Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent? Look no further than our Cheese Scalloped Potatoes and Carrots! This mouthwatering recipe combines tender layers of potatoes and carrots smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this cheesy masterpiece is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. With just a little bit of prep and a dash of love, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Let’s dive into the recipe that will make you the star of your kitchen!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 2 cups sliced carrots
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash and thinly slice potatoes (about 1/8 inch thick) using a sharp knife or mandoline. Slice carrots into similar thin rounds to ensure even cooking.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove sauce from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, followed by a layer of sliced carrots. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the vegetables.
- Repeat layering with remaining potatoes, carrots, and cheese sauce. Ensure vegetables are evenly covered and distributed.
- Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top for an extra cheesy crust.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes to allow vegetables to soften.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best texture, opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They create a fluffy interior that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- Slice Evenly: Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly uniform potato and carrot slices. This ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Make a Velvety Sauce: When whisking the flour and butter, be sure to cook it long enough to eliminate the raw flour taste. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for added flavor and creaminess.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall flavor.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: For an extra layer of texture, consider adding breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before the final baking phase. This will give your dish a delightful crunch.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh flavor to balance the richness of the cheese.With these tips in mind, you’re ready to create a Cheese Scalloped Potatoes and Carrots dish that’s sure to be a hit at your table!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
