Best loaded scalloped potatoes

Best loaded scalloped potatoes recipe: Irresistible in 5 steps!

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Best Loaded Scalloped Potatoes Recipe: Irresistible in 5 Steps!

Table of Contents

Welcome, fellow food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a dish that’s guaranteed to steal the show at any meal: the best loaded scalloped potatoes recipe. Imagine thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, layered with crispy bacon and fresh chives, then baked until bubbly and golden. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a culinary experience waiting to happen.

Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, a comforting family dinner, or simply craving something extraordinary, these loaded scalloped potatoes are your answer. They’re surprisingly easy to make and the perfect crowd-pleaser. Get ready to impress everyone with this ultimate cheesy potato bake!

1. Introduction to the Ultimate Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes have long been a beloved classic, known for their comforting layers of tender potatoes and savory sauce. But why stop at classic when you can go “loaded”? This version elevates the traditional dish with irresistible additions like crispy bacon and vibrant green onions.

Our goal today is to guide you through creating a dish that is not only incredibly flavorful but also visually stunning. This best loaded scalloped potatoes recipe will become a staple in your kitchen, delivering warmth and satisfaction with every bite. It’s truly a standout comfort food side.

2. Why This is the Best Loaded Scalloped Potatoes Recipe You’ll Ever Make!

What sets this recipe apart from the rest? It’s the perfect balance of creamy texture, savory depth, and cheesy goodness. We’re using a blend of cheeses that melt beautifully, creating an unctuous sauce that clings to every potato slice.

The addition of smoky bacon provides a delightful crunch and robust flavor, while fresh herbs cut through the richness, keeping each forkful exciting. This isn’t just another potato dish; it’s a truly spectacular bacon potato gratin that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s an easy holiday side that always gets rave reviews!

3. What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Perfect Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary success. Quality ingredients make all the difference in achieving that irresistible taste and texture for your best loaded scalloped potatoes recipe.

  • 2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended!)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (or Monterey Jack)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions, plus extra for garnish

4. Step-by-Step Instructions: Your 5-Step Guide to Irresistible Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping dish. Precision in layering and sauce-making will ensure your scalloped potatoes are perfect every time. This straightforward guide makes preparing the best loaded scalloped potatoes recipe an absolute breeze.

4.1. Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes & Bacon

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Peel and thinly slice your potatoes. A mandoline slicer is excellent for achieving uniform thickness, which ensures even cooking. Rinse the potato slices in cold water to remove excess starch, then pat them completely dry.
  3. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove the bacon, drain on paper towels, and once cool, crumble it into small pieces. Reserve a tablespoon of the bacon fat if desired for extra flavor in your sauce.

4.2. Step 2: Whisk Up the Creamy Cheese Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter (and reserved bacon fat, if using) over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  2. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Add the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheeses, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Finally, fold in the chopped chives or green onions.

4.3. Step 3: Layering for Maximum Flavor

  1. Arrange one-third of the potato slices in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
  2. Pour one-third of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle with one-third of the crumbled bacon.
  3. Repeat this layering process two more times, ending with a generous layer of cheese sauce and bacon on top.

4.4. Step 4: Bake to Golden-Brown Perfection

  1. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil.
  2. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.
  3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it again loosely.

4.5. Step 5: The Final ‘Loaded’ Touches

  1. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes for cleaner serving.
  2. Garnish with extra fresh chopped chives or green onions. Serve hot and enjoy the incredible flavors of your best loaded scalloped potatoes recipe!

5. Expert Tips & Delicious Variations

To truly master this dish, consider these expert tips. For an even richer sauce, you can substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for some of the whole milk. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite cheese blends for a unique twist. For more culinary inspiration, check out this fantastic resource on Serious Eats.

Feeling adventurous? Try adding thinly sliced caramelized onions to a layer for a sweet and savory depth. You can also incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick, or a few sprigs of fresh thyme for an earthy aroma. This dish is versatile and truly a fantastic dinner party potatoes option.

Remember, uniform potato slices are key for even cooking. A mandoline makes this task quick and easy, ensuring every bite is perfectly tender. You can find more See others recipes here to complement your meal.

6. Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

These loaded scalloped potatoes are robust and satisfying, making them an ideal partner for a variety of main courses. They shine alongside roasted meats like a juicy prime rib, a perfectly cooked ham, or a tender roasted chicken.

For a more casual meal, pair them with grilled steak or pork chops. The creamy, cheesy goodness also complements simple green salads, providing a beautiful contrast in texture and flavor. Don’t forget a good bottle of wine – a Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir would be excellent choices to accompany your best loaded scalloped potatoes recipe.

Foire Aux Questions

Can I prepare this loaded scalloped potatoes recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Prepare the potatoes and sauce, layer them in the baking dish, and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as directed, potentially adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover loaded scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, though the texture might be slightly softer.

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

While Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their starch content and creamy texture, you can experiment with other varieties. Red potatoes or new potatoes can be used, but they might yield a slightly firmer texture as they contain less starch. Ensure they are sliced thinly and uniformly for best results in this best loaded scalloped potatoes recipe.

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