Crispy Onion Scalloped Potatoes

Crispy Onion Scalloped Potatoes are sure to become your new favorite comfort food! Imagine layers of thinly sliced potatoes enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, topped with crispy fried onions. It’s a dish that not only warms the heart but also satisfies the cravings for something truly indulgent. Whether you’re prepping for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe adds a delightful twist to the traditional scalloped potatoes that everyone will love.

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What’s fantastic about this dish is the combination of textures and flavors. The creamy softness of the potatoes contrasts perfectly with the crunchy onions. Each bite delivers a little explosion of flavor, making it hard to resist! So, if you’re ready to elevate your side dish game, let’s dive into the details and create a truly delicious serving of Crispy Onion Scalloped Potatoes!

Why This Recipe Works

Scalloped potatoes are a quintessential comfort food, and this crispy onion twist elevates the classic dish to new heights. The blend of creamy cheese sauce, layered potatoes, and crispy fried onions creates a flavor explosion that keeps you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Onion Scalloped Potatoes

This recipe combines simplicity with the indulgence of crispy fried onion toppings. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. The creamy texture pairs seamlessly with the crunch of onions, providing a satisfying contrast that delights both the palate and the senses.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds (approximately 8-10 medium) russet potatoes, rinsed, peeled, and thinly sliced
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups whole milk, room temperature
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
• 4 cups vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (for frying)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Cheese Sauce

Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until bubbly.

Create the Roux

Whisk in the flour, kosher salt, and black pepper, cooking for 1 minute until combined.

Add the Milk

Slowly drizzle in the whole milk while whisking continually. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-8 minutes, keeping your whisk in motion.

Incorporate Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Layering the Potatoes

Arrange Potato Slices

Carefully layer the potato slices in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, fanning them out evenly.

Pour the Cheese Sauce

Spread the cheese sauce over the layered potatoes and top with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake Covered

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 50 minutes.

Creating Crispy Fried Onions

Heat the Oil

In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F over high heat.

Fry the Onions

Working in batches, add about 1 cup of sliced onions to the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, approximately 2-5 minutes.

Drain and Season

Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried onions to a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Sprinkle with salt while still hot and repeat with the remaining onions.

Final Baking

Uncover and Bake

After 50 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Add Fried Onions

Once baked, top the dish with the crispy fried onions and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Onion Scalloped Potatoes serve perfectly as a standalone dish or alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the vegetable oil reaches the correct temperature for optimal frying.
• Allow the cheese sauce to thicken properly for a rich, creamy texture.
• Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.

Variations

• Try adding crispy bacon bits for an extra savory touch.
• Incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance; just cover and refrigerate before baking.

2. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, the scalloped potatoes can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

3. What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
You can substitute with Gruyère, mozzarella, or any cheese that melts well.

4. How do I make the onions less greasy?
Be sure to drain the fried onions on paper towels immediately after frying.

5. Is there a gluten-free option for the flour?
You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour as a direct substitute for a gluten-free version.

Crispy Onion Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that transforms a traditional favorite into a new family classic. With creamy layers of potatoes, a rich cheese sauce, and the irresistible crunch of fried onions, this dish offers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for gathering around the dinner table or impressing guests at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process, embrace the flavors, and delight in the smiles around you as you share this scrumptious dish!

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