When you’re looking for a hearty side dish that combines creamy textures with cheesy flavors, scalloped potatoes are the perfect choice. By incorporating cheese powder into this classic dish, you create a richer, smoother, and more flavorful recipe. This version of scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder will quickly become your go-to comfort food for family gatherings and special occasions.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into how to create the perfect dish, why cheese powder is a game-changer, and tips for elevating your recipe.
Why Cheese Powder?
If you’ve never cooked with cheese powder, you’re in for a treat. This ingredient is not only versatile but also brings several benefits:
- Convenience: No shredding or melting of cheese is required. Just add a scoop for instant cheesy flavor.
- Consistency: Cheese powder integrates smoothly into sauces without clumping.
- Flavor Boost: It delivers a rich and tangy cheese taste that’s often hard to achieve with traditional shredded cheese.
For a high-quality cheese powder, check out King Arthur Baking’s Cheddar Cheese Powder, known for its robust flavor and smooth texture.
Scalloped Potatoes Recipe with Cheese Powder
Ingredients You’ll Need to prepare the scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder
To prepare this delicious dish, you’ll need simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients:
- 2 pounds of Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup cheddar cheese powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions to prepare the scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder
1. Prepare Your Potatoes
- Wash and peel the potatoes. Slice them thinly—about 1/8-inch thickness works best.
- Use a mandoline slicer for consistent results, ensuring the potatoes cook evenly.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour, whisking constantly until a smooth roux forms.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Add cheddar cheese powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency.
3. Layer and Assemble
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a layer of sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom.
- Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes and sauce, ensuring even coverage.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the dish cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Elevating Your Scalloped Potatoes
1. Add Protein for a Full Meal
Turn this side dish into a main course by adding:
- Cooked bacon crumbles for a smoky flavor.
- Shredded rotisserie chicken to create a hearty, protein-packed meal.
2. Incorporate Veggies
Layer in additional vegetables for color, texture, and nutrition:
- Sliced onions or leeks
- Chopped spinach or kale
- Diced bell peppers for a subtle crunch
3. Experiment with Spices
Enhance the dish with these optional seasonings:
- Paprika for a smoky, earthy taste.
- Nutmeg for a subtle, sweet undertone.
- Cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
For more inspiration, The Spruce Eats offers creative ways to upgrade your scalloped potatoes.
Nutritional Breakdown
Here’s the approximate nutritional information for one serving (serves 6):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fats | 8g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Calcium | 15% of RDI |
What Makes The Scalloped Potatoes With Cheese Powder Recipe Stand Out?
Perfect Texture
The thinly sliced potatoes and creamy cheese sauce ensure every bite is smooth and flavorful.
Customizable Ingredients
You can easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary needs. Substitute milk with almond milk for a dairy-free option or use gluten-free flour for those avoiding gluten.
How to Choose the Best Potatoes for Scalloped Potatoes
Choosing the right potatoes is essential to achieving the perfect texture and taste. Here’s what you need to know:
- Yukon Gold: These potatoes have a naturally creamy texture and hold their shape well during cooking, making them ideal for scalloped potatoes.
- Russet Potatoes: With their high starch content, they create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth consistency. However, they may fall apart if overcooked.
- Avoid Waxy Potatoes: Varieties like Red Bliss or Fingerlings are too firm and won’t achieve the creamy texture desired in this dish.
Tips for Success: Ensuring the Perfect Scalloped Potatoes
1. Slice Evenly
Consistent slicing is key to even cooking. Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to ensure uniform thickness.
2. Don’t Skip the Sauce
The cheese sauce is the heart of the recipe. Stir constantly while cooking the roux to avoid lumps, and let it thicken before pouring over the potatoes.
3. Cover, Then Crisp
Covering the dish during the first phase of baking ensures the potatoes cook through without drying out. Removing the foil for the last 15 minutes creates a golden, bubbly top layer.
4. Rest Before Serving
Let the dish sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to set, making serving easier and preventing a runny texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Raw Potatoes Without Parboiling: While not mandatory, parboiling can save time and ensure evenly cooked potatoes.
- Skipping Seasoning: Season each layer of potatoes for balanced flavors throughout the dish.
- Overcooking: Watch the final baking time closely to prevent the top layer from burning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do you use cheese seasoning powder?
Cheese seasoning powder is versatile and can be used in various dishes. In this recipe, it enhances the creamy sauce with a concentrated cheese flavor. Simply whisk it into the milk or sauce for an even consistency. You can also sprinkle it over popcorn or baked potatoes for a quick cheesy upgrade.
2. What is the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes?
While both dishes are creamy and cheesy, the main difference lies in the cheese. Scalloped potatoes are made with a milk or cream-based sauce, often using cheese powder or shredded cheese for flavor. Au gratin potatoes, on the other hand, have a breadcrumb topping and more layers of grated cheese.
3. What is the one trick Michael Symon uses to make perfect scalloped potatoes?
Chef Michael Symon recommends using a blend of cheeses in the sauce to create depth of flavor. He also advises adding a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the creamy elements of the dish. Additionally, slicing the potatoes as thinly as possible ensures uniform cooking.
4. How do you make Paula Deen’s scalloped potatoes?
Paula Deen’s version often includes heavy cream and layers of shredded cheddar cheese. She recommends seasoning the dish generously with garlic and onion powders, similar to this recipe. She also suggests adding breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Creative Variations of Scalloped Potatoes with Cheese Powder
1. Bacon and Chive Scalloped Potatoes
- Add crumbled cooked bacon between the layers for a smoky flavor.
- Sprinkle fresh chives on top before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
2. Spicy Jalapeño Scalloped Potatoes
- Dice fresh jalapeños or use pickled slices for a spicy kick.
- Substitute cheddar cheese powder with spicy pepper jack powder.
3. Broccoli and Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
- Layer steamed broccoli florets with the potatoes for added nutrition.
- Use a mix of cheddar and Parmesan powders for extra cheesiness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
1. Storing Leftovers
- Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- For freezing, wrap the dish tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
2. Reheating Scalloped Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 15-20 minutes, covered.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes.
Nutritional Breakdown
Here’s the approximate nutritional information per serving (serves 6):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 37g |
| Fats | 12g |
| Sodium | 550mg |
| Calcium | 18% of RDI |
Conclusion
This scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder is an easy yet indulgent dish perfect for any occasion. The creamy cheese sauce, paired with perfectly cooked potatoes, creates a comforting side dish that pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or even a simple green salad. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or looking for a cozy family meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
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