Description
Creamy Loaded Scalloped Potatoes blend rich cheese, crispy bacon, and tender potatoes into a comforting classic. Cheese-lovers and potato enthusiasts will savor each indulgent, hearty bite of this irresistible side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 pounds (1.36 kilograms) potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon or russet)
- 12 ounces (340 grams) bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 ounces (227 grams) cheese (combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere)
Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Binding and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350F (175C) and coating a 9×13 inch baking dish with a light butter layer.
- Transform onions into a golden-brown delicacy by sautéing in olive oil over medium heat, seasoning with salt and pepper until caramelized. Transfer to a separate container.
- Utilize the same skillet to render bacon until crisp and brittle. Drain excess fat and crumble into small fragments.
- Craft a foundational roux by melting butter in a saucepan, then dusting flour across the surface. Whisk thoroughly and cook for 2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
- Develop a creamy sauce by gradually incorporating milk into the roux, whisking continuously. Allow mixture to simmer and thicken for 2-3 minutes.
- Construct flavor-packed layers in the baking dish: spread initial potato layer, distribute caramelized onions, sprinkle crumbled bacon, scatter cheese, and drizzle sauce. Repeat entire layering process.
- Shield dish with foil and bake for 1 hour. Uncover and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes until potatoes reach tender perfection.
- Rest the dish for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to settle before serving warm.
Notes
- Potato Selection Choose starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest texture and best absorption of the rich sauce.
- Cheese Variations Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a combination for more complex flavor profiles.
- Make-Ahead Friendly Prepare the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for maximum convenience.
- Dietary Modifications Substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk, and use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for lighter, vegetarian-friendly options.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg