Scalloped Potatoes, No. 2 Recipe

Scalloped potatoes have been a beloved comfort food for generations. With their creamy texture and savory flavor, they are perfect for cozy family dinners or holiday gatherings. This classic dish originated in Europe and made its way to America with European immigrants. The recipe has since passed down through the generations, with variations and additions along the way.

To make a delicious batch of Scalloped Potatoes, No.2, you'll need the following ingredients:

- 2 cups of cold potatoes, cut into cubes
- 2 cups of cream sauce
- Additional seasoning to taste (such as salt, pepper, or herbs)
- 1 cup of bread crumbs
- Small pieces of butter

Let's jump right into the recipe:

1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the potatoes bake evenly and develop a golden crust.

2. Next, take the 2 cups of cold potatoes and cut them into cubes. The size of the cubes can vary depending on personal preference, but aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed potatoes with the 2 cups of cream sauce. The cream sauce will provide a rich and velvety texture to the dish. You can use a basic cream sauce recipe, or you can experiment with different flavors such as garlic or cheese.

4. At this point, taste the mixture and season with additional seasoning if necessary. Salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor of the dish. Remember that the potatoes will absorb some of the seasoning during baking, so it's better to slightly over-season.

5. Pour the potato and cream sauce mixture into a baking dish. Use a dish that is large enough to hold the mixture and allows for some space at the top as the potatoes will expand during baking.

6. Once the mixture is in the baking dish, evenly spread 1 cup of bread crumbs over the top. The bread crumbs will create a delicious crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.

7. Dot the surface of the bread crumbs with small pieces of butter. This will add a rich and indulgent flavor to the dish and help the bread crumbs brown during baking.

8. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the dish as it bakes, and adjust the cooking time if necessary. The top should be golden brown, and the potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork.

Once the Scalloped Potatoes, No.2 are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will ensure that the flavors meld together and the dish is easier to handle.

Interesting Fun Facts:
- Scalloped potatoes are sometimes referred to as "gratin potatoes" in French cuisine. The term "gratin" refers to the crispy crust that forms during baking.
- While the classic recipe calls for potatoes, cream, and bread crumbs, there are numerous variations that incorporate additional ingredients like cheese, ham, bacon, or vegetables.
- Scalloped potatoes are often considered a side dish, but they can also be enjoyed as a main course by adding protein such as grilled chicken, beef, or fish.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
- Au Gratin Potatoes: Similar to scalloped potatoes, au gratin potatoes are made with thinly sliced potatoes layered with cheese and cream. The addition of cheese gives them a delightful and gooey texture.
- Potato Dauphinoise: A French dish similar to scalloped potatoes but without the bread crumbs. It features thinly sliced potatoes layered with garlic-infused cream and baked until creamy and golden.
- Hasselback Potatoes: These unique potatoes are sliced into thin layers and baked until crispy. The slices create a beautiful accordion-like appearance, and they can be seasoned with various herbs and spices.

Try making Scalloped Potatoes, No.2 for your next family meal or gathering. It's a timeless recipe that never fails to please and brings comfort and warmth to any table.