sharp cheddar enhances the cheesy profile, adding bold flavors that elevate the dish. In addition to their delightful taste, scalloped potatoes au gratin possess an irresistible visual appeal. The crispy, browned top layer contrasts beautifully with the soft, tender slices hidden beneath.
What truly sets scalloped potatoes apart, however, is the nostalgia woven into each serving. For many, this dish is intrinsically linked to cherished holiday dinners, laughter-filled tables, and the warmth of shared moments with loved ones. It transcends mere sustenance—it’s an experience steeped in emotion and tradition and the joy of gathering around the table. This is the essence that makes scalloped potatoes au gratin truly special.
Preparation, Servings, and Storage
One of the most convenient aspects of this recipe is that it is prepared and baked in a single deep dish skillet. This eliminates the hassle of multiple dishes and streamlines clean-up. One of my favorite tools for preparing this dish is the mandoline slicer. I rarely have the opportunity to use it. It makes slicing the potatoes a breeze, ensuring each slice is uniformly thin and perfectly sized. Plus, it adds a touch of fun to the preparation process!
These comforting scalloped potatoes will be ready to serve in about one hour, and a generous skillet can comfortably serve up to eight people, making it an ideal side for large family gatherings. And if there are any leftovers, don’t worry—they can be conveniently transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, ensuring that the creamy, cheesy goodness can be enjoyed even after the meal is over.
Interested in other Delicious Potato Recipes? Try:
Scalloped Potatoes
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Ingredients
- 3 Russet potatoes, large
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1/2 Red onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves Garlic, crushed
- 1 cup Chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp Sea salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1½ cups Heavy cream
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Instructions
- Wash and peel the potatoes. Slice the potatoes and rinse in cold water.
- Using a deep cast iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the onions and garlic. Sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add the chicken broth, salt, pepper, and cream to the pot and stir.
- Add the potato slices to the cream mixture, stir, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 425℉.
- Stir 1 cup of cheese to the potato mixture and top the potatoes with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and browning.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
