Instant Pot Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Instant Pot Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are flavorful with thyme, garlic, and cheese.
Instant Pot Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are flavorful with thyme, garlic, and cheese.
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 cup half and half
- 4 medium potatoes (sliced thin (i like gold potatoes, and i leave the skin on))
- 2 tsp dehydrated onions ((or 1/2 of a thinly sliced fres or 1/4 tsp onion powder))
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves ((or 1/2 tsp dried))
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated, divided in half)
- 1 cup monterey jack cheese* (shredded, divided in half)
- 1/3 cup sharp cheddar cheese* (shredded, divided in half)
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- Carbohydrate 34.526580003648 g
- Cholesterol 38.0160000330803 mg
- Fat 12.0464370103218 g
- Fiber 3.84037007827759 g
- Protein 7.3748390036473 g
- Saturated Fat 7.43555300640851 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (270g)
- Sodium 88.3222000822563 mg
- Sugar 30.6862099253704 g
- Trans Fat 0.660231000542164 g
- Calories 270 calories
Step-by-step
- Put a layer of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of a 7" x 3" oven-safe dish (or a size close to that).
- Sprinkle on a pinch each of the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme leaves.
- Add another layer of potatoes.
- Repeat step 2 (layering on the spices).
- Sprinkle on half of the parmesan cheese.
- Add another layer of potatoes.
- Repeat step 2 again.
- Sprinkle on half of the shredded Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheeses (not the parmesan).
- Add another layer of potatoes.
- Repeat step 2 with the remaining spices, and all of the 1/4 tsp nutmeg.
- Gently pour over the half and half (if you can't see the liquid just peeking through the potatoes, add just a little more. You don't want it too wet or covering the top layer, but you want it to be creamy!).
- Top with remaining Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheeses (if you are not intending to broil and crisp up the top after pressure cooking, add the remaining parmesan cheese as well. Otherwise, reserve it for the end).
- Add 1 1/2 cups of water to the inner liner of the Instant Pot.
- Cover the dish with foil, or lid, and set dish on a trivet with handles, and lower it into the pot.
- Choose the Manual (or Pressure Cook) setting on the pressure cooker and use the + or - button to choose 38 minutes (45 for thicker slices). Make sure High Pressure is also selected, if you have the option.
- Put the lid on the Instant Pot and close it, setting the steam release knob to the Sealing position.
- When cooking cycle ends, do a Quick Release of the steam and open the lid after the pin drops.
- Very carefully peel off the foil or remove lid from pan. The steam will be super hot, so be careful! Test for doneness, using a fork. The fork should slide into the potatoes easily. If not, cover them back up and set for a few more minutes.
- When done, use silicone mitts, or pot holders to grasp the handles of the trivet and carefully lift it out of the pot and onto a countertop or other stable surface.
- Turn on broiler to 375 degrees (F). and place the oven rack about 6 inches from element. Place dish of scalloped potatoes on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top of the potatoes. Add a little more if you like it crisper.
- When broiler is hot, place baking sheet with dish under the broiler for about 5 minutes, or until desired browning is reached. Just watch it to be sure it doesn't get too browned.
- Serve hot!
Instant Pot Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: A Busy Mom's Dream
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, delicious, and preferably something the whole family will enjoy. That’s where my Instant Pot Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes come in. This recipe is a lifesaver, transforming a classic comfort food into a weeknight wonder. Forget hours of oven time; this recipe delivers creamy, cheesy perfection in under an hour, freeing up my evenings for homework help, bedtime stories, and maybe, just maybe, a well-deserved glass of wine.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It's a straightforward process, yet the result is unbelievably flavorful. The Instant Pot does most of the work, allowing the potatoes to become tender and infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic, thyme, and a generous helping of cheese. The broiling step at the end adds a delightful crispy top, elevating the dish from comforting to truly decadent. My kids practically inhale it, and let’s be honest, I’m right there with them.
I’ve experimented with different types of potatoes, and I’ve found that gold potatoes with the skin on work best. They hold their shape beautifully and provide a nice rustic touch. Feel free to experiment though; any potato will do. The key is to slice them thinly for even cooking. I also like adding a touch of cooked ham for extra flavor and protein; it adds a lovely savory element that balances the richness of the cheese perfectly. This is optional, of course, but highly recommended!
What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. If I'm feeling adventurous, I'll add some roasted vegetables, like broccoli or carrots, to make it a more complete meal. On other nights, when I'm short on time, I skip the broiling step and just enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness straight from the Instant Pot. It's incredibly versatile, which is essential for a busy mom like me.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a symbol of efficient cooking and family togetherness. The aroma alone is enough to bring everyone running to the table. It's a dish that embodies the warmth and comfort of home, created without sacrificing precious time. So, if you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and family-friendly meal, give my Instant Pot Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes a try. You won’t regret it. It's a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Beyond the ease and deliciousness, this recipe is a perfect example of how you can create memorable meals despite a hectic schedule. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there's always time to enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal shared with loved ones. The joy of family time is often the most important ingredient in any recipe, and this one certainly delivers on that front, too. It's a perfect dish to share on a busy weeknight, or even a special occasion, allowing you to savour quality time with your family without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen.
So grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience a new level of weeknight ease and flavor. Your family will thank you, and you'll be able to relax and enjoy the evening knowing you’ve crafted a delicious and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort. This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of efficient home cooking, a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into a culinary masterpiece.
Pro Tip: For extra creamy potatoes, use a combination of half-and-half and heavy cream. Adjust the amount of liquid based on your preferences and the thickness of your potato slices.
Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. Add different cheeses, such as Gruyere or Fontina. Experiment with different herbs and spices, or incorporate other vegetables, such as mushrooms or asparagus. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe is a winner in our household, and I'm sure it will become a favorite in yours as well. It's a true testament to the power of efficient cooking without compromising taste. Happy cooking!
