Let me tell you about my absolute favorite side dish: loaded scalloped potatoes! Oh my goodness, these creamy, cheesy layers of potatoes are like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine perfectly thin slices of potato bathed in rich heavy cream, then layered with melty cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. It’s a flavor explosion that just makes your taste buds dance! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these scalloped potatoes always steal the show. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be dreaming about making them again and again!
Ingredients for Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these loaded scalloped potatoes shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced – I love using russets for their creamy texture!
- 1 cup heavy cream – This is what makes everything rich and luscious.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Go for sharp cheddar for that extra kick!
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled – The crispy bits add an amazing crunch and flavor.
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped – Fresh and vibrant, they bring a lovely freshness to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season to your preference!
These simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a dish that’s absolutely irresistible. Trust me, you won’t be able to get enough!
How to Prepare Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
Now, let’s get cooking! Preparing these loaded scalloped potatoes is as easy as pie, and I promise you’ll love the process. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a nice, even bake.
- Layer the potatoes: Start by placing half of the thinly sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish. Make sure they’re spread out evenly!
- Add the cream: Pour half of the heavy cream over the potato layer, making sure every slice gets a bit of that goodness.
- Top it off: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions over the cream. Yum!
- Repeat the layers: Now, do the same with the remaining potatoes, cream, cheese, bacon, and green onions. You want those layers to be as beautiful as they are delicious!
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can really make it your own!
- Bake for about 45 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. The aroma will have your mouth watering!
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set a bit, making it easier to scoop those cheesy, loaded bites. Enjoy every single forkful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting – the perfect side for any meal!
- Loaded with flavor from crispy bacon and fresh green onions that brighten every bite.
- Simple ingredients and easy preparation mean you can whip it up without a fuss.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to impress family and friends at the dinner table.
- Perfect for meal prep – leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your loaded scalloped potatoes turn out perfect every time! Here are my top tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t skimp on the cream: The heavy cream is what makes this dish so rich and creamy, so make sure you pour enough to coat those potato slices well!
- Slice evenly: Try to slice your potatoes to about the same thickness – this way, they’ll cook evenly and avoid some being undercooked while others are mushy.
- Let it cool: After baking, give the dish a few minutes to cool before serving. This helps the layers settle and makes for easier serving.
- Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar is a classic, don’t hesitate to mix in some Gruyère or mozzarella for a fun twist on flavor and texture!
- Seasoning is key: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking, and feel free to add some garlic powder or paprika for an extra kick.
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to scalloped potato perfection in no time!
Variations of Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up, there are so many fun ways to customize your loaded scalloped potatoes! Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes between the layers for a little heat!
- Veggie Delight: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
- Herbed Goodness: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cream or sprinkle on top before baking for a fragrant finish.
- Cheesy Trio: Combine different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a touch of blue cheese for a rich and complex flavor.
- Breakfast Style: Add some sautéed onions and bell peppers, and top with a few fried eggs for a brunch twist!
Your possibilities are endless, and each variation brings its own delicious twist to this classic dish. Have fun experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a big batch of my loaded scalloped potatoes and you’ve got some leftovers? Lucky you! To keep your delicious creation fresh, let the dish cool to room temperature before storing it. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay good for about 3-4 days—if it lasts that long!
When it’s time to enjoy those cheesy leftovers, I recommend reheating them in the oven for the best results. Just preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave—just make sure to heat it in intervals, stirring occasionally, until it’s nice and hot. Enjoy every cheesy bite again!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into these loaded scalloped potatoes! Each serving (about one-sixth of the dish) is estimated to have:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. But hey, a little indulgence is totally worth it for such a delicious side dish!
FAQ Section
Got questions about loaded scalloped potatoes? Don’t worry, I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries that pop up:
Can I make loaded scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Of course! While russet potatoes are my go-to for creaminess, Yukon Golds or red potatoes work well too. Just remember to slice them evenly!
What can I serve with loaded scalloped potatoes?
These cheesy potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a fresh salad. They’re a versatile side that complements many main dishes!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to dive in again!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure your bacon and any added ingredients don’t contain gluten. Enjoy without worry!
Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: 5 Steps to Cheesy Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Loaded scalloped potatoes are a creamy, cheesy side dish packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer half of the potatoes in a greased baking dish.
- Pour half of the heavy cream over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle half of the cheese, bacon, and green onions.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cream, cheese, bacon, and green onions.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden.
Notes
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: loaded scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes, potato side dish
