Name: Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with either butter or non-stick cooking spray.
After peeling the potatoes, carefully slice them into thin rounds, approximately 1/8-inch thick. To prevent discoloration while you focus on making the sauce, soak the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium-sized saucepan, begin by melting the butter over medium heat until it becomes fragrant.
Introduce the minced garlic, allowing it to cook for approximately 1 to 2 minutes, releasing its aromatic essence.
Following this, evenly sprinkle the flour over the melted butter, ensuring continuous whisking to create a smooth paste known as a roux.
Continue cooking the roux for a duration of 2 to 3 minutes, diligently stirring to prevent any clumps from forming.
Gradually incorporate the milk into the mixture while maintaining a constant whisking motion, ensuring a lump-free consistency.
Proceed to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens and effectively coats the back of a spoon, typically requiring 5 to 7 minutes.
To finalize the sauce, season it with salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg to your desired taste preferences, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

After draining the sliced potatoes, gently pat them dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Proceed to layer the bottom of the greased baking dish with the sliced potatoes, ensuring a slight overlap between each piece.
Evenly distribute a portion of the creamy sauce over the layer of potatoes, using a spoon to spread it evenly.
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Gruyere cheese atop the sauce, adding a savory touch to the dish.
Repeat this process, layering the potatoes, sauce, and cheese until all ingredients are utilized, culminating in a final layer of sauce and cheese on top for an enticing finish.

Step 4: Bake the Scalloped Potatoes

After covering the baking dish with aluminum foil, carefully transfer it into the preheated oven.
Allow the dish to bake undisturbed for a duration of 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and prolong the baking process for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes achieve a tender consistency and the surface develops a golden brown hue, accompanied by delightful bubbling.
Once fully baked, retrieve the scalloped potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool for a brief period before serving.
For a final touch of visual appeal and flavor, optionally garnish the dish with fresh thyme leaves.

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Equipment

Notes