Quick & Flavorful Single-Serving Scalloped Potatoes
Dive into the world of single-serving scalloped potatoes, a recipe that stands out with its simplicity and elegance. It is perfectly portioned for one, combining the classic comfort of cheesy potatoes with a personal touch. It’s the ideal choice for a quick, yet indulgent meal that’s easy to customize and sure to satisfy.
Imagine the comfort of creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes, perfectly portioned for just you. Our single-serving scalloped potatoes recipe offers a delightful solution for a quick lunch or dinner, tailored to fit your busy lifestyle. You’ll adore this recipe for its simplicity and familiar ingredients.
Whether you’re dining solo or planning a cozy meal for two, these mini scalloped potatoes will surely be a hit. Their individual au gratin style presentation adds a touch of elegance to any meal.
It’s a small-batch scalloped potatoes recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
You’ll experience the joy of thinly sliced potatoes, layered with a rich homemade cream sauce, and baked to a golden, bubbly perfection.
Get ready to indulge in a dish that’s as satisfying to prepare as it is to savor.
🌟 Recipe Tips
- Variety Matters: For the best texture, choose starchy potatoes like Russets. They absorb the creamy sauce beautifully, making your cheesy potato scallops rich and satisfying.
- Consistent Slices: Thin, uniform slices are crucial. Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to get even slices. This consistency ensures that every bite cooks evenly.
- Balanced Creaminess: Half and half cream provides the ideal richness without being too heavy. It’s the perfect middle ground for a light yet indulgent sauce.
- Flavor with Care: A pinch of nutmeg adds depth to your sauce. Be cautious – a little goes a long way.
- Even Layering: Arrange the potato slices in your baking dish in an overlapping pattern. This not only looks appealing but also helps the potatoes cook uniformly.
- Cheese is Key: Parmesan cheese offers a salty, nutty flavor that complements the cream sauce. Sprinkle it generously between layers and on top for that golden crust.
- Rest Before Serving: Let your individual au gratin potatoes rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly, ensuring a perfect texture.
- Garnish for Freshness: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. This adds a burst of color and freshness to the rich dish.
🥘 Ingredients & Substitutes
- Potatoes are the star of this dish, providing both structure and a canvas for the flavors. Starchy potatoes like Russets are ideal for their ability to absorb the creamy sauce and soften beautifully when baked. If Russets aren’t on hand, Yukon Golds are a great substitute, offering a slightly waxier texture but still delicious.
- Parmesan Cheese brings a salty, nutty flavor that’s essential for the classic taste of scalloped potatoes. If Parmesan is out of reach, try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper edge, or Grana Padano for a milder option. Both cheeses melt well and offer a similar texture and flavor profile.
- Half and Half Cream creates the creamy, rich base of the sauce. It strikes the perfect balance between milk and heavy cream. If you’re out of half and half, a mixture of equal parts whole milk and light cream will work just as well. This combination will mimic the richness without being too heavy.
- Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and depth to the cream sauce, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering. If nutmeg is not available, a pinch of ground allspice or cinnamon can be used. These spices also provide a warm, nuanced flavor, though they should be used sparingly to avoid dominating the dish.
👩🍳 Directions
This recipe is ideal when you’re not in the mood for meat but still crave a satisfying meal. Plus, it doesn’t require much prep time, and while it’s baking, you have time for yourself. It can also be a refined side dish for a special dinner.
First, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Then, thoroughly wash the potatoes and peel them.
Quick Note:
Do not wash the potatoes after peeling them, especially after cutting. We need to keep as much starch in the potatoes as possible to achieve a creamy consistency. Additionally, it’s important to choose potatoes with a high starch content.
Slice the potatoes as thinly as you can. You can use a mandoline if you wish; I sliced them with a knife.
Arrange the potatoes in a thin layer, season with a little salt and nutmeg, and repeat the layers until all the potatoes are used.
I distributed the potato quantity into three layers, but the number of layers can vary depending on the baking dish you choose.
After arranging and seasoning the potatoes in the dish, carefully pour the cream over the top to evenly distribute it across the surface.
Finally, sprinkle a generous layer of grated cheese, which will form a golden, crunchy crust. Cover the baking dish with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Quick Note:
To easily cover with parchment paper, cut a piece of parchment paper suitable for your dish, then wet the paper thoroughly with water and crumple it up. After that, spread the paper back out, and it will be easy to handle and cover the dish well.
After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and carefully remove the parchment paper. Then, put the dish back in the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes until a golden, crunchy crust forms.
Serve hot, either as a main course with a green salad or as a side dish alongside your favorite protein.
🍴 How to Double the Recipe:
Doubling your single-serving scalloped potatoes recipe is straightforward and perfect for when you’re serving an extra guest or craving a bit more. Simply double each ingredient.
When it comes to baking, opt for a slightly larger dish to accommodate the increased volume.
Keep an eye on the baking time – it may need a few extra minutes to ensure the potatoes are cooked through and the top is golden and bubbly.
Adjust the seasoning accordingly, and you’ll have a delicious, larger batch of creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes ready to enjoy.
🍽️ Servings
Elegant Dinner for One
- Components: Pair the scalloped potatoes with a lean grilled chicken breast and a side of steamed green beans or asparagus.
- Presentation: Place the chicken and scalloped potatoes side by side on a sleek, modern plate. Position the green beans or asparagus neatly next to them, creating a balanced and visually appealing meal.
- Occasion: Perfect for a sophisticated yet easy-to-prepare dinner after a long day. This combination not only tastes great but also offers a balanced meal, ideal for a health-conscious individual.
Cozy Winter Lunch
- Components: Serve the scalloped potatoes with a side of roasted root vegetables, like carrots, parsnips, and beets, and a small, hearty salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
- Presentation: Arrange the roasted vegetables around the scalloped potatoes, bringing a burst of color and variety to the plate. The salad can be served in a small bowl or on the side, adding freshness to the meal.
- Occasion: Ideal for a warming and nourishing lunch during the colder months, providing comfort and a range of flavors and textures.
Casual Summer Picnic
- Components: Accompany the scalloped potatoes with cold cuts, a selection of cheeses, and a light, crisp cucumber salad.
- Presentation: Present the scalloped potatoes in the center of a picnic plate, surrounded by an assortment of cold cuts and cheeses. The cucumber salad can be served on the side in a small container.
- Occasion: Great for a relaxed summer picnic or a laid-back outdoor meal. This option is both refreshing and satisfying, perfect for a sunny day outdoors.
Gourmet Vegetarian Feast
- Components: Add a grilled portobello mushroom cap and a small serving of quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and avocado.
- Presentation: Place the grilled portobello mushroom on one side and the scalloped potatoes on the other, with the quinoa salad in a small bowl or on the side of the plate.
- Occasion: Suited for a vegetarian dinner where you want something substantial yet gourmet. This combination is flavorful and filling, making it a great choice for a special occasion or a treat-yourself dinner.
🍽️ Variations
Spicy Kick Scalloped Potatoes
- Twist: Add a bit of heat by incorporating thinly sliced jalapeños between the potato layers and a dash of cayenne pepper in the cream sauce.
- Occasion: Ideal for those who enjoy a spicy touch in their meals. It’s a great variation to serve when you’re in the mood for something with a bit of a kick.
Herbed Scalloped Potatoes
- Twist: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley into the cream sauce for a fragrant and herby flavor.
- Occasion: Perfect for a more aromatic dish, suitable when you want to impress with subtle yet sophisticated flavors. It’s a great choice for a dinner party or a special occasion meal.
Creamy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
- Twist: Add minced garlic or garlic powder to the cream sauce for a rich and savory garlic flavor.
- Occasion: A fantastic option for garlic lovers, suitable for a cozy dinner where you’re craving something comforting and flavorful.
Scalloped Potatoes with Ham
- Twist: Include small diced ham between the layers for added protein and a salty, savory note.
- Occasion: This version is great for a more hearty meal, especially suitable for a filling lunch or dinner.
Vegan Scalloped Potatoes
- Twist: Substitute the half and half with a plant-based cream or coconut milk, and use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Occasion: Perfect for those following a vegan diet or for catering to dairy-free dietary needs, without sacrificing the creamy, comforting essence of the dish.
Scalloped Potatoes with a Crunch
- Twist: Add a breadcrumb and grated Parmesan mixture on top before baking for an extra crispy, golden crust.
- Occasion: Ideal when you crave a variety of textures in your meal. The crunchy topping adds an appealing contrast to the soft, creamy potatoes underneath.
❄️ Storage
Refrigeration
- Duration: Your scalloped potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they are completely cool before storing.
- Container: Place them in an airtight container or cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Considerations: If the potatoes were baked in a cream sauce, be aware that the sauce may separate slightly upon reheating. This is normal and does not affect the taste.
Freezing
- Duration: For longer storage, scalloped potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Preparation for Freezing: To freeze, let the potatoes cool completely, then wrap the dish tightly with aluminum foil or transfer the portions to freezer-safe containers.
- Considerations: When freezing, remember that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing. Cream-based sauces tend to separate or become grainy when frozen and then reheated.
Thawing and Reheating
- Thawing: Thaw the scalloped potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before you plan to reheat them.
- Reheating: To reheat, remove them from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to bring them to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the potatoes with foil to prevent them from drying out and bake until heated through, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave Option: For a quicker option, you can also reheat individual servings in the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power, checking every minute until thoroughly warm.
Final Consideration
- Safety: Always check the dish for any signs of spoilage before consuming, especially if it has been stored for a longer period. If you notice any off smells or discoloration, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard the potatoes.
🤔 FAQs
Can I Make This Recipe in a Microwave?
What Should I Do with Leftover Ingredients?
How Do I Ensure the Potatoes Cook Evenly?
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
📔 Recipe Card:
Quick & Flavorful Single-Serving Scalloped Potatoes
Equipment
Ingredients
- 9 oz Potatoes (3 potatoes)
- ½ cup Cream Half and Half (15%)
- ⅛ teaspoon Nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon Cheese Parmesan
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and peel potatoes. Note: Do not rinse after peeling to retain starch for creaminess.
- Slice potatoes thinly.
- In a baking dish, layer potatoes, seasoning each layer with salt and nutmeg.9 oz Potatoes, ⅛ teaspoon Nutmeg, salt
- Pour cream evenly over the top.½ cup Cream
- Sprinkle a layer of grated cheese on top.1 tablespoon Cheese
- Cover dish with wet, crumpled parchment paper. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove parchment paper and bake for another 5-10 minutes until crust is golden and crunchy.
- Serve hot as a main with salad or as a side dish.
Notes
- Cheese Variations: While Parmesan is recommended for its nutty and salty flavor, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like Gouda, Cheddar, or Swiss for different flavor profiles.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce or topping the dish with a sprinkle of paprika before baking for a smoky flavor.
- Herb Infusion: For an aromatic twist, infuse your cream sauce with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Just remember to remove the herbs before layering the sauce with the potatoes.
- Seasoning Adjustment: Depending on your taste preferences and dietary needs, adjust the salt and pepper quantities. Start with a little and add more as needed after tasting.
- Cream Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk a teaspoon of flour into the cream before adding it to the potatoes. This will help thicken the sauce as it bakes.
- Garnish Options: Before serving, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives for a fresh, colorful touch.
Nutrition
Your Turn
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