Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions recipe

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a beloved classic comfort food, and the addition of caramelized onions takes this dish to the next level. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any time you crave a rich, savory side dish.

Ingredients

To make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions, you’ll need:

• Main Ingredients:
  • 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional Additions:
  • 1 teaspoon thyme or rosemary
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation

Slicing the Potatoes:

1. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8-inch thick.
2. Rinse the potato slices in cold water and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.

Caramelizing the Onions:

1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
4. Season with a pinch of salt and set aside.

Making the Cheese Sauce

Ingredients for the Sauce:

1. 1/4 cup unsalted butter
2. 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3. 2 cups whole milk
4. 1 cup heavy cream
5. 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
6. Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking the Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
3. Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Layering the Dish

Assembling the Ingredients:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
3. Spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom of the dish.

Adding Layers of Flavor:

1. Arrange a layer of potato slices over the cheese sauce.
2. Top with a portion of the caramelized onions.
3. Pour some of the cheese sauce over the onions and potatoes.
4. Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese sauce.

Baking Instructions

Optimal Temperature and Time:

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Ensuring Even Cooking:

1. To ensure even cooking, occasionally rotate the baking dish in the oven.
2. Check the potatoes with a fork to ensure they are tender before removing from the oven.

Variations

Using Different Cheeses:

1. Try using a combination of cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or gouda for different flavor profiles.

Adding Protein:

1. Add cooked, diced ham or crispy bacon between the layers for a heartier dish.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Pairings:

1. Serve with roasted meats, such as chicken or beef, and a fresh green salad.

Presentation Tips:

1. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.

Storage Tips

Keeping Leftovers Fresh:

1. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:

1. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option.

Tips for Success

Achieving the Perfect Texture:

1. Slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
2. Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices.

Avoiding Common Mistakes:

1. Don’t skip rinsing the potato slices, as this removes excess starch and prevents the dish from becoming too thick.

FAQs

1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
   • Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and bake it when needed.
2. What Potatoes Work Best?
   • Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, but Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a creamier result.
3. How Do I Store Leftovers?
   • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Can I Freeze Scalloped Potatoes?
   • Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
   • Add herbs like thyme or rosemary, or sprinkle Parmesan cheese between layers.

Conclusion

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions is a comforting and delicious side dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this dish will be a welcome addition to any meal. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness with every bite!

Yield: 8

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions recipe

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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a beloved classic comfort food, and the addition of caramelized onions takes this dish to the next level. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any time you crave a rich, savory side dish.

Prep Time 30 minutes

Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes

Total Time 3 hours

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
• kosher salt and black pepper
• 1/4 cup dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 pinch cayenne
• 3/4 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 russet or yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1/8-inch-thick slices

Instructions

1.  Preheat the oven to 350° F.
2. Melt together the butter and onions in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring occasionally until softened, about 10 minutes. At this point, you'll want to add the wine and continue to cook another 5 minutes until the onions are deeply caramelized.
3. Add the garlic and thyme, then season with salt and pepper. Cook another 2 minutes, then remove from the heat
4. Butter a 9x13 inch casserole dish. In a large glass measuring cup, combine the cream, milk, a pinch of cayenne, salt, and pepper. Then add the Gruyere cheese. Pour 1/3 of the milk mix into the bottom of the baking dish. Layer in 1/3 of the potatoes, and 1/2 of the onions. Add another 1/3 milk mix, then 1/3 of the potatoes, and then the remaining onions. Add the remaining potatoes, then pour over the last of the remaining milk mix. Try to get the potatoes in an even layer.
5. Cover and bake 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours. Remove the foil and top with cheddar cheese. Bake another 20 minutes, until the cheese is golden and melty. Serve the dish warm, topped with fresh thyme.