Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes

Introduction

There’s something about the combination of tender potatoes, warm, sweet apples, and creamy, melted cheese that just feels like home. It’s comfort food in its finest form, and trust me, once you try these Roasted Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes, you’ll understand exactly what I mean. Picture this: you’ve just roasted Granny Smith apples alongside layers of thinly sliced potatoes, all drizzled with a rich, creamy sauce and topped with a bubbly golden cheese crust. As the dish bakes, the aroma fills your kitchen, and you can practically feel the warmth of the dish on a chilly evening.

This recipe is a twist on the classic scalloped potatoes, bringing in the slightly tart and slightly sweet notes of the Granny Smith apples. It’s a perfect blend of savory and sweet, with a creamy richness and a touch of warmth from the apples that will have your family asking for seconds. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy dinner at home or a special holiday feast, these Roasted Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes will definitely be the star of your table.

Personally, this dish has been a favorite in my family for years. I remember my grandma making it for Thanksgiving, and the sweet apples always surprised me as a perfect complement to the richness of the potatoes. Since then, I’ve tweaked it over the years, adding my own little twists, but the heart of the recipe has always stayed the same—comfort, warmth, and a little sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re wondering why this dish deserves a place on your dinner table, here’s why:

• Unique Flavor Combination: The Granny Smith apples bring a delightful tartness that balances perfectly with the creamy richness of the potatoes, creating a unique flavor you won’t find in your usual scalloped potatoes. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a touch of something special.
• Easy to Make: While it looks like an elegant dish, this recipe is actually simple to prepare. With minimal ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly the layers of tender potatoes and apples come together.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special holiday gathering, this dish elevates any meal. The potatoes bake into a golden, bubbling, cheesy masterpiece that will have everyone coming back for more.
• Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will fall in love with the combination of potatoes, cheese, and apples. It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles on their faces.

When you take that first bite, you’ll experience a warm, comforting texture with the slight sweetness from the apples. It’s the type of dish that wraps you in a cozy embrace, making it a perfect meal for cooler weather. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with roast meats, grilled chicken, or even a simple side salad to balance out the richness.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including prep and baking)
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Nutrition Facts: Calories per serving: 320, Fat: 18g, Carbs: 34g, Protein: 8g

Ingredients

To make these Roasted Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together perfectly to create a cozy and flavorful dish:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • Russet potatoes work best here because they’re starchy and hold up well in the oven, becoming tender and creamy as they bake.
• 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • The tartness of Granny Smith apples pairs wonderfully with the rich and creamy potatoes, balancing the flavors perfectly.
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • This is what creates that velvety, indulgent sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option, but the heavy cream gives the dish its signature richness.
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Sharp cheddar adds a bit of bite and saltiness that contrasts with the sweetness of the apples.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • For greasing the dish and creating a beautiful golden top.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Garlic adds a subtle savory note that enhances the flavor of the potatoes without overpowering the apples.
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
  • For seasoning the potatoes and apples evenly.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • For a bit of warmth and contrast to the sweetness of the apples.
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
  • Thyme brings an earthy, herby aroma that complements the apples and potatoes beautifully.
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Roasted Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes is easy, and with these clear steps, you’ll be able to create this flavorful dish with confidence. Let’s dive in!

1st Step: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will ensure that the potatoes and apples don’t stick to the sides as they bake and will help achieve that beautiful golden-brown finish on top.

2nd Step: Slice the Potatoes and Apples

Using a sharp knife or mandoline, thinly slice your russet potatoes and Granny Smith apples. Aim for slices that are about 1/8-inch thick—thin enough to cook evenly but thick enough to hold their shape.

3rd Step: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium-low heat until it starts to simmer. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in half of the salt and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, then remove from heat. This will be the base for your creamy sauce.

4th Step: Layer the Potatoes and Apples

Now comes the fun part—layering! Start by placing a single layer of sliced potatoes in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and a bit of the thyme. Then, add a layer of apple slices. Repeat the process until you’ve used all the potatoes and apples, ensuring that the layers are tightly packed together.

5th Step: Pour Over the Creamy Sauce

Once the layers are set, pour the cream mixture over the top, making sure the sauce covers the entire dish. You want to ensure the cream seeps through the layers of potatoes and apples, adding that rich, velvety texture.

6th Step: Top with Cheese and Butter

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes and apples. This will melt into the sauce, creating that golden, cheesy crust. Dot the top with small pieces of butter to help the cheese brown beautifully.

7th Step: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, and the top is golden and bubbly.

8th Step: Rest Before Serving

Allow the dish to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers settle and makes it easier to cut into neat portions.

How to Serve

Here are some great ideas for serving your Roasted Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes:

• Serve as a side to roast chicken or turkey for a classic holiday meal.
• Pair with a fresh green salad and a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Serve alongside grilled meats, like steak or pork, to add depth to your meal.
• For an extra comforting dinner, enjoy it on its own with a glass of apple cider or a cozy cup of hot tea.

Additional Tips

Here are a few tips to help you achieve the perfect Roasted Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes:

• Slice evenly: Try to slice the potatoes and apples as evenly as possible. This ensures even cooking and a uniform texture. A mandoline slicer works wonders if you have one!
• Don’t skip the resting time: After baking, allow the dish to rest before serving. It makes cutting the portions easier and allows the flavors to meld together.
• Grate your own cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly grated cheese will melt more smoothly and give you a creamier texture.
• Watch the cream: If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or milk for some of the heavy cream. Just know it won’t be quite as rich.
• Add a crispy topping: For extra crunch, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter on top before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different type of apple?
While Granny Smith apples are ideal for this recipe because of their tartness and firmness, you can use other types of apples if you prefer a different flavor profile. For example, Honeycrisp apples will add a sweeter flavor, while Fuji apples will be slightly milder. Just keep in mind that the balance between the sweetness and tartness will change depending on the apple you choose.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time! To do so, prepare the scalloped potatoes as instructed, but instead of baking them right away, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let the dish sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time, as it will take longer to cook if it’s chilled.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of this recipe. Simply swap the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream or almond milk. For the cheese, try using a dairy-free shredded cheese, which is available in many grocery stores. Be sure to also use a dairy-free butter substitute to grease the baking dish and dot the top of the potatoes.

4. Can I freeze this dish?
You can freeze Roasted Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes, but it’s best to do so before baking them. Assemble the dish as directed, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, bake it directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C), but you may need to increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes to ensure it heats through. For best results, it’s ideal to bake the dish fresh when possible.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If you prefer a crispy topping when reheating, cover the dish loosely with foil until heated and then uncover for the last few minutes of baking.

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Conclusion

There you have it—your ultimate Roasted Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special holiday gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of savory potatoes, tart apples, and creamy cheese will have your taste buds doing a happy dance.

It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, sharing stories and passing around seconds (or thirds!). And with its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe that anyone can make and enjoy. So, the next time you’re craving something comforting, give this a try. I promise it’ll be a hit with your family and friends—and you might even want to double the recipe because everyone will be asking for more!

Happy cooking, and enjoy these delicious Roasted Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes!