Add a touch of elegance to your dinner table with this delightful twist on a classic favorite – Elegant Scalloped Potatoes. Krista Wilson from Edgerton, Kansas, wanted to elevate her usual scalloped potato recipe, and she succeeded by incorporating bacon, green onions, and extra cheese. The convenience of microwaving expedites the preparation process, but for even greater time-saving benefits, you can prepare this dish a day in advance.
INGREDIENTS:
- 8 large baking potatoes
- 6 tablespoons butter, cubed
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 to 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 3½ cups milk
- 12 ounces process cheese (Velveeta), cubed
- ⅓ cup crumbled cooked bacon
- 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup sliced green onions
PREPARATIONS:
- Scrub the baking potatoes and pierce them; place them on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 15-20 minutes until tender. Allow them to cool slightly.
- In a saucepan, melt the cubed butter. Stir in the flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth; gradually whisk in the milk. Bring it to a boil, cooking and stirring for 2 minutes until thickened. Add the process cheese and bacon, stirring until the cheese is fully melted. Remove the mixture from heat and set it aside.
- Cut the cooked potatoes into ¼-inch slices. Place one-third of the slices in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish and top with one-third of the cheese sauce. Repeat these layers twice. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and sliced green onions on top.
- Bake the dish, uncovered, at 350° for 15 minutes or until the cheese is thoroughly melted.
YIELD: 10-12 servings
PREP/Bake TIME: 30 minutes (15 minutes baking)
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS AND TIPS:
- For a smokier flavor, consider using smoked bacon in the recipe.
- To add extra depth to the dish, experiment with different varieties of cheese, such as Gouda or gruyere, to replace or complement the process cheese.
- Make-ahead tip: Assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
Experience the sophistication of Elegant Scalloped Potatoes, a delightful rendition of the classic side dish, as presented by Krista Wilson from Edgerton, Kansas. This unique recipe transforms the traditional scalloped potatoes into a gourmet delight by adding bacon, green onions, and extra cheese. The convenience of microwaving expedites the preparation process, making it an excellent choice for any dinner gathering.
Preparation begins with baking the large potatoes in the microwave until they are tender and ready for assembly. In a savory twist, butter, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper combine to create a creamy and flavorful cheese sauce, enhanced by the addition of cubed process cheese and crumbled bacon. This delectable sauce is layered between the sliced potatoes to create an elegant and rich casserole.
As the dish bakes to perfection, the mouthwatering aroma fills the air, whetting the appetites of all who await its unveiling. Shredded cheddar cheese and sliced green onions add the final touch, creating a beautiful presentation.
Versatile and crowd-pleasing, Elegant Scalloped Potatoes can be paired with a variety of main dishes, providing a touch of sophistication to any meal. For an extra smoky note, opt for smoked bacon, elevating the flavor profile even further.
To experiment with different cheese varieties, consider replacing or complementing the process cheese with options like Gouda or gruyere, adding a unique dimension to the dish.
This recipe’s make-ahead option allows you to prepare the dish a day in advance, saving valuable time when planning a gathering. Simply refrigerate the assembled casserole, and before baking, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
In conclusion, elevate your dining experience with the elegance of Elegant Scalloped Potatoes. Krista Wilson’s recipe brings sophistication to a beloved classic, making it an ideal accompaniment to any dinner, whether it’s a family meal or a special gathering. The delightful combination of flavors and textures promises to leave a lasting impression on all who savor this exceptional dish.
