Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

#### **Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the Oven**
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s at the right temperature to bake the potatoes to perfection.

2. **Prepare the Potatoes**
Peel your potatoes and slice them into thin, even rounds (about ⅛-inch thick). It’s important to keep the slices uniform so they cook evenly. Place the sliced potatoes into a bowl of cold water as you work to prevent browning.

3. **Make the Creamy Sauce**
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic, stirring constantly to make a roux (a paste used to thicken sauces). Cook the flour for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.

4. **Add the Milk and Cream**
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir until the sauce begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes. Add salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using) to season the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

5. **Stir in the Cheese**
Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese (or your choice of cheese). Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

6. **Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes**
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Begin layering the sliced potatoes in the dish, slightly overlapping each layer. Pour some of the creamy sauce over the potatoes, making sure to coat each layer evenly. Repeat this process until all the potatoes and sauce are used up.

7. **Top with Cheese**
After layering the potatoes and sauce, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese on top for a cheesy, golden crust.

8. **Bake the Scalloped Potatoes**
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can test the tenderness by inserting a fork into the potatoes—if it slides in easily, they’re ready.

9. **Let It Rest**
Once your scalloped potatoes are baked to perfection, let them sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve.

10. **Garnish and Serve**
For an added touch, sprinkle the top with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. The freshness of the herbs will complement the richness of the dish and give it a beautiful presentation.

### **Tips for Perfect Creamy Scalloped Potatoes**

– **Use Starchy Potatoes:** Russet potatoes are the best choice for scalloped potatoes due to their starchy texture, which helps create a creamy sauce. Waxy potatoes like red potatoes are not ideal, as they won’t break down in the sauce the same way.

– **Make Ahead Option:** Scalloped potatoes can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If you’re prepping in advance, make sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to bake for a little longer if the dish is chilled.

– **Cheese Variety:** While cheddar is the classic cheese for scalloped potatoes, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan for a more complex flavor. A blend of cheeses will add depth and richness to the dish.

– **Add-Ins:** You can customize your scalloped potatoes by adding sautéed onions, cooked bacon bits, or herbs like rosemary for extra flavor. Feel free to get creative with your toppings!

– **Don’t Skip the Resting Time:** Letting the scalloped potatoes rest after baking is crucial. This allows the sauce to set, ensuring that every bite is rich and creamy, rather than too runny.

### **Why Scalloped Potatoes Are the Perfect Side Dish**

Scalloped potatoes are versatile and complement nearly any main dish. They pair beautifully with roast beef, baked ham, turkey, or grilled chicken. Whether it’s for a special holiday meal or a weeknight dinner, scalloped potatoes are sure to impress your family and guests.

The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make them the ultimate comfort food. Plus, they can be easily adapted to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences.

### **Conclusion:**

There’s no doubt about it—creamy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. With their velvety texture, rich flavors, and cheesy topping, they’re sure to be the star of any meal. This recipe is simple to follow, and the results are nothing short of amazing. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a holiday gathering, creamy scalloped potatoes will never disappoint.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the most indulgent and satisfying side dishes you’ll ever make!