Loaded Scalloped Potatoes are a decadent and comforting side dish that's perfect for any occasion. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes, caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese sauce come together to create a dish that's rich in flavor and texture. The caramelized onions add sweetness, the bacon adds a savory crunch, and the cheese sauce ties everything together with its creamy goodness. After layering all the ingredients in a baking dish, the dish is baked until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. Serve it as a side dish with roasted meats or enjoy it as a main course with a salad.
Loaded Scalloped Potatoes are a decadent and comforting side dish that's perfect for any occasion. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes, caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese sauce create a harmonious blend of flavors that everyone will love.
INGREDIENTS
- Potatoes: 3 lbs of Yukon or russet potatoes, thinly sliced. The type of potato used will affect the texture and flavor of the dish, with Yukon potatoes being creamier and russet potatoes offering a fluffier texture.
- Bacon: 12 oz, cooked until crisp and crumbled. The bacon adds a smoky, savory element to the dish.
- Onions: 2 medium, thinly sliced and caramelized. Caramelizing the onions enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Unsalted Butter: 4 tbsp, used to create the roux for the sauce.
- All-Purpose Flour: 4 tbsp, combined with the butter to form a roux, which thickens the sauce.
- Whole Milk: 3 cups, gradually added to the roux to create a creamy sauce.
- Cheese: 8 oz of a combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere, shredded. The sharp cheddar adds a tangy flavor while the Gruyere adds a nutty richness.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tbsp, used for caramelizing the onions.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
- Step 2:
- Caramelize Onions: In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown. This process may take about 15-20 minutes. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 3:
- Cook Bacon: Using the same skillet, cook the bacon until it is crisp. Remove the bacon from the skillet, drain the excess grease, and crumble the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.
- Step 4:
- Prepare Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over the butter and whisk to form a roux. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Step 5:
- Make Sauce: Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes after it starts to simmer. Remove from heat.
- Step 6:
- Layer Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, start by layering half of the sliced potatoes evenly. Follow with a layer of caramelized onions, then crumbled bacon, and a layer of shredded cheese. Pour half of the sauce over these layers. Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients, finishing with the cheese and sauce on top.
- Step 7:
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After 1 hour, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Step 8:
- Cool and Serve: Allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve as a side dish with roasted meats or as a main course with a simple salad.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or a light red for a balanced meal.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or larger amounts in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Helpful Notes
- You can use a combination of different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, use heavy cream instead of whole milk.
- For a lighter version, use turkey bacon and reduced-fat cheese.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Jamie Oliver recommends using a mandoline to slice the potatoes evenly.
- Chef Ina Garten suggests adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a subtle, warming flavor.
- Chef Gordon Ramsay advises letting the dish rest before serving to allow the flavors to meld.