This recipe delivers creamy, dreamy scalloped potatoes in a fraction of the time of traditional oven baking—all thanks to the magic of your microwave! Forget hours of oven time; this method gets you perfectly cooked, flavorful potatoes in under 30 minutes. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right potatoes to achieving that perfect, golden-brown top. Let's dive into the surprisingly simple world of microwave scalloped potatoes.
Why Microwave Scalloped Potatoes?
Let's face it, traditional scalloped potatoes require a significant time commitment. Prepping, baking, and waiting for that perfect golden-brown top can easily take over an hour. Microwave scalloped potatoes offer a game-changing solution: speed and convenience. This method is perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave that comforting dish without the lengthy wait.
Benefits of Microwave Scalloped Potatoes:
- Speed: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Convenience: Minimal cleanup and less oven time.
- Energy Efficiency: Uses less energy than a conventional oven.
- Consistent Results: The microwave provides even cooking, leading to consistently tender potatoes.
Ingredients for Microwave Scalloped Potatoes
This recipe uses readily available ingredients. You can easily adjust seasonings to your preference.
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick) – Using a mandoline slicer ensures even thickness for even cooking.
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk is recommended for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional, but adds warmth)
Step-by-Step Microwave Scalloped Potato Recipe
This recipe is designed for a 1500-watt microwave. Adjust cooking times based on your microwave's power.
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Prep the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes. Aim for uniform thickness (about 1/8 inch) for even cooking. Soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water for 15 minutes helps remove excess starch and prevents them from becoming gummy. Drain well before proceeding.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg (if using).
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Layer the Potatoes: Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bowl, slightly overlapping. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cream mixture.
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Microwave: Cover the bowl with microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 10 minutes.
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Stir and Continue Cooking: Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it will be hot!). Gently stir the potatoes and cream mixture. Cover and microwave for another 5-7 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Check for doneness – potatoes should be fork-tender.
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Broil (Optional): For a crispier top, transfer the potatoes to a broiler-safe dish and broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. This step is optional but adds a lovely golden-brown finish.
Tips for Perfect Microwave Scalloped Potatoes
- Potato Thickness: Uniformly thin slices are crucial for even cooking. A mandoline slicer is highly recommended.
- Microwave Power: Adjust cooking times based on your microwave's wattage. Lower-wattage microwaves may require longer cooking times.
- Doneness: Test for doneness by inserting a fork into the center of a potato. They should be easily pierced and tender.
- Creaminess: Using whole milk and heavy cream enhances the richness and creaminess of the dish.
- Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with other seasonings, such as onion powder, paprika, or thyme.
Variations on Microwave Scalloped Potatoes
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Add extra cheese, such as cheddar or Gruyère, for a richer, cheesier flavor.
- Herb-infused Scalloped Potatoes: Incorporate fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for an aromatic twist.
- Bacon Scalloped Potatoes: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory flavor.
Troubleshooting Microwave Scalloped Potatoes
- Potatoes are not tender: If the potatoes are not tender after the initial cooking time, microwave in 1-minute intervals until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Too much liquid: If there is excessive liquid remaining, microwave uncovered for 1-2 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
- Uneven cooking: If the potatoes are cooking unevenly, rearrange them in the bowl and continue microwaving.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Speedy Scalloped Potatoes!
Microwave scalloped potatoes offer a delicious and convenient alternative to traditional oven-baked versions. With minimal effort and a short cooking time, you can enjoy this comforting classic anytime you crave it. So ditch the long baking times and embrace the speed and ease of microwave cooking! Remember to adjust cooking times based on your microwave's power and always prioritize safety when handling hot dishes. Happy cooking!