Grandma Mitchell's Scalloped Potatoes

Grandma Mitchell's scalloped potatoes are a cherished family recipe. My late father loved them. He would always smile when I served them for dinner, making them a special dish that brings back warm memories.

Servings: 6

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

• 6-8 yellow potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (use a mandoline for uniform slices)

• 7 tablespoons good quality butter, divided

• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour

• 2 cups half-and-half cream

• 2 shallots, thinly sliced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prep the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the yellow potatoes using a mandoline for even thickness.

2. Prepare the Roux: Melt four tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually add the half-and-half cream, whisking continuously to create a smooth, thickened sauce. Add the thinly sliced shallots to the cream sauce and stir to combine—season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a buttered rectangular baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Pour half of the cream and shallot mixture over the potatoes. If using, sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese over this layer. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, pour the rest of the cream mixture on top, and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese.

4. Add Butter: Dot the top of the dish with the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter, evenly spaced over the potatoes.

5. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.

6. Serve: Let the scalloped potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving.

   
   

   The creamy, buttery layers will surely make you smile, just as they did for my Papa.

Tips:

• Ensure the potatoes are sliced evenly to cook uniformly.

• You can mix in Parmesan cheese between the layers or sprinkle it on top for a richer flavour.