Yummy Jen's Scalloped Potatoes

Imagine a side dish that transforms ordinary potatoes into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. These Yummy Jen's Scalloped Potatoes are more than just a simple potato dish – they're a culinary hug that speaks directly to your comfort food cravings.

Layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a rich, velvety cheese sauce create a dish that's both indulgent and irresistible. Moreover, it's the perfect accompaniment to any main course or a star attraction all on its own.

Whether you're hosting a family dinner or looking for the ultimate comfort food, these scalloped potatoes promise to become an instant classic in your recipe collection.

Yummy Jen's Scalloped Potatoes: A Cheesy Potato Perfection

This isn't just another potato side dish – it's a creamy culinary masterpiece that elevates the humble potato to new heights of deliciousness. Each forkful delivers a perfect balance of tender potatoes, rich cheese sauce, and perfectly balanced seasonings.

Get ready to discover why Jen's scalloped potatoes are legendary in the world of comfort food.

Serving Suggestions:

Your Yummy Jen's Scalloped Potatoes shine when served with:

• Roasted meats
• Green vegetable sides
• Holiday ham
• Grilled chicken
• Fresh garden salad

Pro Tips for the Perfect Scalloped Potatoes:

Potato Precision: Choose starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture.

Sauce Secrets: Whisk constantly when making the roux to prevent lumps in your cheese sauce.

Layering Technique: Overlap potato slices slightly for even cooking and a beautiful presentation.

Cheese Customization: Mix different cheese varieties for a more complex flavor profile.

Make-Ahead Magic: Can be prepared in advance and reheated for easy entertaining.

Yummy Jen's Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 8-10
• Equipment: 9x13-inch baking dish, medium saucepan, mandoline or sharp knife

This potato-based side dish represents the pinnacle of comfort food, combining creamy texture with rich, cheesy flavors.

Ingredients:

For the Potato Base:

• 3 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes
• Nonstick spray
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• 1 and ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Carefully prepare your baking dish by spraying it thoroughly with nonstick spray, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
2. Begin by peeling the potatoes. Using a mandoline or a very sharp knife, slice the potatoes into thin, uniform rounds. Aim for slices about ⅛ inch thick to ensure even cooking and a perfect texture.
3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. This will be the base for your roux. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes. The mixture should turn slightly golden and become fragrant.
4. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce begins to thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 1 cup of the cheddar cheese. Whisk until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Begin layering your potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the first half of the potato slices, slightly overlapping them to create an even layer. Pour half of the cheese sauce over these potatoes, ensuring even coverage.
7. Create a second layer with the remaining potato slices. Pour the rest of the cheese sauce over the top, making sure all potatoes are well-coated.
8. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese over the top of the dish. This will create a golden, crispy cheese crust.
9. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is beautifully golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Ready to Enjoy!

Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 10 minutes. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.

Storage Solutions:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain the crispy top
• Can be frozen for up to 1 month
• For best results, add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess

Whether you're preparing a Sunday family dinner or looking for the ultimate comfort food side dish, Yummy Jen's Scalloped Potatoes are guaranteed to impress and satisfy.