Creamy Martha Stewart Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Martha stewart scalloped potatoes: This classic comfort food features thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce, creating a rich and satisfying dish.

This dish is a timeless comfort food classic featuring thinly sliced potatoes baked in a luscious cream sauce. Enhanced by a delicate balance of seasonings and often finished with a golden-brown topping, it offers a rich and satisfying culinary experience.

The tender potatoes, layered within the velvety sauce, create a delightful textural contrast. The aroma of warm cream, hints of garlic, and the subtle nuttiness of browned cheese coalesce into an enticing invitation to indulge.

Scalloped potatoes have secured a cherished place on family tables for generations, evoking memories of cozy gatherings and holiday feasts. Its simple elegance makes it a fitting accompaniment to celebratory meals and comforting weeknight dinners alike.

The recipes beauty lies in its adaptability. From incorporating different cheeses to adding a touch of spice or herbs, the basic formula welcomes personalization, suiting various tastes and preferences with ease. It requires simple techniques and readily available ingredients.

Variations abound, with some cooks opting for a sharper cheddar, a smoky Gruyre, or even a hint of nutmeg to deepen the flavor profile. Paired traditionally with roasted meats or ham, scalloped potatoes complement a wide range of main courses.

Ready to create your own version of this beloved dish? The following steps will guide you through the process, ensuring a delicious outcome that is sure to impress.

Creamy Texture

The hallmark of outstanding scalloped potatoes lies in its luxuriously creamy texture. In the realm of Martha Stewart’s take on this classic, the balance between perfectly cooked potatoes and a velvety smooth sauce elevates the dish. It transcends simple comfort food to a culinary experience.

This desired creaminess stems from several factors: the starch released as thinly sliced potatoes bake, thickening the sauce naturally; the richness of the dairy, whether milk, cream, or a combination thereof; and the careful control of temperature and cooking time. An undercooked sauce will be thin and watery, while overcooking can result in a grainy or separated consistency. The choice of potato variety contributes; Yukon Golds, with their moderate starch content, strike an ideal balance.

Ultimately, the creamy texture in Martha Stewart’s scalloped potatoes acts as a unifier, binding the individual components into a harmonious whole. It is a testament to the recipe’s careful construction and a key indicator of its success. Mastering this aspect transforms an ordinary side dish into a memorable component of any meal, underscoring the importance of technique and quality ingredients.

Even Cooking

Achieving uniformly cooked potatoes is central to the success of Martha Stewart’s scalloped potatoes. It ensures each slice reaches its optimal tenderness, preventing any unpleasant textural discrepancies that could detract from the overall experience.

• Uniform Slicing

  Consistency in slice thickness promotes even heat distribution. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife to create slices of equal width is crucial. Varied thicknesses lead to some potatoes being undercooked while others become mushy, disrupting the harmony of the dish.

• Proper Layering

  Arranging the potato slices in even, overlapping layers maximizes heat exposure to each piece. Overcrowding can prevent proper cooking, resulting in some areas remaining firm. Thin, even layers are key to a consistent and satisfying texture.

• Consistent Sauce Distribution

  Ensuring that the creamy sauce permeates all layers of potatoes is vital for uniform cooking. Pockets of dry potatoes occur when sauce is unevenly distributed. A generous and consistent application of the sauce guarantees that each slice receives adequate moisture and heat.

• Baking Temperature and Time

  Maintaining a stable oven temperature is critical for even cooking. Fluctuations cause inconsistent results. Adhering to the recommended baking time and checking for doneness with a fork ensures potatoes are tender throughout, not just on the surface.

These carefully considered elements work in synergy to deliver the promise of even cooking, turning simple ingredients into a dish that epitomizes comfort and culinary finesse. Each bite offers a testament to the precision and attention to detail inherent in a well-executed recipe.

Flavor Balance

The appeal of Martha Stewart’s scalloped potatoes stems significantly from its exquisitely balanced flavors. It’s a harmonious blend where no single element overwhelms the others, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. This balance is not accidental but rather the result of careful ingredient selection and precise execution.

Consider the potatoes themselves: their earthiness is subtly enhanced by the creamy richness of the sauce. The subtle sharpness of Gruyre or the gentle tang of cheddar cheese cuts through the richness, preventing the dish from becoming monotonous. Aromatics like garlic and nutmeg are used sparingly, adding depth without overpowering the delicate potato flavor. Salt and pepper, of course, play a pivotal role, acting as conductors, bringing out the best in each ingredient.

Mastering the flavor balance ensures a deeply satisfying culinary experience. It transforms a simple side dish into something truly memorable. Challenges in achieving this balance underscore the importance of restraint and attention to detail. When all elements are in harmony, Martha Stewarts scalloped potatoes stand as a testament to the power of simple flavors, elevated through mindful preparation, to become a classic for generations.

Recipe Metadata

• Categories: Comfort Food, Holiday Recipes, Side Dishes
• Courses: Side Dishes, Dinner
• Cuisines: American
• Keywords: Cheesy, Creamy, Potatoes, Baked, Thanksgiving, Christmas

Estimated Cost: $12.00 total

Preparation Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Recipe Yield: Serves 6-8 people

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the dish
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1 1/2 cups Gruyre cheese, shredded

Instructions

• Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. This step ensures the potatoes won’t stick.
• Step 2: Saut the Aromatics: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds a flavorful base for the sauce.
• Step 3: Create the Bechamel: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
• Step 4: Season the Sauce: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The sauce should be well-seasoned to complement the potatoes.
• Step 5: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce: Arrange a layer of potato slices in the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly. Pour about one-third of the sauce over the potatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle with about one-third of the Gruyre cheese. Repeat the layers twice more, ending with a final layer of sauce and cheese.
• Step 6: Bake the Potatoes: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown. A fork should easily pierce the potatoes when they are done.
• Step 7: Rest Before Serving: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.

Optional: For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with chicken broth. Additionally, consider adding a layer of thinly sliced ham or bacon between the potato layers for a heartier dish.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

Essential Cooking Equipment

• 9×13 inch Baking Dish
• Large Saucepan
• Whisk
• Sharp Knife or Mandoline
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Cutting Board
• Oven

Variations

Martha Stewart’s scalloped potatoes offer a versatile canvas for culinary exploration. Numerous adaptations cater to individual preferences and dietary requirements.

• Ingredient Swaps:
  • Substitute Gruyre cheese with cheddar, Parmesan, or a blend of cheeses.
  • Replace whole milk with a combination of half-and-half and vegetable broth for a lighter version.
  • Add sliced ham, bacon, or cooked sausage between potato layers for a heartier dish.
  • Incorporate sauted mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted garlic for added flavor depth.
• Regional Twists:
  • Incorporate a touch of Dijon mustard or horseradish into the sauce for a sharper flavor profile, reminiscent of certain European preparations.
  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a Southwestern-inspired variation.
• Dietary Adjustments:
  • Prepare a dairy-free version by using plant-based milk and a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Ensure gluten-free status by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Scalloped potatoes are a versatile side dish, suitable for a wide range of occasions. It complements roasted meats, poultry, and fish dishes. Serve it alongside a holiday ham, a roasted chicken, or grilled steak. It serves as a comforting addition to potlucks and family gatherings.

For a complete meal, consider serving with a green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the potatoes. Garnishing with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Storage Tips

Proper storage ensures the scalloped potatoes remain fresh and flavorful.

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the potatoes to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350F (175C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.

Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the potatoes and sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Question 1: Can the scalloped potatoes be prepared in advance?

  The dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.

• Question 2: How can I prevent the potatoes from browning too quickly?

  Cover the dish with aluminum foil during the initial baking period, removing it for the final 20-25 minutes to allow the cheese to brown.

• Question 3: What type of potatoes works best for this recipe?

  Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended due to their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape during baking. Russet potatoes can also be used, but may require a longer cooking time.

• Question 4: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

  While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and provides a better flavor. It often contains cellulose that inhibits melting.

Summary & Final Thoughts

Martha Stewart’s scalloped potatoes offer a comforting culinary experience. Its creamy texture and balanced flavors create a classic, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s simple to make and satisfying.

The recipe’s versatility invites you to customize it with your favorite cheeses, spices, or additions like ham or bacon. Make it your own, and adapt it to any occasion.

We encourage you to try this recipe and share your results with us. Let us know how you tweaked it to fit your tastes and preferences. Your experiences and insights will help others.

Happy cooking! We hope you enjoy every bite of this timeless dish. Let us know how yours turns out!