Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Scalloped Potato Cheddar and Chive Pie! Imagine layers of creamy, tender potatoes melted with sharp cheddar cheese and fragrant chives, creating a dish so irresistible that it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds. This isn't just a side dish – it's a showstopping comfort food that promises to elevate your meal from mundane to magnificent in just over an hour.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chopped chives
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9-inch pie dish or casserole dish with butter, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- Wash and carefully slice potatoes using a mandoline or sharp knife into thin, uniform slices approximately 1/8 inch thick. Pat potato slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Create alternating layers in the buttered dish: Start with a layer of potato slices, slightly overlapping. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives over the potato layer. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Continue layering potatoes, cheese, and chives, ensuring each layer is evenly distributed. Press down gently to compact the layers and create a consistent texture.
- Pour heavy cream slowly and evenly over the layered potatoes, allowing the cream to seep between the layers. The cream will help create a rich, creamy texture during baking.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil, creating a loose tent to allow steam to escape. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from oven and let the pie rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with additional fresh chives before serving. Slice and serve hot as a side dish or light main course.
Tips
- Slice Consistently: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices, which ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Remove Moisture: Always pat potato slices dry to prevent a watery result and help achieve a crispy, golden top.
- Layer Carefully: Take time to create neat, slightly overlapping layers for both visual appeal and even cooking.
- Choose the Right Cheese: Use a sharp cheddar for maximum flavor, but avoid pre-shredded cheese as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
- Don't Rush the Resting: Let the pie rest after baking to allow layers to set and make cutting easier.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of fresh thyme for extra flavor complexity.
- Storage Tip: This dish reheats beautifully – store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to maintain its crispy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 411kcal
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 85mg
