Never-Fail Scalloped Potatoes

Submitted by Lise in Indiana

"Combining a little microwaving with traditional baking makes the potatoes tender every time - and speeds up the cooking time, too! Making the white sauce on the stove ensures a creamy result, as well. Vary the amount and type of cheese used to your personal preference."

 

• Ready In: 1hr
• Ingredients: 11
• Serves: 4-6

ingredients

• 6 potatoes, peeled
• salt and pepper, to taste
• 1⁄4 cup butter
• 1⁄4 cup flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1⁄2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1⁄4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1⁄8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1⁄2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375º F. Butter a 2-3 quart casserole.
2. Slice peeled potatoes in 1/4" slices; a mandolin makes this an easy job. Place potatoes in cold water for 2 or 3 minutes. Drain, but don't dry, the potatoes and place them in the casserole.
3. Season the potatoes well with salt and pepper. Cover with a lid (or vented plastic wrap) and microwave the "wet" potatoes for 5to 7 minutes on high power.
4. Meanwhile, prepare cheese sauce: in a small saucier, melt the butter, then add the flour. Whisk and cook the flour for 2 minutes over low heat. Add the milk and cream all at once, whisking well. Cook and stir until mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in seasonings and cheese, blending well.
5. Using hot pads, remove potatoes from the microwave and carefully remove cover (beware of the steam!). Pour the sauce over the potatoes and stir gently with a rubber spatula to coat the potatoes evenly.
6. Smooth the top and sprinkle with additional shredded cheese, or buttered bread crumbs, if desired. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, uncovered, until potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown. Serve immediately or at room temperature.

Reviews

[Amy Duchesne]

This was very nice and a lot better outcome than when you just put all the ingredients in the casserole dish and let it cook! I baked mine with buttered panko bread crumbs on top and it was yummy. Thanks for a good recipe! Reviewed for PAC Spring 2010.

 

[Lisa R]

Very good. The whole family voted as a make again item!