Scalloped Potatoes for Two
Since I sometimes have to cook for just me, I've been on a search for recipes that make enough for just one or two people. So when I came across this one in the TOH 2002 Annual Recipes that was sent in to them by Edith Jennings of Prarie City, Iowa, I knew I had to try it. The time for peeling the potatoes has been included in the prep time. I guess if you wanted to speed up the time it takes to prepare this recipe, you could slightly cook the potatoes in the microwave or on the stove top. The addition of the French Fried Onions was my idea. Submitted to ZAAR on October 21, 2009.
Since I sometimes have to cook for just me, I've been on a search for recipes that make enough for just one or two people. So when I came across this one in the TOH 2002 Annual Recipes that was sent in to them by Edith Jennings of Prarie City, Iowa, I knew I had to try it. The time for peeling the potatoes has been included in the prep time. I guess if you wanted to speed up the time it takes to prepare this recipe, you could slightly cook the potatoes in the microwave or on the stove top. The addition of the French Fried Onions was my idea. Submitted to ZAAR on October 21, 2009.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter or 2 tablespoons margarine
- 2 medium potatoes 2 1/2 cups peeled, washed, and thinly sliced
- 1/4 teapoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup french-fried onions (optional)
- Carbohydrate 48.8299602154051 g
- Cholesterol 29.3250000101442 mg
- Fat 9.6446230241627 g
- Fiber 4.92589802305009 g
- Protein 13.0592675035978 g
- Saturated Fat 5.78713271023039 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (358g)
- Sodium 269.435062583126 mg
- Sugar 43.904062192355 g
- Trans Fat 0.802921458727506 g
- Calories 331 calories
Step-by-step
- Place potatoes in a greased 1 quart baking dish set aside.
- In a small pan melt margarine and then add flour cook until the flour taste disappears (About 3 to 4 minutes).
- Add the milk a little at a time bring to a boil then reduce heat and stir until slightly thickened.
- Add cheese, salt, pepper and worcestershire sauce and stir until cheese is melted.
- Cool sauce slightly pour over potatoes.
- Cover potatoes and bake for 25 minutes at 375 degrees remove cover and top with french fried onion and paprika.
- Bake for another 20 minutes or until potatoes are fork tender.
- Let rest for 10 minutes so sauce will thicken.
A Cozy Meal for Two: My Scalloped Potato Adventure
As a busy professional woman, juggling a demanding career and a desire for delicious, home-cooked meals can feel like a tightrope walk. Finding recipes that are both quick and satisfying is a constant quest. That's why I'm always on the lookout for recipes that cater to smaller portions, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a relaxing weekend meal for one or two. Recently, I stumbled upon a recipe for scalloped potatoes that promised to be just that – a simple, elegant, and perfectly sized dish for a couple. The original recipe came from the TOH 2002 Annual Recipes, submitted by Edith Jennings, and it has since become a staple in my culinary repertoire. It's a testament to how a simple recipe, thoughtfully executed, can transform a simple weeknight dinner into a comforting experience.
What drew me to this recipe beyond its serving size was its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available, and the steps are straightforward, even for someone who considers themselves more of a kitchen novice than a seasoned chef. The creamy cheese sauce, perfectly balanced with herbs and spices, coats each delicate slice of potato, resulting in a dish that is both rich and comforting. I especially appreciate the suggestion of adding French-fried onions for a delightful textural crunch, a personal touch I've adopted and wholeheartedly recommend. The entire process, from peeling the potatoes to the final baking, takes under an hour, making it ideal for those evenings when time is of the essence. I've discovered that a little advance preparation goes a long way. Peeling and slicing the potatoes ahead of time reduces the cooking time considerably. Or, to shave even more time off the prep, a quick microwave or stove-top pre-cook of the potatoes is a great option.
Beyond the Recipe: A Moment of Peace
More than just a recipe, this dish has become a small ritual for me. The quiet time spent peeling and slicing potatoes, the gentle simmering of the sauce, and the warm aroma filling the kitchen – it's a welcome respite from the demands of my day. It's a chance to disconnect from work emails and unwind before enjoying a delicious meal. This simple act of preparing food allows me to connect with something more fundamental, a reminder of the joy that can be found in the simplest of things, like a perfectly cooked plate of scalloped potatoes. It’s a moment to slow down, savor the process, and appreciate the pleasure of creating something delicious for myself, a little reward for a day well spent. The quiet satisfaction of a meal prepared with care is almost as enjoyable as the meal itself. Whether I'm celebrating a successful project or simply seeking a comforting end to a long day, these scalloped potatoes are my go-to recipe for a taste of home-cooked happiness.
Adapting and Enhancing
I've experimented with this recipe over time, tweaking it slightly to fit my preferences. Sometimes, I’ll add a touch of garlic powder to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Other times, depending on what I have on hand, I'll swap the cheddar cheese for a different variety, like Gruyere or Monterey Jack. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability; it allows for creative experimentation without sacrificing the core essence of the dish. It’s a blank canvas upon which I can paint my own culinary creations. However, I’ve always kept Edith Jennings’ original spirit of the recipe at heart. The simplicity and elegance of the original have proved to be timeless.
The Perfect Companion
These scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. I often enjoy them alongside a simple salad or a roasted chicken breast. They are also a delightful accompaniment to grilled fish or even a hearty soup. Their creamy texture and delicate flavor complement a range of tastes, making them a versatile addition to any meal. This recipe has consistently brought a warm and satisfying end to my busy days. It allows me to prioritize self-care, creating a moment of calm amidst the daily hustle. It’s a dish to savor, not just for its deliciousness, but also for the peace and contentment it provides.
