Healthier Cheesy Scalloped Yukon Gold Potatoes
Indulge in a lighter version of a classic comfort dish with our Healthier Cheesy Scalloped Yukon Gold Potatoes. This recipe beautifully balances the creamy elegance of traditional scalloped potatoes with reduced fat ingredients, ensuring that you can enjoy a rich, cheesy flavor without the guilt. We use tender Yukon gold potatoes, combined with a savory onion and garlic base, for a depth of flavor. The addition of low-fat milk and a touch of chicken broth creates a creamy layer that envelops the potatoes, while sharp cheddar and Parmigiano-Reggiano provide an irresistible cheesy topping. Enhanced with crispy panko breadcrumbs, this dish is perfect as a side for any family gathering, holiday meal, or simply a comforting weeknight dinner. With simple instructions and minimal preparation time, you’ll have a deliciously satisfying meal on the table in no time!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Yukon Gold Potatoes
2 1/2 lbs (peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick)
1% Low-Fat Milk
1 1/2 cups (divided)
Butter
1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
Onion
1 large (chopped fine)
Garlic
1 clove (minced)
Low Sodium Chicken Broth
1 cup
Cornstarch
1 tablespoon
Flour
1 tablespoon
Salt
1 teaspoon
Pepper
1/2 teaspoon
Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
Parmesan Cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
Panko Breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2
Lightly spray an 8-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
3
Coarsely chop 15 slices of potato and microwave them for 2 minutes or until tender. In a small bowl, mash the potatoes with 3 tablespoons of the low-fat milk and set aside.
4
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
5
In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining low-fat milk, chicken broth, mashed potatoes, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper until smooth.
6
Pour this mixture into the onion and garlic in the saucepan. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, and cook until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
7
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
8
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, followed by half of the cheese sauce. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
9
Top with panko breadcrumbs for added texture.
10
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet to catch any spills. Bake for 30 minutes.
11
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden.
12
Allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Healthier Cheesy Scalloped Yukon Gold Potatoes recipe?
It is a lighter version of the classic comfort dish that uses Yukon Gold potatoes, reduced fat milk, and a combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses to provide a rich flavor with less fat.
What oven temperature is required for this recipe?
The oven should be preheated to 425°F (220°C).
How should I prepare the baking dish?
Lightly spray an 8-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray before adding the ingredients.
Why are some potato slices microwaved separately?
15 slices of potato are microwaved and mashed with milk to create a thick, creamy base for the cheese sauce without using heavy cream.
How long do I microwave the potato slices for the mash?
Microwave the coarsely chopped slices for 2 minutes or until they are tender.
What type of milk is used in this healthier version?
This recipe uses 1% low-fat milk to reduce the overall fat content.
How do I prepare the onion and garlic?
Chop one large onion fine and sauté it in butter for 4-5 minutes, then add one clove of minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
What thickeners are used in the cheese sauce?
The sauce is thickened using a combination of mashed potatoes, one tablespoon of cornstarch, and one tablespoon of flour.
What liquids are used for the sauce?
The sauce uses 1 1/2 cups of 1% low-fat milk and 1 cup of low sodium chicken broth.
How long should the sauce simmer?
Simmer the mixture while stirring frequently for about 3-4 minutes until it has thickened.
What types of cheese are included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
How do I layer the scalloped potatoes?
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish, cover with half the cheese sauce, then repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
What is used for the crunchy topping?
The dish is topped with 2 tablespoons of panko breadcrumbs for added texture.
Do I need to cover the dish while baking?
Yes, cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes of baking.
Why should I place the baking dish on a baking sheet?
Placing it on a baking sheet helps catch any spills or drips that might occur as the sauce bubbles.
What is the total baking time?
The total baking time is 60 minutes: 30 minutes covered and 30 minutes uncovered.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The potatoes are done when they are tender and the panko topping is golden brown.
How long should the dish cool before serving?
Allow the dish to cool and set for 10 minutes before serving.
How many pounds of potatoes are needed?
You will need 2 1/2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes.
How thin should the potatoes be sliced?
The potatoes should be peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick.
What kind of broth can I use?
The recipe specifies low sodium chicken broth, but vegetable broth can be used as a substitute.
Is there any butter in this recipe?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of butter is used to sauté the onion and garlic.
How much salt and pepper should I add?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
Can I use regular cheddar instead of extra-sharp?
You can, but extra-sharp cheddar provides a stronger flavor which allows you to use less cheese while maintaining a rich taste.
What makes Yukon Gold potatoes a good choice for this dish?
Yukon Gold potatoes have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture that works perfectly for scalloped potato recipes.
Is this dish suitable for a holiday dinner?
Yes, it is an excellent side dish for family gatherings, holidays, or comforting weeknight meals.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 13 total ingredients in this recipe.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, you would need to substitute the flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
When should I remove the foil during baking?
Remove the foil after the first 30 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown.
Does the recipe use minced garlic?
Yes, the recipe requires 1 clove of minced garlic.