Introduction
This comforting dish takes the classic scalloped potatoes up a notch by infusing them with a blend of aromatic herbs and slow-cooking them to perfection. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas and warm your soul.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 kg potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
200 g cheddar cheese, grated
100 g mozzarella cheese, grated
500 ml heavy cream
100 ml chicken or vegetable broth
60 g unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
10 g fresh thyme, chopped
10 g fresh rosemary, chopped
5 g salt
5 g black pepper
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 7 hours
Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. Start by preparing your crockpot with a light coating of butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then add the fresh thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Heat until the mixture is well combined but not boiling.
4. Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the crockpot. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes and sprinkle half of each cheese.
5. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheeses to create layers.
6. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until potatoes are tender and the cheeses have melded into a rich sauce.
7. If desired, you can remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the top to brown slightly.
8. Once done, let the potatoes sit for 10 minutes with the crockpot turned off, to allow the sauce to thicken before serving.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare Your Crockpot
Start by preparing your crockpot. Lightly coat the crockpot interior with unsalted butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and facilitate easy serving.
Sauté the Garlic
In a medium saucepan, melt 60 grams of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it brown, as it may turn bitter.
Combine the Cream and Broth
Stir in 500 milliliters of heavy cream along with 100 milliliters of chicken or vegetable broth. Add in 10 grams of chopped fresh thyme, 10 grams of chopped fresh rosemary, 5 grams of salt, and 5 grams of black pepper. Heat the mixture until all ingredients are well combined, but do not let it boil.
Layer the Potatoes
Begin layering the dish by placing half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared crockpot. This layering will enhance the flavor and texture throughout the dish.
Add the Cream Mixture and Cheese
Pour half of the creamy herb-infused mixture over the first layer of potatoes, ensuring all pieces are moistened. Then, sprinkle half of the grated cheddar cheese (100 grams) and mozzarella cheese (50 grams) over the top.
Repeat the Layers
Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, adding the rest of the cream mixture, and finishing with the remaining cheeses to create a second layer. Make sure the cheeses are distributed evenly for an optimal melt.
Cook in the Crockpot
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and the cheeses have melded into a luscious, creamy sauce.
Optional Browning
If you desire a slightly golden top, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This step will allow the top layer of cheese to brown slightly, adding a delightful texture.
Let it Rest
Once cooking is complete, turn off the crockpot and let the scalloped potatoes sit for about 10 minutes with the lid on. This rest period helps the sauce thicken before you serve it.
Notes
Adjusting Creaminess
If you prefer a creamier dish, you can add more heavy cream or reduce the amount of potatoes slightly. This will yield a richer consistency.
Herb Variations
Feel free to substitute or add herbs according to your preference. Herbs like parsley or sage can enhance the flavor profile.
Cheese Choices
Experimenting with different cheese varieties can introduce new flavors. Gouda, Gruyère, or even a spicy pepper jack can be used for a twist.
Storage Instructions
Leftover scalloped potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Make Ahead Option
For a meal prep option, you can assemble the dish the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Cooking scalloped potatoes in a crockpot allows for even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly tender potatoes infused with rich flavors from the cream and herbs.
Layering Ingredients
Layering the sliced potatoes, cream mixture, and cheeses helps to create a balanced dish where flavors meld beautifully, and each bite is a delicious combination of textures.
Infusing Flavors
Sautéing the garlic and herbs in melted butter before combining them with the cream enhances the aromatic properties and adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
Controlling Moisture
Using a mix of cream and broth helps maintain the right balance of moisture, ensuring the potatoes are creamy and not overly watery.
Finishing Touches
Removing the lid during the final stage of cooking promotes slight browning and enhances the texture of the top layer, creating an inviting crust.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute other cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for different flavors and textures, but the melting qualities of cheddar and mozzarella work best.
What type of potatoes should I use?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes as they hold their shape well while becoming tender during slow cooking.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers in the crockpot the night before and store it in the fridge. Just adjust the cooking time if starting from cold.
Is it possible to make this dish lighter?
You can use a lighter cream or milk alternative; however, keep in mind that the texture and richness may differ.
What can I serve with scalloped potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes pair well with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad, making them a versatile side dish for any meal.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes with Herb Infusion presents a delightful twist on a classic recipe, combining creamy textures and aromatic herbs to create a warm, satisfying dish. The slow cooking process ensures that the potatoes absorb all the flavors, resulting in a comforting meal that is perfect for gatherings or chilly evenings. Serve it as a side dish or as the main attraction, and you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends.
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