Add a dash of Irish to your Thanksgiving this year, with a dish that’s as beloved in Ireland as it is in America: cheesy scalloped potatoes. Whether you’re hosting a friendsgiving with kids of all ages or having a more intimate family gathering, this easy-to-assemble dish is sure to please palates.
INGREDIENTS
½ cup butter
1 cup onions, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 cup chicken stock
1 ½ – 2 cups whole milk
6-8, medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
fresh thyme (for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 400°. Grease a 9- x 13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Place the butter in a small saucepan and allow to melt over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté for 5 minutes. Add the garlic and continuing cooking for 2-3 minutes. Begin to create a roux by stirring in the flour, salt, and pepper until well combined. Continue to stir with a whisk while adding the stock and milk. Start with 1 ½ cups of milk and if mixture is too thick slowly add more, not exceeding 2 cups. Cook for 2 minutes, being careful not to allow it to boil. Remove from heat and set aside.
Spread a layer of sliced potatoes in the bottom of your baking dish. Cover with a layer of the roux mixture, and top with 1 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers once more in this order to fill the baking dish.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and cook an additional 30-35 minutes or until the top is a golden brown and potatoes are cooked through. If desired, top with fresh thyme.