Let’s be honest: few dishes scream comfort like a warm, bubbling casserole of scalloped potatoes. But when you add cream of chicken soup into the mix, you’re elevating a classic side into a rich, creamy, soul-satisfying masterpiece. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even a lazy Sunday when you want something that’s effortless yet decadent. Imagine layers of thinly sliced potatoes, enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce, baked until golden perfection, with the kind of aroma that makes everyone in the house line up at the door. That’s what we’re diving into today-a step-by-step journey into making Scalloped Potatoes with Cream of Chicken Soup that will have your taste buds singing and your guests asking for seconds.
Scalloped Potatoes With Cream Of Chicken Soup Recipe
This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a celebration of creamy, cheesy, savory goodness. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity-minimal ingredients, straightforward instructions-but the flavor is anything but simple. It’s indulgent, comforting, and versatile enough to pair with everything from roasted chicken to a juicy steak, or even stand alone as the centerpiece of a vegetarian-friendly meal when you skip the meat.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s your shopping list for creating this dish. I’ve broken it down so it’s super easy to follow:
- Potatoes: 4-5 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
- Cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces) – this adds the magic creamy texture
- Milk: 1 cup – whole milk works best for richness, but 2% is fine too
- Butter: 2 tablespoons – for that golden, slightly nutty flavor
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped or grated for subtle sweetness
- Garlic (optional): 1-2 cloves, minced, if you like a bit of punch
- Cheese: 1-2 cups shredded cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses
- Salt and pepper: To taste – don’t be shy; seasoning is key
- Paprika (optional): A light sprinkle on top for color and gentle flavor
- Fresh herbs (optional): Parsley or thyme for garnish
Cooking Instructions
Follow this step-by-step guide for absolute success:
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly.
- Prep the potatoes: Wash, peel, and thinly slice them. Thin slices are key-they cook faster and absorb more of that luscious sauce.
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Make The Creamy Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the onions (and garlic, if using) and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth.
- Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Layer The Potatoes
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place a layer of potato slices at the bottom, slightly overlapping.
- Pour a portion of the creamy sauce over the layer.
- Sprinkle a little cheese on top.
- Repeat layers until all potatoes, sauce, and cheese are used.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Let it cool slightly, sprinkle with paprika and fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding your ingredients makes a huge difference:
- Potatoes: Yukon golds are creamier, russets are fluffier. Either works, but texture changes slightly.
- Cream of chicken soup: Acts as both thickener and flavor enhancer. You can substitute with cream of mushroom or celery for variety.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds depth; mozzarella brings gooeyness. Blending cheeses can elevate flavor complexity.
- Milk and butter: Together, they create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the potatoes.
Expert Tips
Want your scalloped potatoes to come out like a pro made them?
- Slice evenly: Use a mandoline for perfectly thin slices. Thick slices can result in uneven cooking.
- Don’t over-layer: Too many layers can prevent even baking. Stick to 3-4 layers for best results.
- Cover first, uncover later: This prevents the top from burning while ensuring potatoes cook through.
- Let it rest: Allowing 5-10 minutes before serving helps the sauce thicken.
Recipe Variations
Keep your scalloped potatoes exciting by experimenting:
- Add bacon bits: Crispy bacon adds savory crunch.
- Spice it up: A dash of cayenne or smoked paprika gives a smoky kick.
- Vegetable boost: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers between layers.
- Make it cheesy deluxe: Mix Gruyère and Parmesan with cheddar for a gourmet touch.
- Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or milk instead of cream, and reduce cheese slightly.
Final Words
This is more than just a side dish-it’s a comfort food masterpiece. Each bite delivers creamy, cheesy satisfaction with the soft, tender bite of perfectly baked potatoes. Whether it’s for a holiday feast, weeknight dinner, or special occasion, this recipe is versatile, reliable, and utterly delicious.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Required For Scalloped Potatoes With Cream Of Chicken Soup?
The primary ingredients include thinly sliced potatoes, cream of chicken soup, milk, butter, onions (optional), shredded cheese (optional), salt, pepper, and any desired herbs such as thyme or parsley.
Can I Use Fresh Cream Instead Of Cream Of Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can substitute cream of chicken soup with a mixture of heavy cream and chicken broth, thickened with a small amount of flour or cornstarch to achieve a similar consistency.
Do I Need To Pre-cook The Potatoes Before Baking?
No, thinly sliced potatoes can be used raw. Baking them in the sauce allows the potatoes to cook fully while absorbing the flavors.
What Is The Best Type Of Potato For Scalloped Potatoes?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or all-purpose potatoes such as Yukon Golds work best because they become tender and absorb the sauce without turning mushy.
How Long Should Scalloped Potatoes With Cream Of Chicken Soup Be Baked?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 60 to 75 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden brown.
Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
Is It Possible To Make This Recipe Gluten-free?
Yes, ensure you use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup or make your own using chicken broth, cream, and a gluten-free thickening agent such as cornstarch.
Can I Add Other Ingredients To Enhance Flavor?
Absolutely. Common additions include cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, garlic, or a layer of shredded cheese for added richness and flavor.
What Is The Difference Between Scalloped Potatoes And Au Gratin Potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes are typically made with a creamy sauce and may or may not include cheese, whereas au gratin potatoes almost always include cheese, often forming a golden, crispy top layer.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored And Reheated?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through to preserve texture.