I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – Irish scalloped potatoes. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s always a hit with my kids and husband. The best part?
It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. The Irish, as we all know, are famous for their love of potatoes, and this recipe is a perfect representation of that affection. With its creamy sauce, crispy top layer, and fluffy interior, it’s a true comfort food that never fails to satisfy.
Whether you’re looking for a side dish for a special occasion or just a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. One of the reasons I love this recipe so much is that it’s so versatile – you can serve it as a main course or alongside your favorite roast meats or stews. And the best part?
It’s ridiculously easy to customize with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. My kids love helping me in the kitchen by adding shredded cheese or diced ham to their individual portions. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – with only a few simple ingredients like potatoes, butter, milk, and cheese, you can’t go wrong!
Not to mention the fact that this recipe is perfect for using up leftover potatoes or vegetables from your garden.
Irish Scalloped Potatoes
4.8 from 1798 votes
A comforting Irish twist on classic scalloped potatoes, featuring layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This dish is perfect as a hearty side for roasted meats or a satisfying main course.
2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 cup shredded Irish cheddar or sharp white cheddar
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Cream Sauce
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with the softened butter, ensuring the bottom and sides are lightly coated.
3In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
4Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and golden, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
7Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and just begins to simmer, about 5 to 7 minutes.
8Remove from heat.
9Arrange one-third of the potato slices in an even layer in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them.
10Season lightly with salt and pepper.
11Pour one-third of the cream sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
12Sprinkle one-third of the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses over the sauce.
13Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheeses, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top.
14Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
15Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and a knife inserted into the center meets no resistance, indicating the potatoes are tender.
16Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
17Serve warm as a side or main dish, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
For best results, use a mandoline slicer to ensure uniform potato slices for even cooking. You can substitute Irish cheddar with any sharp white cheddar, and for a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Watch Video Of How Irish Scalloped Potatoes Works
This Irish scalloped potatoes recipe is truly one of those dishes that never fails to impress – whether you’re serving it as part of a fancy dinner party or just having a cozy night in with leftovers from last night’s roast chicken. The best part?
It’s ridiculously easy to customize with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. My kids love helping me in the kitchen by adding shredded cheese or diced ham to their individual portions.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Irish Scalloped Potatoes
1. Can I make this Irish scalloped potatoes recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance. Just layer the potatoes, onions, and cream in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you are ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it starts cold.
2. What type of potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes?
I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They break down slightly during baking, which helps thicken the cream and creates a creamy texture. Waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes hold their shape too much and can result in a less creamy dish.
3. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute whole milk or half and half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. To compensate, you can add a tablespoon of flour to the milk to help thicken it. The dish will still taste good, but it will not be as decadent.
4. How do I prevent the potatoes from turning brown while I prep them?
Once you slice the potatoes, place them in a bowl of cold water with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. This stops them from oxidizing and turning brown. Just drain and pat them dry before layering to avoid adding extra water to the dish.
5. Can I add cheese or other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely. Many people add shredded cheddar or Gruyere between the layers or on top for extra flavor. You can also include cooked bacon, fresh thyme, or garlic for a twist. Just keep in mind that adding cheese may make the dish richer and increase the baking time slightly.
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