Scalloped potatoes are a beloved comfort food, perfect for any holiday gathering or family dinner. This dish features layers of tender potatoes and onions, smothered in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with melted Cheddar cheese. The result is a deliciously indulgent side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, from roast beef to baked ham. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create the best scalloped potatoes, ensuring a dish that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your scalloped potatoes will cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking to the dish and make for easier cleanup.
Layer the Potatoes and Onions: Begin by layering half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Follow with a layer of thinly sliced onions. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and onions, creating a layered effect.
Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Be careful not to let it boil. Season the cream with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the Cream Over the Potatoes: Carefully pour the hot cream mixture over the layered potatoes and onions. The cream will seep through the layers, ensuring that every bite is rich and flavorful.
Dot with Butter: Cut the butter into small pieces and dot it over the top of the potatoes. This will add richness and help create a golden-brown crust.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the dish. The cheese will melt and form a delicious, bubbly crust as the potatoes bake.
Bake the Potatoes: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the center of the dish; the potatoes should be soft and easily pierced.
Cool and Serve: Once the scalloped potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to serve.