Cheese And Scalloped Potatoes: The Perfect Melty Pair

Scalloped potatoes are a creamy, indulgent dish that is perfect as a comforting side for any meal. While the classic recipe does not include cheese, many variations include a range of different cheeses. The best cheeses for scalloped potatoes are those that melt well and have a strong flavour. This includes cheeses such as sharp cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, fontina, gruyere, parmesan, provolone, asiago, and Colby Jack.

Cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, fontina or gruyere

Cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, fontina, and gruyere are all popular choices for scalloped potatoes. Here's a more detailed look at each:

Cheddar

Cheddar is a versatile and widely available cheese that can add a sharp, tangy flavour to scalloped potatoes. It melts well and combines nicely with other cheeses, making it a good option for scalloped potatoes.

Mozzarella

Mozzarella is a mild and creamy cheese that can add a stringy, stretchy texture to scalloped potatoes. It melts easily and is often used in baked dishes, making it a good choice for those seeking a cheesy, indulgent dish.

Gouda

Gouda is a Dutch cheese with a rich, nutty flavour. It melts well and adds a nice depth of flavour to scalloped potatoes. It pairs well with other cheeses, such as parmesan, and can be smoked for an extra flavour dimension.

Fontina

Fontina is an Italian cheese with a creamy texture and a slightly sweet, nutty flavour. It melts easily and is often used in baked dishes, making it an excellent choice for scalloped potatoes. Fontina from the Aosta valley in Italy is considered the best for the most flavour.

Gruyere

Gruyere is a Swiss cheese with a luxurious texture and a nutty, salty, and slightly sweet flavour. It is the star ingredient in some scalloped potato recipes, adding a touch of indulgence to this classic side dish. Emmental, Jarlsberg, or Raclette cheese can be used as substitutes.

Parmesan

Ingredients:

You will need the following ingredients:

• Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
• Heavy cream or milk
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• Butter
• Garlic
• Onion
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme (optional)

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F.
• Peel and thinly slice the potatoes to a uniform thickness of about 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch. A mandoline can be used for even slicing.
• In a large saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic and onion until softened.
• Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
• Gradually add milk or cream, whisking to combine. You can also add chicken broth or stock for extra flavour.
• Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs if desired.
• In a baking dish, layer the potatoes, pouring the cream sauce over them.
• Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the potatoes.
• Cover the baking dish with aluminium foil and bake for about 30 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden.
• Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

• For a crispier top, broil the potatoes on medium heat for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
• Stir the potatoes periodically while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a fresher flavour.
• Let the potatoes rest for about 10 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to thicken.
• This dish can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.

Enjoy your delicious Parmesan scalloped potatoes!

Colby Jack

Scalloped potatoes, also known as potato gratin, is a classic side dish that pairs creamy potatoes with a cheesy sauce. When making this dish, one of the key ingredients is the cheese, and one variety that works exceptionally well in scalloped potatoes is Colby Jack.

In terms of taste, Colby Jack provides a subtle tanginess with a hint of sweetness, creating a well-rounded flavour profile that complements the potatoes without overwhelming them. Its creamy texture ensures that the sauce binds the dish together, creating a cohesive and indulgent eating experience.

To incorporate Colby Jack into your scalloped potatoes, start by shredding or grating the cheese. Layer thin slices of potato in a baking dish, alternating with layers of shredded Colby Jack. For an extra creamy sauce, prepare a béchamel sauce by cooking butter and flour together to form a roux, then whisking in milk until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg. Pour the sauce over the potatoes and cheese layers, ensuring everything is well coated.

Finally, bake the dish in the oven until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The result will be a delicious, comforting side dish with a gorgeous golden crust and a creamy, cheesy interior. With its mild flavour and superb melting qualities, Colby Jack is an excellent choice for scalloped potatoes, sure to impress both visually and palatially.

Provolone

Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food, perfect for any holiday gathering or weeknight dinner. The key to a great scalloped potato dish is a combination of cheeses that melt well and provide a creamy texture.

For the best results, it is recommended to buy a block of cheese and grate it by hand. Pre-shredded bagged cheeses tend to melt less smoothly and may not give you the desired creamy consistency.

So, if you're looking to impress your family and friends with a delicious and indulgent side dish, scalloped potatoes with provolone are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Mozzarella and sharp cheddar

When it comes to crafting the perfect scalloped potatoes, the cheese you choose plays a pivotal role in taking this comfort food to the next level. Combining mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheeses is an excellent option, offering both a creamy texture and a delightful sharpness that complements the potatoes beautifully. Here's a detailed guide to help you achieve scalloped potato perfection with this dynamic duo.

The Magic of Mozzarella

Mozzarella is renowned for its low melting point, which translates to a delightfully creamy texture when incorporated into scalloped potatoes. Its mild flavour also serves as an excellent canvas to showcase the sharpness of the cheddar. When combined with other cheeses, mozzarella acts as a binder, enhancing the overall stretch and melt factor in your dish. This means you can expect ooey-gooey, stringy goodness in every bite.

Sharp Cheddar: A Classic Favourite

Sharp cheddar is a go-to choice for scalloped potatoes, and for good reason. Its bold, tangy flavour adds a delightful kick to the dish, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavour. Cheddar also melts beautifully, contributing to the overall creaminess of the dish. When paired with mozzarella, sharp cheddar brings a nice balance, preventing the dish from becoming overly rich or heavy.

Perfecting Your Scalloped Potatoes

Now that you've settled on the cheese combination, here are some tips to ensure your scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly:

• Use a mandoline to slice your potatoes to a uniform thickness of about 1/8-inch. This ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
• Don't shy away from seasoning. Each layer of potatoes should be seasoned with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavour of the dish.
• For the best melt, grate your cheese by hand. Pre-shredded bagged cheeses tend to melt less smoothly, so investing a little elbow grease will pay off in the final product.
• Cover your scalloped potatoes with foil for the first 30-45 minutes of baking. This helps the potatoes cook through more evenly and prevents the cheese from browning too quickly.
• Allow your scalloped potatoes to rest for at least 20 minutes before serving. This resting period gives the sauce time to thicken, ensuring a perfect consistency.

Customisation Ideas

While mozzarella and sharp cheddar are the stars of this dish, you can further customise your scalloped potatoes with these ideas:

• Add some fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to the sauce for an extra layer of flavour.
• If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating additional cheeses like provolone or Asiago, which have proven to pair well with the dynamic duo.
• For a heartier meal, consider adding diced cooked bacon or ham between the layers of potatoes.

With these tips and tricks, you're well on your way to creating mouthwatering scalloped potatoes that will impress both yourself and your guests. Remember to enjoy the process and savour every bite of this comforting, cheesy dish!

Frequently asked questions