Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: A Cozy Easter Brunch Delight

Name: Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with whole milk or half and half); ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

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Creamy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food for your Easter brunch. With their rich flavors and creamy texture, these potatoes are both indulgent and satisfying, making them perfect for any gathering. As you layer thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes with a luscious garlic cream sauce, your kitchen will fill with mouthwatering aromas, creating an inviting atmosphere. Serve these golden-brown, tender beauties alongside your favorite Easter dishes for a truly memorable meal.

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes ready for Easter brunch.

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: A Perfect Easter Brunch Dish

When planning your Easter brunch, creamy scalloped potatoes should be at the top of your menu. This dish not only complements your main course but also adds a touch of elegance to your table. Its creamy, cheesy flavor pairs beautifully with lamb, ham, or even a light salad, making it versatile enough for any occasion.

Delicious Creamy Scalloped Potatoes ready for Easter brunch

Understanding Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped Potatoes vs Potatoes Au Gratin

Many people often confuse scalloped potatoes with potatoes au gratin. While both dishes involve baked potatoes in a creamy sauce, the key difference lies in the cheese. Scalloped potatoes are typically made without cheese, allowing the creamy sauce and garlic to shine. In contrast, potatoes au gratin are layered with cheese, adding a different flavor and texture profile. Both are delicious, but knowing the difference can help you choose the right dish for your meal.

Key Ingredients for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

To make mouthwatering creamy scalloped potatoes, you’ll need:

5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with whole milk or half and half)
½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Preparing the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lightly greasing a medium ceramic baking dish. Using a mandolin or a sharp knife, thinly slice the Yukon gold potatoes to about 1/16th of an inch. This ensures even cooking and a delightful texture in your final dish.

Making the Creamy Sauce

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Next, whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually stir in the heavy cream, cooking the mixture until it thickens, about 5 minutes. Mix in the Parmesan, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth and velvety.

Combining and Baking

Now, combine the sliced potatoes with the creamy sauce in a large bowl, gently tossing to coat. Arrange the potato slices upright in the greased baking dish, pouring any remaining sauce over them. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle additional Parmesan on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. Let the dish cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to mix things up, consider using Gruyere or Swiss cheese instead of Parmesan for a different flavor. For a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with whole milk or half and half. If you’re looking to skip the cheese entirely, simply omit it, and you’ll still enjoy a creamy and delicious dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Individual servings can be reheated in the microwave, or if you prefer, the entire dish can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. Just make sure it reaches room temperature before placing it in the oven for the best results. You can even prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.

Common Questions About Scalloped Potatoes

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you with your creamy scalloped potatoes:

How to know when scalloped potatoes are done?

Scalloped potatoes are done when they are golden brown on top and tender when pierced with a fork, usually after about 60 minutes of baking.

What do you need for scalloped potatoes?

For scalloped potatoes, you need Yukon gold potatoes, butter, garlic, flour, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese (optional), thyme, salt, and pepper.

How long are scalloped potatoes good for in the fridge?

Scalloped potatoes can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days when covered.

How long does it take for scalloped potatoes to thicken?

The sauce for scalloped potatoes typically thickens in about 5 minutes of cooking after adding the cream.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, creamy scalloped potatoes are a delightful addition to any Easter brunch table. Their rich flavors and creamy texture will surely impress your guests. For more inspiration and ideas, check out https://www.pinterest.com/Ellysrecipes/ for endless recipes and tips to elevate your culinary creations. Enjoy your festive gathering and the delicious food that brings everyone together!