Simply Perfect Scalloped Potatoes Recipe with Cheese Powder

If you’re craving something that’s both satisfying and comforting, look no further than Scalloped Potatoes. This classic dish is always a crowd-pleaser, and with a few simple adjustments, you can make it even more delicious. Instead of relying solely on fresh cheese, this recipe adds a flavorful twist with cheese powder, which makes the sauce extra creamy and cheesier without the heaviness of traditional cheese. The tasty layers of red potato combined with the smooth, rich cheese powder create a dish that’s not only creamy but also golden and satisfying, perfect for any family dinner or special gathering.

This easy recipe uses basic ingredients, such as King Arthur Flour, for a smooth sauce and cheese powder to give the dish a distinct, savory flavor. The result is a cheesy sauce that melts beautifully into the scalloped potatoes, creating a comforting, creamy texture with every bite. Whether you’re preparing Weekday Scalloped Potatoes for your family or aiming to impress guests at a gathering, this recipe has all the components of comfort food with a rich, delicious taste that everyone will enjoy. It’s a simple yet special dish that brings out the cheesy goodness and adds a flavorful twist to the classic, making it a true standout at the dinner table.

Origin and History of Scalloped Potatoes with Cheese Powder

Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for many years. The dish is believed to have originated in Europe, particularly in France and England, where baked potato dishes were popular. The word “scalloped” comes from the old French term “escaloper,” which means to cut in thin slices. In the early versions, scalloped potatoes were made by layering thin slices of potatoes with cream or milk, butter, and seasoning, then baking them until golden and bubbly.

Over time, people began to add cheese to the dish, making it even more delicious. Cheese became a common addition in the United States in the 19th century as dairy products became widely available. Today, scalloped potatoes with cheese powder are a popular variation, especially for their ease of preparation. The cheese powder adds a rich, cheesy flavor without the need for melting fresh cheese, making the recipe quicker and simpler to prepare.

This dish has become a favorite for family gatherings, holidays, and as a side dish for many meals. Whether with cheese powder or fresh cheese, scalloped potatoes continue to be loved for their creamy, comforting taste.

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Ingredients for Scalloped Potatoes Recipe with Cheese Powder

To make this scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, minced
• 2 medium cloves garlic, minced or pressed with a garlic press
• 1 cup. low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup. heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
• 1-1/4 tsp. table salt
• 2-1/2 lbs. russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch thick pieces using a mandoline
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 oz. grated cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup. cheese powder

These ingredients come together to create the rich, creamy, and cheesy sauce that will coat the tasty layers of scalloped potatoes. The cheese powder adds that extra cheesier flavor, while the other ingredients help create a smooth and comforting dish.

Easy Instructions for Making Scalloped Potatoes

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 425 degrees. Place the oven rack in the middle position to ensure even heat distribution while baking.
2. Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and rinse them in cold water to remove any residual starch. This will help the potatoes maintain a smooth, tender texture. Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, slice the potatoes into thin, uniform rounds about 1/8-inch thick. The thin slices are key for even cooking and will give you that melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
3. Cook the onions and garlic: In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter melts and foaming subsides, add the onion and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and lightly browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Stir in salt and pepper for added flavor.
4. Make the sauce: Add chicken broth and cream to the pan. Stir in 1-1/4 tsp table salt and 1/4 tsp ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are almost tender when tested with a paring knife (the knife should slip through with slight resistance). Once done, discard bay leaves from the sauce.
5. Add the cheese powder: Stir in Vermont cheese powder and cheese powder until well-mixed. Ensure there are no lumps and the sauce is smooth. The cheese powder will give the dish its rich, cheesy aroma and flavorful taste.
6. Assemble the dish: Transfer the mixture to an 8-inch-square baking dish or 1 1/2-quart gratin dish. Press the mixture down into an even layer. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the potatoes. Repeat the layering of potato slices and cheese sauce if necessary to make sure all the potatoes are coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Bake the potatoes: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cream is bubbling at the edges.
8. Cool and serve: Let the scalloped potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the dish set and make it easier to serve.

Tips to Make Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

1. Slicing the Potatoes: To achieve even cooking and a consistent texture, slice the potatoes into thin, uniform rounds. Using a mandoline slicer is the easiest way to ensure each slice is the same thickness. If you use a sharp knife, take extra care to slice evenly, as uniform slices are crucial for a melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
2. Rinse the Potatoes: After slicing, rinse the potatoes in cold water to remove residual starch and debris. This step helps the potatoes absorb the cheesy sauce better and ensures a creamy texture. It also prevents the potatoes from becoming too starchy or clumpy while baking.
3. Layering the Potatoes: When layering the potatoes in your 8-inch-square baking dish or 1 1/2-quart gratin dish, make sure to press them down into an even layer. This allows the potatoes to cook evenly and absorb the cheese sauce more effectively, creating a delightful balance of creamy texture and tender bite.
4. Cheese Sauce Consistency: When making the cheese sauce, melt butter in a medium-sized saucepan over low heat to avoid browning. Whisk in flour to form a smooth roux and thicken the sauce. Be sure to whisk continuously to avoid lumps. After adding the cream and chicken broth, stir until the sauce becomes smooth and silky.
5. Baking Tips: For the perfect golden brown top, cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This will help cook the potatoes and allow the sauce to simmer without drying out. After removing the foil, bake for an additional 15 minutes to let the cream bubble up and form a beautifully crisp top.
6. Preheat the Oven Properly: Always preheat the oven to 425 degrees before starting. This ensures that the heat is at the right level and the potatoes will cook evenly.
7. Creamy and Cheesy Sauce: To make the cheese sauce extra creamy and full of flavor, stir in Vermont cheese powder and other seasonings like garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the cheese dissolves evenly, creating a smooth, rich flavor throughout the dish.

By following these expert tips, you can ensure that your scalloped potatoes turn out just right—crispy on top, creamy inside, with a perfect balance of cheesy goodness.

How to Prevent a Watery Casserole

To avoid a watery casserole, start by removing any excess moisture from the potatoes after slicing. Pat the potato slices dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove surface moisture. This step ensures the potatoes will absorb the creamy cheese sauce properly, preventing it from being diluted and keeping the dish rich and flavorful. If you skip this, the sauce may become too thin, making the layer less thick and velvety.

After baking the scalloped potatoes, it’s important to resist the urge to serve them immediately. Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting period allows the sauce to set and thicken, making it easier to serve without a runny consistency. By following these precautions, you’ll ensure your scalloped potatoes are perfectly creamy, well-structured, and have a full, cheesy flavor in every bite.

Enhancing the Flavor with Herbs and Spices

To add more depth to your scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder, consider enhancing the rich, savory base with fresh herbs. A sprinkle of parsley, thyme, or chives will provide a burst of freshness that complements the creamy cheese sauce. These herbs balance the richness of the dish and add a vibrant touch. If you prefer a smoky twist, try adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper to the sauce. This will give the potatoes an extra layer of flavor, making every bite even more delightful.

When incorporating these herbs and spices, it’s important to add them at the right time. Mix them into the sauce as it simmers, allowing the flavors to infuse properly. This way, the cheese powder and the fresh herbs combine to create a perfectly seasoned, creamy dish that’s bursting with flavor. By adjusting the amount of paprika or cayenne pepper, you can control the level of heat and ensure the dish remains balanced and flavorful.

Different Variations to Try

Cheesy Bacon Scalloped Potatoes

For a cheesy bacon scalloped potatoes twist, start by frying some crispy bacon bits in a pan over medium heat. Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease. When the bacon has cooled, crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Then, layer these bacon bits with your potato slices and cheese sauce as you assemble the dish. The smoky, salty flavor of the bacon combines perfectly with the creamy sauce and the delightful crunch adds a contrast to the soft, tender potatoes. This version gives the dish a savory twist, making it a favorite for bacon lovers.

Vegan-Friendly Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a vegan-friendly scalloped potatoes recipe, it’s easy to swap out dairy ingredients. Use dairy-free cheese powder in place of the regular cheese powder and replace regular milk with plant-based milk like almond milk or soy milk. To maintain that creamy texture, substitute regular butter with vegan butter, which will still melt and create a smooth base for your sauce. For added cheesy flavor, you can stir in nutritional yeast or vegan cheese seasoning. This version is completely dairy-free, yet still rich and flavorful, perfect for those following a plant-based or vegan diet.

Gluten-Free Scalloped Potatoes

For a gluten-free option, swap the usual all-purpose flour for cornstarch or arrowroot powder to thicken the sauce. These gluten-free thickeners will help achieve the same creamy texture without any lumps, ensuring a smooth, rich, and flavorful sauce. This is a great option for those avoiding gluten, and it won’t compromise the dish’s cheesy taste. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this gluten-free variation makes the dish suitable for everyone at the table.

By using these delicious variations, you can customize your scalloped potatoes recipe to suit any dietary preference while still enjoying a creamy, flavorful dish that everyone will love.

Conclusion

In conclusion, scalloped potatoes with cheese powder is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it ahead of time, experimenting with different ingredients like crispy bacon or fresh herbs, or opting for a dairy-free version, there are plenty of ways to make this recipe your own. By following simple tips to prevent excess moisture, ensuring your cheese sauce is smooth, and customizing the flavor with various cheese powders and spices, you can create a dish that is both creamy and delicious. With these easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be able to enjoy scalloped potatoes that are sure to impress every time!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best type of cheese powder to use?

Look for a cheese powder that’s used in macaroni and cheese. Choose one with natural flavors and avoid too many extra ingredients for the best taste.

2. Can I prepare scalloped potatoes in advance?

Yes, you can put the dish together a day before. Just cover it with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. How should I store leftover scalloped potatoes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

4. Can I use fresh cheese instead of cheese powder?

Yes, you can use freshly grated cheese like cheddar or Parmesan instead of cheese powder. You might need more cheese to get the same cheesy flavor.

5. Can I replace cheese with cheese powder?

Yes, you can use cheese powder instead of fresh cheese. It’s a quick and easy way to get a cheesy flavor without the need to shred or melt cheese. It makes the sauce creamy, too.

6. What’s the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes?

The main difference is the cheese. Scalloped potatoes have a creamy sauce, while au gratin potatoes include cheese layered on top, giving them a cheesy crust.

7. Can I make scalloped potatoes with dairy-free ingredients?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese powder, plant-based milk like almond or soy milk, and vegan butter for a creamy, dairy-free version.

8. Can I add other ingredients to customize the recipe?

Yes! You can mix in crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor, or add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to make the dish even tastier.

9. How do I prevent scalloped potatoes from being watery?

To prevent excess moisture, pat the potato slices dry with a paper towel before baking. This helps the potatoes absorb the sauce better and stay creamy.

10. Can I use different types of cheese powder in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with a spicy cheese powder for a kick, or use a blend of different cheese powders to change the flavor profile.

11. What is the best way to slice potatoes for scalloped potatoes?

For even cooking, use a mandoline slicer to cut the potatoes into thin, uniform slices. This ensures that every slice cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce perfectly.