Get ready to transform your dinner table with the most irresistible, creamy, and cheesy scalloped potatoes you've ever tasted! This Pioneer Woman recipe is not just a side dish – it's a culinary experience that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. Imagine layers of perfectly sliced potatoes, swimming in a rich, velvety cream sauce and blanketed with melted cheese that creates a golden, crispy top that's absolutely impossible to resist.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 6 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Thoroughly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Peel the potatoes and use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to cut them into thin, uniform slices approximately 1/8 inch thick. Consistency is key for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, milk, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture until well blended and seasonings are fully incorporated.
- Begin layering the potato slices in the prepared baking dish. Create overlapping layers, slightly covering each previous layer of potato slices.
- Between each layer of potatoes, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese and dot with small pieces of butter to enhance flavor and richness.
- Continue layering potatoes, cheese, and butter until all ingredients are used, ensuring the top layer is covered with cheese.
- Pour the cream and milk mixture evenly over the layered potatoes, allowing the liquid to seep between the potato slices.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, creating a tight seal to trap moisture and ensure even cooking.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from oven and let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Slice Consistently: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices to ensure even cooking and a professional-looking dish.
- Don't Rush the Layering: Take your time when creating potato layers, making sure each slice slightly overlaps for maximum creaminess.
- Quality Matters: Use fresh, high-fat heavy cream and good-quality cheese for the most luxurious flavor.
- Let It Rest: Always allow the dish to rest 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set and makes serving much easier.
- Prevent Burning: Cover with foil for the first 45 minutes to keep moisture in and prevent the top from browning too quickly.
- Optional Upgrades: Consider adding minced garlic, thyme, or crispy bacon bits between layers for extra flavor complexity.
- Storage Tip: These scalloped potatoes reheat beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for best results.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 399kcal
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 31g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 93mg
