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Creamy Cracker Barrel Loaded Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Easy Homemade Side Dish

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A creamy, rich, and satisfying loaded scalloped potatoes dish inspired by Cracker Barrel, featuring tender potatoes, a silky cheese sauce, and crispy bacon topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh thyme, optional

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter your baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.
  2. Peel and slice the russet potatoes thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Set aside in cold water to prevent browning if prepping early.
  3. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  5. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps.
  6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme if using.
  8. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the baking dish. Pour half the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
  9. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the top layer.
  10. Bake uncovered in the oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden and bubbly.
  11. For a crispier top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  12. Let the scalloped potatoes rest for about 10 minutes before serving to thicken and make slicing easier.

Notes

For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and vegan cheese alternatives. To make vegetarian, omit bacon and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor. Let dish rest after baking for easier slicing. If sauce bubbles too vigorously during baking, tent with foil halfway through.

Nutrition

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, loaded potatoes, creamy potatoes, Cracker Barrel recipe, cheesy potatoes, bacon potatoes, comfort food, easy side dish

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/creamy-cracker-barrel-loaded-scalloped-potatoes-recipe-easy-homemade-side-dish/