White Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes
This recipe has evolved over the past eight years. After I added the thyme, ham and sour cream, my husband declared, This is it! I like to serve this rich, saucy entree with a salad and homemade French bread.
This recipe has evolved over the past eight years. After I added the thyme, ham and sour cream, my husband declared, This is it! I like to serve this rich, saucy entree with a salad and homemade French bread.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cups 2% milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup,
- 8 cups thinly sliced peeled potatoes
- 3-1/2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
- 2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- Carbohydrate 3.16395574328038 g
- Cholesterol 18.9287500212338 mg
- Fat 6.71011610380366 g
- Fiber 0.133921809065787 g
- Protein 0.889452372659729 g
- Saturated Fat 4.20998346455336 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (93g)
- Sodium 79.7437381747364 mg
- Sugar 3.03003393421459 g
- Trans Fat 0.439690593333429 g
- Calories 76 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
- In a large saucepan, heat butter over medium-high heat.
- Add onion; cook and stir until tender.
- Stir in flour and seasonings until blended; gradually whisk in milk.
- Bring to a boil, stirring constantly; cook and stir 2 minutes or until thickened.
- Stir in soup.
- Remove from heat; stir in sour cream.
- In a greased 13x9-in. baking dish, layer half of each of the following: potatoes, ham, cheese and sauce.
- Repeat layers.
- Bake, covered, 30 minutes.
- Bake, uncovered, 40-50 minutes longer or until potatoes are tender.
My White Cheddar Scalloped Potato Journey: A Recipe Evolved
For years, I've been perfecting my scalloped potato recipe, always tweaking it to achieve that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness. This isn't just a dish; it's a story of culinary evolution, a testament to the power of experimentation and, of course, the unwavering support of a loving husband.
It all started with a simple desire – to create the ultimate comfort food. I began with a classic scalloped potato recipe, but something felt missing. It lacked that certain je ne sais quoi, that extra layer of flavor and richness. That's when I embarked on my culinary adventure, adding and adjusting ingredients, patiently refining each element until I finally achieved the masterpiece that sits before you today.
The journey wasn't always smooth. There were times when the potatoes were undercooked, the sauce too thin, or the cheese flavor not quite right. But each setback only fueled my determination. I experimented with different types of cheese, exploring the sharp bite of cheddar, the creamy tang of Gruyère, and even the nutty depth of Parmesan. Eventually, I settled on the sharp white cheddar, whose distinct flavor perfectly complemented the creamy sauce and delicate potatoes.
Then came the herbs. Initially, I used only salt and pepper, but something told me it needed more. I added a pinch of thyme, a dash of parsley, and watched as the dish transformed before my very eyes. The subtle earthiness of the thyme, the fresh lift of the parsley – they added complexity and depth, elevating the simple potatoes into something truly extraordinary.
But the real turning point, the moment everything clicked into place, came with the addition of ham. That's when my culinary experimentation took on a new significance. My husband, a discerning palate if there ever was one, took one bite and declared, “This is it!” It was at that moment that I knew I'd finally achieved my goal. This wasn't just another scalloped potato recipe; it was *the* scalloped potato recipe. A dish perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply a cozy night in.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It's a dish that allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine, a testament to the idea that sometimes, less is more. The creamy sauce, infused with the delicate aroma of thyme and the sharpness of cheddar, clings perfectly to each slice of tender potato. The cubes of fully cooked ham add a delightful salty tang, while the subtle hint of parsley elevates the dish's aromatic complexity.
Beyond its exquisite taste, this recipe embodies the spirit of culinary exploration. It reminds me that the most rewarding dishes are often the ones that evolve over time, shaped by experimentation, informed by feedback, and infused with love. It's a dish that's as much about the journey as it is about the destination, and it is a journey I am happy to continue sharing.
This scalloped potato recipe is more than just a meal; it's a family heirloom, a story etched in every delicious bite. It represents years of culinary adventures, moments of frustration, and ultimately, the satisfaction of creating something truly special. So gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and prepare to be amazed by the results. You'll not only enjoy a delectable meal, but you'll also experience the joy of culinary creation. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!
