Green Chile Cheese Scalloped Potatoes

November 7, 2024

Green Chile Cheese Scalloped Potatoes are a creamy and flavorful side dish that combines the heartiness of potatoes with the rich, tangy taste of cheese and the mild heat of green chiles. This dish features thinly sliced potatoes layered with slices of cheese and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top, all baked to perfection.

It’s an ideal accompaniment to a variety of main courses, from steak to chicken, and adds a delightful kick to your meal. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, these scalloped potatoes are sure to impress!

Ingredients:
4-5 medium potatoes (skins on), thinly sliced

8 oz cheese slices (any kind you prefer, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack)

1/2 cup milk

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite variety)

1/2 cup chopped green chiles (canned or roasted)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: additional butter or oil for greasing the baking dish

Instructions:
Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare Potatoes:

Wash and thinly slice the potatoes, leaving the skins on for extra texture and flavor.

Layer Potatoes:

Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or oil, if desired. Begin layering the sliced potatoes in the dish, slightly overlapping each slice.

Add Cheese:

Place slices of cheese between some of the potato layers. You can randomly place them to ensure cheese is spread throughout the dish.

Add Milk and Seasonings:

Pour 1/2 cup milk evenly over the layered potatoes. Sprinkle the chopped green chiles and shredded cheese over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve:

Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a delicious side with your favorite main dishes, like filet mignon or stuffed mushrooms.

Notes:
Potato Choice: Use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture. They hold up well during baking and become tender without turning mushy.

Cheese Options: While the recipe uses standard cheese slices and shredded cheese, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even pepper jack for added spice.

Green Chile: Adjust the amount of chopped green chile based on your preferred level of heat. For a milder flavor, use fewer chiles or mild varieties.

Layering: Ensure even layering of potatoes and cheese slices for consistent flavor throughout the dish.

Milk and Cream: Adding a bit of cream or half-and-half in addition to the milk can enhance the creaminess of the dish.

Baking Time: Depending on the thickness of your potato slices, baking times may vary. Ensure the potatoes are fork-tender before removing from the oven.

Resting Time: Let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and make serving easier.

Make-Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just increase the baking time slightly if cooking from cold.

Variations: Consider adding cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions for extra flavor and texture.

Serving: This dish pairs well with a variety of main courses and can be served as a hearty side at family gatherings or holiday meals.

Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella.

Mixing cheeses can also add depth of flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance.

Assemble it up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate.

Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze this dish.

Assemble and bake as directed, then let it cool completely.

Cover tightly and freeze.

To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes or until heated through.

What kind of potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes?
Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes due to their starchy texture, which helps them hold their shape and absorb flavors well.

How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add more chopped green chiles or use spicy cheese like pepper jack.

You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Can I use a dairy-free substitute for the cheese and milk?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk alternatives such as almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk.

How do I ensure the potatoes are fully cooked?
Thinly slice the potatoes to ensure they cook evenly.

If you’re unsure if they’re fully cooked, you can test by inserting a fork; it should slide through easily.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Sauté them beforehand to ensure they cook properly.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I use pre-sliced cheese?
Yes, pre-sliced cheese can be used.

Simply layer the slices between the potato layers as you would with shredded cheese.

November 7, 2024