| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 60 mins – 75 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 532 | 31g | 17g | 56g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 9g | 6g | 16g | 0.78g |
As a Montana native, spending my formative years enveloped by rolling hills and abundant wildlife, I’ve been conditioned to appreciate the simple, hearty meals. One of my all-time favorite dishes is the Horseradish and Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes. Taking cues from the rustic kitchens of ranchers and the inherited wisdom of indigenous communities, this dish is a symphony of flavors and textures, melding the earthy goodness of locally-grown produce with the sharpness of aged cheddar and the punch of horseradish.
The Comforting Allure of this Dish
The Horseradish and Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes is a vegetable-based recipe, a cousin of sorts to Au Gratin, marrying crisp potatoes with the richness of a creamy sauce. The sharp tang of horseradish and the musky, royal savour of cheddar lend an exciting depth to this otherwise humble dish. It’s comfort food at its best, with each creamy, hearty bite transporting you to a bustling farmhouse kitchen. The dish is robust enough to be served as a main course, yet equally excels as an accompaniment to grilled bison burgers or country-fried steak.
Health Benefits
Beyond its undoubted deliciousness, the recipe boasts several health benefits. Potatoes are a rich source of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Olive oil is renowned for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while garlic has a range of virtues from cardiovascular support to immunity boosting. Horseradish, a somewhat underestimated superfood, adds to the nutritional punch. It aids digestion, supports a healthy immune system, and even exhibits potential anti-cancer properties. Of course, moderation is the key, as the dish does include cream and cheese. Regardless, its nutritional profile is nothing to scoff at. If you’re looking to add a dash of protein and omega-3, serving it with a side of lemon-pepper salmon makes for a balanced meal.
So, as the seasons shift and you find yourself yearning for a comforting, hearty and remarkable dish, give this Horseradish and Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes shot. And don’t forget to savor each bite, remembering the love and care that goes into preparing meals that truly feed the soul.
What You’ll Need
- 4 lbs russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons horseradish
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar, shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Meanwhile, clean and thinly slice the russet potatoes and set them aside.
Step Two
Take a large saucepan and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Step Three
Stir in 3 tablespoons of horseradish and continue to cook for a minute. Add in the 1/4 cup of flour and stir continuously until it is combined with the onion and garlic.
Step Four
Gradually add in the 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, while stirring constantly. Bring the sauce to a boil and continue to boil it until it thickens. This should take about 2 minutes.
Step Five
Turn off the heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg into the sauce and stir well.
Step Six
Add the sliced potatoes to the sauce and carefully stir until all the potatoes are coated with the sauce.
Step Seven
Pour the potato and sauce mixture into a large baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly and then sprinkle the top with 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs.
Step Eight
Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender. Then let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
