Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes

Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes: A Busy Woman's Dream Recipe

As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious. That’s why I’ve become obsessed with my Instant Pot. It's a lifesaver, transforming weeknight dinners from stressful chores into manageable feats. Tonight's culinary adventure? Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes. Forget the hours of oven time; this recipe delivers creamy, cheesy perfection in a fraction of the time.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal prep work – just thinly sliced potatoes and diced ham. The Instant Pot does the heavy lifting, gently steaming the potatoes until they're perfectly tender. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and cilantro, adds a delightful layer of flavor. The result? A comforting, satisfying dish that's perfect for a busy weeknight. I often serve it as a side dish alongside roast chicken or grilled salmon, but it’s hearty enough to be a main course on its own, especially when paired with a simple green salad.

What sets this recipe apart is not just the speed and ease but also the incredible flavor. The combination of creamy sauce, sharp cheddar, and mild mozzarella creates a symphony of tastes that perfectly complements the earthy potatoes and savory ham. I love the addition of fresh cilantro; its bright, herbaceous notes cut through the richness of the dish. The slight broiling under the oven's broiler adds a lovely browned top, taking the dish from simple to elegant in mere moments.

This isn't just a recipe; it's a time-saving strategy, a flavor-packed solution, and a stress-reducer all rolled into one. It's the perfect example of how delicious food doesn't have to be complicated. It’s a testament to the power of smart kitchen tools and the joy of finding simple solutions to everyday challenges. It’s a recipe I frequently turn to when I'm short on time but don't want to compromise on a delicious and satisfying meal. Give it a try – you won't be disappointed.

Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Add vegetables: Throw in some sautéed mushrooms or onions for extra flavor and texture.
• Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Gruyère, Fontina, or even a blend of your favorites would work wonderfully.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the ham and add some roasted vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes.

This Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a testament to the fact that even busy women can enjoy delicious home-cooked meals. It's a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish that's perfect for any night of the week. So, ditch the takeout menu and embrace the efficiency and deliciousness of this Instant Pot wonder!

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!

Step-by-step

• Thinly slice the potatoes and cut the ham into small squares.
• In a medium bowl whisk together the heavy cream, milk, garlic, flour, salt, black pepper and cilantro.
• Spray a round pan that can easily fit inside your pressure cooker (I used 8" round with 2" high sides) with non stick spray. Layer half of the potatoes and ham in the round pan, followed by half of the cheese. Pour half of the liquid over the top.
• Repeat with the rest of the potatoes, ham and liquid, reserving the remaining cheese for later.
• Pour 1 1/2 cups of water into the liner of your pressure cooker and place the round pan on top of your trivet. Carefully lower your pan down into the liner of your pressure cooker. Close the lid and ensure the pressure release valve is closed as well. Cook on HIGH pressure for 25 minutes, followed by a QUICK RELEASE of the pressure.
• Carefully pull the pan out by the trivet handles and place pan on a baking sheet. Top with the remaining cheese and place under the broiler in your oven for 3 minutes. (Or if you don't want to turn on your oven you can just leave the potatoes in the pressure cooker, top with cheese and cover for 5 minutes before removing from liner).
• Let the potatoes sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!