Introduction to Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes
Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of creamy potatoes and the subtle sweetness of apples. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The combination of rich cheddar cheese and savory Parmesan enhances the overall flavor, while the nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic touch.
This recipe is especially great for young professionals or homemade-food lovers who may be pressed for time but still want to serve a delicious and impressive meal. Imagine the satisfaction of pulling a bubbling, golden dish from the oven, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that draws in family and friends. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients makes it accessible for anyone looking to whip up a comforting side dish without spending all day in the kitchen.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or a casual weekend gathering, Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes will surely be the star of the table. Its creamy texture and harmonious blend of flavors make it a standout side that pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Try this recipe to create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the warm, inviting nature of home-cooked meals.
Key Ingredients
Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes is a delightful dish that highlights the essential ingredients crucial for achieving its creamy texture and unique flavor. Each component plays a vital role, ensuring that the dish is both satisfying and memorable.
Potatoes (4 cups):
The foundation of this dish, thinly sliced potatoes provide a creamy and hearty base that absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients. Choose a starchy variety like Russets for the best results.
Apples (1 cup):
Sliced apples introduce a subtle sweetness and a hint of tartness, balancing the richness of the cream and cheese. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith for a delightful contrast to the savory elements.
Heavy Cream (2 cups):
This ingredient is key to achieving the dish’s luxurious, creamy texture. The richness of heavy cream envelops the potatoes and apples, creating a decadent mouthfeel that’s hard to resist.
Cheddar Cheese (1 cup):
Shredded cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the creaminess of the dish perfectly. It creates a deliciously gooey texture on top once baked.
Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup):
Grated Parmesan cheese contributes a nutty flavor and enhances the overall taste profile. Its saltiness helps balance the sweetness from the apples, making each bite a harmonious experience.
Butter (2 tbsp):
Butter adds richness and a touch of flavor, helping to create that crispy, golden top when baked. It also aids in keeping the dish moist and delicious.
Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Nutmeg):
A blend of salt, black pepper, and nutmeg elevates the dish by enhancing the natural flavors of the potatoes and apples. Nutmeg, in particular, brings warmth and depth to the overall taste.
By understanding these key ingredients, you’ll be able to appreciate the magic of Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes and perhaps even make your own variations!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes is a dish that you’ll fall in love with at first bite. The unique combination of creamy potatoes and sweet apples creates a delightful contrast that is both comforting and exciting. This recipe is perfect for young professionals and homemade-food lovers who appreciate flavorful meals without the fuss.
Imagine gathering around the table with friends and family, sharing stories while this warm dish steams in the center. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that brings people together. Plus, the preparation is straightforward, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to hearty vegetarian dishes, making it a go-to side for any occasion. The creamy goodness and hint of sweetness make it a standout dish that will keep your guests coming back for more. Give it a try, and you’ll see why Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes is destined to become a family favorite!
Variations
Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes is a versatile dish that invites creativity in the kitchen. While the original recipe is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to suit your taste or the occasion.
Herb-Infused Version
For a burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. These aromatic herbs can elevate the dish by bringing in earthy notes that complement the sweetness of the apples and the creaminess of the potatoes. Simply sprinkle a tablespoon of chopped herbs between the layers for a fresh twist.
Cheese Lovers’ Delight
If you’re a cheese enthusiast, why not amp up the cheesy goodness? Mix in a blend of your favorite cheeses, such as Gruyère or Gouda, alongside the cheddar and Parmesan. This will create a richer flavor profile and a delectably gooey texture that’s hard to resist.
Sweet and Savory
For a unique take, try adding caramelized onions or sautéed leeks to the layers. Their sweetness balances the dish and adds depth, making it a delightful side for any main course.
Seasonal Variations
In the fall, consider incorporating butternut squash or pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful color to your dish, making it even more appealing on the table.
These variations allow you to customize Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes to suit your preferences while keeping the essence of the original recipe intact.
Cooking Tips and Notes
Cooking Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes can be a straightforward process, but a few tips can enhance your results and make your experience in the kitchen even more enjoyable.
Layering for Success
When assembling your dish, take care to layer the potatoes and apples evenly. This ensures each bite has a balanced flavor of creamy potatoes and sweet apples. A gentle press down on the layers can help them cook evenly.
Creamy Consistency
To achieve the perfect creamy consistency, make sure to warm the heavy cream before pouring it over the layered ingredients. This helps to meld the flavors together and allows the cream to absorb into the potatoes and apples more effectively.
Baking Tips
Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps to trap steam, ensuring that the potatoes cook through. For the last 15 minutes, remove the foil to allow the top to become beautifully golden and crispy, enhancing the visual appeal of your dish.
Resting Time
After removing the dish from the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall presentation.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to mastering Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes and impressing everyone at your next gathering!
Serving Suggestions
Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, making it an ideal choice for any meal. Its creamy texture and hint of sweetness complement roasted meats, such as chicken or pork, beautifully, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Pairing with Proteins
For a hearty meal, serve this scalloped potato dish alongside grilled or roasted meats. The richness of the potatoes enhances the savory flavors of dishes like herb-roasted chicken or honey-glazed ham. The sweetness from the apples also balances out the saltiness of bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, making it a delightful combination.
Vegetarian Options
If you’re looking for a vegetarian feast, consider pairing Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the dish’s creaminess. Additionally, serving it with sautéed greens or roasted Brussels sprouts adds a nutritional boost and vibrant color to your plate.
Perfect for Gatherings
This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. Its comforting nature appeals to both young and old, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied. You can even prepare it ahead of time and reheat it before serving, making it a convenient option for busy hosts.
Incorporate these serving suggestions, and you will elevate your dining experience with Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes!
Time Breakdown
Preparing Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes is efficient and straightforward, making it a perfect choice for busy individuals. Here’s a quick breakdown of the time involved in creating this delicious dish.
Preparation
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
This includes washing, peeling, and slicing the potatoes and apples, as well as gathering all ingredients.
Cooking/Baking
Cooking Time: 1 hour
After layering the ingredients, the dish requires 45 minutes of covered baking and an additional 15 minutes uncovered to achieve a golden top.
Total
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
With just over an hour of total time, you can impress your family or guests with a rich and creamy side dish.
For added efficiency, consider prepping the ingredients a day in advance and storing them in the refrigerator to save time on the day of cooking.
Nutritional Facts
Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes is not only a delicious dish but also provides a satisfying nutritional profile. Each serving, which is about 1 cup, contains approximately 450 calories, making it a hearty addition to any meal.
In terms of macronutrients, this dish has 30 grams of total fat, including 18 grams of saturated fat, which contributes to its rich creamy texture. It also contains 38 grams of carbohydrates, with 3 grams of dietary fiber and 5 grams of sugar, primarily from the apples. Additionally, you’ll find about 8 grams of protein, making it a balanced side dish that complements various main courses.
For those monitoring their dietary intake, each serving also includes 90 milligrams of cholesterol and 800 milligrams of sodium. While it’s a comforting indulgence, enjoying it in moderation can make for a delightful addition to your meal rotation.
FAQ based on People Also Ask
Can I make Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
For Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes, tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal because they provide a nice contrast to the richness of the cream and cheese. However, you can also use sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can enhance the dish by adding vegetables like sliced onions or even spinach. Just ensure that any additional vegetables are sliced thinly to cook evenly alongside the potatoes and apples.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients. It’s a perfect side dish for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Conclusion
Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes is a dish that beautifully combines the comforting flavors of creamy potatoes and the subtle sweetness of apples, making it perfect for any family gathering. This dish not only delights the palate but also brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table. As you prepare it, you’ll find that it’s an easy recipe to follow, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a hearty side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Whether it’s for a holiday celebration or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for a diverse range of dietary preferences.
As you savor each bite of this creamy delight, remember to share the recipe with friends and family, or even better, cook it together! Enjoy the process and the delicious results that come from making Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes.
Print
Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes
A delicious and creamy scalloped potato dish with a hint of apple, perfect for any family gathering.
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes
- 1 cup sliced apples
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes and apples.
- In a saucepan, heat the cream with salt, pepper, and nutmeg until warm.
- Pour the cream over the potatoes and apples, then sprinkle with cheddar and Parmesan.
- Dot the top with butter.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider including herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving for better slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 90mg