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Make-Ahead Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Cream: The Ultimate Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the creamy, cheesy goodness of scalloped potatoes. This classic dish is a staple in many British households and is perfect for family gatherings, festive occasions, or simply as a comforting side dish. The best part? You can prepare it ahead of time, allowing the flavours to deepen and making it convenient for busy days.

The Allure of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are renowned for their rich, silky texture and indulgent flavour. Layered with thinly sliced potatoes, creamy sauce, and a generous handful of cheese, this dish strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and decadence. The addition of cream not only enriches the sauce but also helps to create that iconic velvety finish that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Why Make Ahead?

Making scalloped potatoes in advance has several advantages. Firstly, it allows the flavours to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that tastes even better the next day. Secondly, it reduces stress on the day of serving. With the preparation done beforehand, you can enjoy your time with family and friends without being stuck in the kitchen. Simply pop the dish in the oven while you focus on the rest of your meal.

Ingredients

To create your make-ahead cheesy scalloped potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

• 1.5 kg (about 3 lbs) of floury potatoes (such as Maris Piper or King Edward)
• 300 ml (10 fl oz) of double cream
• 300 ml (10 fl oz) of whole milk
• 200 g (7 oz) of mature Cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Method

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (about 2-3 mm thick). A mandoline slicer can be helpful for achieving even slices, but a sharp knife will do just fine.

3. Cook the onion and garlic: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being sure not to let it brown.

4. Make the creamy sauce: Pour in the double cream and milk, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Heat the mixture gently until just warmed through, but do not let it boil. Remove from the heat.

5. Layer the potatoes: In a large baking dish, create a layer of sliced potatoes. Sprinkle some of the grated Cheddar cheese over the top, followed by a drizzle of the cream mixture. Repeat the layering process until all the potatoes, cheese, and sauce are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.

Baking

1. Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

2. Uncover and brown: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife, and the top is golden and bubbling.

3. Cool and store: If you’re making this dish ahead of time, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and storing it in the fridge. It can be kept for up to two days.

Reheating

When you’re ready to serve, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). If baked from cold, reheat the scalloped potatoes covered for about 30 minutes, then remove the cover and bake for an additional 15 minutes to crisp up the top.

Serving Suggestions

Make-ahead cheesy scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with a range of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian options. They also make a hearty accompaniment to a fresh salad, offering a delightful contrast in textures.

Conclusion

This make-ahead cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe is the perfect solution for those wanting to enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal without the last-minute rush. The combination of creamy texture, robust cheese flavour, and ease of preparation makes it a must-try in every home. With a bit of planning, you can serve this dish and delight your family and friends, all while savouring the joys of good food and great company.

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