**Scalloped Potatoes**

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

• Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, about 1/8-inch thick. It’s essential to keep the slices uniform for even cooking.

1. Make the Cream Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes). Stir in the flour, and cook for another minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
• Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes). Add 1 cup of cheddar cheese, the Parmesan cheese, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

1. Assemble the Dish:

• Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Add the remaining potatoes on top, followed by the rest of the sauce.

1. Top with Cheese:

• Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the dish.

1. Bake the Potatoes:

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the sauce set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are perfect for this recipe because of their high starch content, which helps thicken the sauce. Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a slightly creamier texture.
• Uniform Slices: Thin, even slices ensure that the potatoes cook at the same rate. A mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform thickness.
• Add Extra Flavor: For an extra-special touch, add cooked bacon pieces, ham, or sautéed mushrooms between the layers.
• Storage and Reheating: Leftover scalloped potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Variations to Try

• Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: For a more indulgent dish, add a mix of cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella to the cream sauce.
• Scalloped Potatoes with Ham: Turn it into a main dish by layering in pieces of cooked ham for a hearty casserole.
• Garlic and Herb Scalloped Potatoes: Infuse the cream sauce with fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives for a burst of herbal flavor.

Conclusion

Scalloped potatoes are a classic dish that brings both comfort and elegance to any table. The creamy, cheesy layers of tender potatoes are perfect for pairing with roasted meats, chicken, or even as a standalone dish. This recipe’s simple preparation and rich flavors make it an ideal side for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. Whether you stick with the traditional recipe or add your personal touch, scalloped potatoes are sure to be a hit every time!