Why You’ll Love This Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
Loaded scalloped potatoes make for a comforting side dish that brings families together with its rich layers of thinly sliced potatoes, creamy roux sauce, cheese, bacon, and caramelized onions. This recipe stands out because it’s simple to whip up, even on busy nights, and takes just about 1 hour and 50 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re a beginner cook or someone who loves tweaking recipes, this dish delivers big on flavor without much fuss.
One reason this recipe shines is its ease of preparation. With straightforward steps like caramelizing onions in olive oil and layering ingredients, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time, perfect for busy parents or working professionals. Plus, the health benefits are a bonus, as potatoes provide potassium and cheese adds calcium, making it a balanced choice for diet-conscious folks or seniors looking for nutritious comfort food.
The versatility of loaded scalloped potatoes lets you adapt it to different needs, such as using vegan alternatives or gluten-free options. This makes it ideal for a wide audience, including students, newlyweds, or food enthusiasts experimenting in the kitchen. Overall, the distinctive flavor from the creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheese creates a satisfying bite that feels like a warm hug on your plate.
To learn more about how potatoes can fit into a healthy diet, check out this guide on health benefits of potatoes. Beyond that, the bold taste and customizable nature ensure this dish becomes a go-to favorite for gatherings or everyday meals.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
- 5. Mastering Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
- 8. Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
Essential Ingredients for Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making loaded scalloped potatoes turn out just right. This recipe uses fresh, simple items that build layers of flavor and texture. By following the list below, you’ll have everything needed for a creamy, savory dish that serves as a hearty side for any meal.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for caramelizing the onions and adding a smooth base.
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced to provide a sweet, caramelized depth.
- 12 ounces (about 340 grams) cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky, crispy element.
- 4 tablespoons (about 57 grams) unsalted butter to create the rich roux.
- 4 tablespoons (about 30 grams) all-purpose flour for thickening the sauce.
- 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk to form the creamy roux sauce.
- 3 pounds (approximately 1.36 kg) thinly sliced potatoes, such as Yukon gold or russet as the hearty base.
- 8 ounces (227 grams) cheese, preferably a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyere for gooey, melted layers.
- Salt and pepper to taste to enhance all the flavors.
For special dietary options, you can swap in vegan cheese and plant-based milk to keep things creamy for vegetarians. This list covers all the essentials, making it easy to shop and prepare without missing a beat. If you’re looking for more potato-based ideas, try this sweet potato casserole recipe from our site for a fun twist.
How to Prepare the Perfect Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Step-by-Step Guide
Making loaded scalloped potatoes starts with a few simple steps that lead to a delicious result. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your ingredients ready, like thinly slicing the potatoes and onions. This setup helps everything come together smoothly and ensures even cooking.
Next, caramelize the onions in 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until they turn golden and sweet. At the same time, cook the bacon until it’s crisp and then crumble it. For the sauce, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a pan, stir in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to make a roux, and gradually whisk in 3 cups of whole milk until it thickens slightly.
Now, assemble the dish in a baking pan by layering half the sliced potatoes, caramelized onions, crumbled bacon, cheese, and sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pan with foil and bake for 1 hour, then uncover and bake for another 30 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is bubbly.
Let the dish cool for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle. For dietary tweaks, consider using plant-based options in the sauce if needed. This method, which takes about 20 minutes to prep and 1 hour 30 minutes to cook, makes the potatoes creamy and full of flavor every time. If you enjoy casseroles, our loaded baked potato chicken casserole offers a similar hearty vibe.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
Loaded scalloped potatoes are flexible, so you can tweak them based on what you have on hand or your dietary goals. For protein swaps, try replacing bacon with smoked tempeh for a plant-based option that keeps things savory. Turkey bacon works well if you’re aiming for a lighter version with less fat.
When it comes to vegetables and sauce, sweet potatoes or cauliflower can stand in for regular potatoes to add a new twist. Use cashew cream or almond milk instead of whole milk to cut back on dairy while maintaining that creamy texture. Don’t forget to experiment with seasonings like herbs or spices to make the dish your own.
| Original Ingredient | Substitution Option | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Bacon | Smoked tempeh | Provides a similar smoky flavor for vegans |
| Whole milk | Almond milk | Keeps the sauce creamy without dairy |
| Potatoes | Sweet potatoes | Adds natural sweetness and extra nutrients |
These changes help everyone enjoy the dish, whether you’re a baking enthusiast or watching your calories.
Mastering Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Advanced Tips and Variations
To take your loaded scalloped potatoes to the next level, focus on techniques that ensure perfect results. For instance, parboil the potatoes briefly before baking to make them tender faster and achieve that creamy texture. Using a mandoline slicer for even slices helps everything cook uniformly, avoiding any tough spots.
Flavor variations can make this dish even more exciting, like adding caramelized onions for a hint of sweetness or mixing in smoked gouda with the cheese for deeper taste. You might also try spicy elements such as cayenne for a kick, or fresh herbs to brighten things up. Presentation matters too, so serve in individual ramekins for a special touch or top with chopped parsley for extra appeal.
If you’re planning ahead, assemble the dish and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. This is great for busy schedules and keeps the potatoes creamy when you reheat them. For more cheese ideas, different types like Gruyere can enhance the mix, as mentioned in the recipe. Overall, these tips let you personalize the dish while keeping it simple and fun.
How to Store Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Best Practices
Storing loaded scalloped potatoes properly helps keep them tasty for later. Put leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain their creamy goodness. Always let the dish cool to room temperature first to avoid any moisture buildup.
For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers, wrapping them tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes. This keeps the texture just right without making it soggy. For meal prep, divide the dish into servings ahead of time for easy weeknight meals.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
Can I prepare loaded scalloped potatoes ahead of time and still keep them creamy?
Yes, you can prepare loaded scalloped potatoes in advance. Assemble the casserole but only bake it covered for the first hour. Then let it cool completely with foil on, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for up to two days. Before serving, remove it from the fridge about an hour early, then bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes until heated through and bubbly. This method keeps the dish creamy without drying out.
What type of potatoes should I use for the best loaded scalloped potatoes?
Russet and Yukon gold potatoes work best. Yukon golds have a naturally buttery flavor and thin skins, so peeling isn’t always necessary. Thinly slicing either variety helps them cook evenly and quickly, resulting in tender, creamy layers that soak up the cheese and sauce.
How can I add flavor to loaded scalloped potatoes without using bacon?
If you prefer to skip bacon, caramelized onions are a great way to add savory, sweet depth. To caramelize, cook thinly sliced onions in olive oil over medium heat with a pinch of salt and pepper, stirring occasionally until golden brown. You can also add garlic or herbs like thyme for extra flavor.
What’s the best method to bake loaded scalloped potatoes evenly?
Bake covered with foil at 350°F for one hour to allow the potatoes to steam and become tender. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes to brown the cheese on top. This two-step process ensures the potatoes cook thoroughly without drying out.
Can I mix different cheeses in loaded scalloped potatoes, and which types work well together?
Mixing cheeses is a great way to enhance flavor and creaminess. Sharp cheddar adds boldness, while Gruyere provides nuttiness and melts smoothly. Other good options include mozzarella for stretch, Parmesan for a salty kick, or Monterey Jack for mild creaminess. Combining two or three cheeses can create a richer taste and texture.
Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten
Description
🥔 Indulge in rich, creamy layers of loaded scalloped potatoes combined with crispy bacon and melted cheese for a satisfying side dish.
🧀 This comforting recipe is perfect for family dinners and special gatherings, bringing warmth and hearty flavors to your table.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for caramelizing the onions and adding a smooth base
2 medium onions, thinly sliced to provide a sweet, caramelized depth
12 ounces (about 340 grams) cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky, crispy element
4 tablespoons (about 57 grams) unsalted butter to create the rich roux
4 tablespoons (about 30 grams) all-purpose flour for thickening the sauce
3 cups (720 ml) whole milk to form the creamy roux sauce
3 pounds (approximately 1.36 kg) thinly sliced potatoes, such as Yukon gold or russet as the hearty base
8 ounces (227 grams) cheese, preferably a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyere for gooey, melted layers
Salt and pepper to taste to enhance all the flavors
Instructions
1-First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your ingredients ready, like thinly slicing the potatoes and onions. This setup helps everything come together smoothly and ensures even cooking.
2-Next, caramelize the onions in 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until they turn golden and sweet. At the same time, cook the bacon until it’s crisp and then crumble it. For the sauce, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a pan, stir in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to make a roux, and gradually whisk in 3 cups of whole milk until it thickens slightly.
3-Now, assemble the dish in a baking pan by layering half the sliced potatoes, caramelized onions, crumbled bacon, cheese, and sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pan with foil and bake for 1 hour, then uncover and bake for another 30 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is bubbly.
4-Let the dish cool for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle. For dietary tweaks, consider using plant-based options in the sauce if needed. This method, which takes about 20 minutes to prep and 1 hour 30 minutes to cook, makes the potatoes creamy and full of flavor every time.
Notes
🧅 Caramelizing onions adds depth and sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
🥓 Use crispy bacon for texture contrast in the dish.
🧀 Combining sharp cheddar with Gruyere provides rich, complex cheese flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Loaded Scalloped Potatoes, Cheese and Bacon Potatoes, Creamy Potato Side, Comfort Food