**Scalloped Potatoes**

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Potatoes

• Slice the Potatoes: Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the russet potatoes into thin, even rounds. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch and then pat them dry with a towel.

3. Make the Cream Sauce

• Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Heat until just warmed, but do not boil.
• Thicken the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk the flour with a little bit of the warm cream mixture to create a slurry. Gradually add the slurry back into the saucepan, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat.

4. Layer the Potatoes

• Start Layering: In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of the cream sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the sliced potatoes over the sauce, followed by half of the sliced onions and half of the cheese.
• Repeat Layers: Pour half of the remaining cream sauce over the first layer. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese. Finish with the remaining cream sauce on top.

5. Bake the Dish

• Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
• Uncover and Brown: Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Let it Rest: Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce to set slightly.
• Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for a touch of color and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes due to their high starch content, which helps create a creamy texture.
• Uniform Slicing: Ensuring even thickness when slicing the potatoes is key for even cooking. A mandoline slicer can help achieve this.
• Cheese Variations: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a combination for added flavor.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: For a twist, add thinly sliced carrots, broccoli, or spinach to the layers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or dill for an aromatic touch.
• Bacon or Ham: Add cooked bacon bits or diced ham between the layers for a smoky flavor.

Why You’ll Love Scalloped Potatoes

• Creamy and Indulgent: The combination of rich cream and melted cheese creates a luxurious dish that is hard to resist.
• Perfect Side Dish: Scalloped potatoes complement a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to grilled fish.
• Easily Scalable: This recipe can easily be adjusted to serve a larger crowd, making it perfect for gatherings or holidays.

Health Benefits

• Source of Carbohydrates: Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Potatoes contain essential nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, especially when the skin is left on.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Proteins: Serve scalloped potatoes alongside roast chicken, beef, or pork for a complete meal.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the scalloped potatoes.
• Bread: Pair with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread to round out the meal.

Conclusion

Scalloped potatoes are a creamy, comforting dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. With their tender layers of potatoes, rich sauce, and melted cheese, they are the perfect side for any occasion. Follow this easy recipe to create a dish that is not only delicious but also a joy to share with family and friends. Enjoy the warm, indulgent flavors of scalloped potatoes and make it a staple in your home cooking repertoire!