Scalloped Potatoes Recipe:

Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 1⁄2 cups milk
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1⁄2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or Gruyere) for topping
• Salt to taste
• Optional: 1/2 cup sliced green onions, pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Potatoes:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
• Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes into rounds. Pat the slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

2. Making the Cheese Sauce:

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Once melted, add the flour and stir constantly to form a smooth paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
• Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove from heat and stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste and add a pinch of cayenne pepper if desired.

3. Assembling the Dish:

• Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly to cover. Repeat layers until all potatoes and sauce are used, finishing with a layer of cheese sauce on top.

4. Baking the Scalloped Potatoes:

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
• Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the top of the potatoes.
• Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

5. Serving and Enjoying:

• Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
• Garnish with sliced green onions, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve as a side dish alongside your favorite main course.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• For a creamier texture, use half heavy cream or half-and-half in the cheese sauce.
• Infuse the milk with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
• Omit green onions and cayenne pepper for a vegetarian version.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

• Replace all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour.
• Use keto-friendly cheeses like mozzarella or cream cheese.

Low-Carb Version:

• Decrease the amount of potatoes or substitute with cauliflower slices.
• Use unsweetened almond or coconut milk in the sauce.

Additional Tips and Serving Suggestions:

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheat before serving.
• Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate before baking for convenience.
• Customize with ingredients like bacon, mushrooms, or ham for added flavor.

Source: plusdeclics.com