Quick Microwave Scalloped Potatoes
Indulge in the classic comfort of scalloped potatoes with this quick and easy microwave version. Perfect for busy weeknights or when oven space is limited, this dish uses a rich and creamy white sauce that coats tender potato slices. Reminiscent of traditional family recipes, these scalloped potatoes skip the cheese, focusing on simple and hearty ingredients that deliver a delightful taste. Enjoy it as a standalone side or complement it with your favorite condiments for added flavor.
4-6 servings
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Margarine or Butter
3 tablespoons (melted)
Flour
2 tablespoons (none)
Milk
2 cups (none)
Salt
1 teaspoon (none)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Potatoes
4 to 6 medium (sliced)
Onion
1 small (sliced)
Instructions
1
In a large microwave-safe glass bowl, melt the margarine (or butter) by microwaving on High for about 1 minute. Ensure the bowl is large enough to prevent overflow.
2
Once melted, whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper until smooth. Gradually add the milk, stirring to combine.
3
Microwave the mixture on High for 8-10 minutes, pausing to stir after 4 minutes to ensure smoothness and avoid lumps.
4
Grease a 2-quart casserole dish. Arrange half the potatoes and onion slices as the bottom layer.
5
Pour half of the prepared sauce over the potatoes and onion. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and onion, finishing with the remaining sauce on top.
6
Cover the casserole dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
7
Microwave on High for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Adjust cooking time according to your microwave's power (around 1,200 watts is ideal).
8
Carefully remove from the microwave, let it stand for a few minutes before serving to thicken, and enjoy.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Quick Microwave Scalloped Potatoes?
It is a fast version of the classic comfort side dish made with tender potato slices and a creamy white sauce, cooked entirely in the microwave.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe provides approximately 4 to 6 servings.
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, you can use either 3 tablespoons of margarine or butter for the sauce base.
How many potatoes are required?
You will need 4 to 6 medium-sized potatoes.
What type of onion should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 small onion, sliced.
How long do I microwave the white sauce initially?
Microwave the milk and flour mixture on High for 8-10 minutes, stirring after the first 4 minutes.
What is the total microwave cooking time for the potatoes?
The assembled dish typically takes about 20 minutes on High power.
Does this recipe include cheese?
No, this specific recipe focuses on a traditional white sauce without cheese.
What size casserole dish should I use?
A 2-quart casserole dish is the recommended size for this recipe.
Why should I stir the sauce halfway through?
Stirring ensures smoothness and helps avoid lumps from forming in the flour and milk mixture.
How do I prevent the sauce bowl from overflowing?
Ensure the glass bowl used for the sauce is large enough to accommodate the liquid as it bubbles up.
What are the main seasonings used?
The dish is seasoned with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
Should the potatoes be sliced or diced?
The potatoes should be sliced for this scalloped potato recipe.
Is it necessary to vent the lid while cooking?
Yes, leave a small vent for steam to escape while microwaving the casserole to prevent pressure buildup.
What microwave wattage is best for this recipe?
The instructions are optimized for a microwave with approximately 1,200 watts of power.
Should I let the dish rest after cooking?
Yes, let it stand for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken properly.
How do I layer the ingredients in the dish?
Arrange half the potatoes and onions, pour half the sauce over them, then repeat with the remaining ingredients.
What should I do if the potatoes aren't tender after 20 minutes?
You should adjust the cooking time and microwave for a few additional minutes until they reach the desired tenderness.
Is this recipe suitable for a busy weeknight?
Yes, it is specifically designed to be a quick side dish for weeknight dinners when time or oven space is limited.
Is this recipe considered a comfort food?
Yes, it is described as a classic comfort food dish reminiscent of traditional family recipes.
Does this recipe use flour as a thickener?
Yes, 2 tablespoons of flour are used to create the roux for the creamy white sauce.
Can I add condiments to this dish?
Yes, you can complement the finished dish with your favorite condiments to enhance the flavor.
How much milk is needed for the sauce?
The recipe requires 2 cups of milk.
Is the dish covered during the final 20-minute cook?
Yes, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap with a small vent.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 ingredients: margarine/butter, flour, milk, salt, pepper, potatoes, and onion.
Can I use a larger dish if I don't have a 2-quart one?
While a 2-quart dish is ideal, you can use a slightly larger microwave-safe dish, though cooking times may vary slightly.
What happens if I skip stirring the sauce?
The sauce may become lumpy or the flour might settle and burn at the bottom.
Is the onion mandatory?
While it adds significant flavor, it can be omitted if you prefer, though it is part of the standard recipe.
Is this a family-style recipe?
Yes, it is intended to be a family-friendly side dish that mimics traditional oven-baked versions.
What is the very first step of the instructions?
The first step is to melt the margarine or butter in a large microwave-safe glass bowl on High for about 1 minute.