Okay, let’s dive into a family favorite that always brings smiles to our table: Cajun Scalloped Potatoes! I remember the first time I made this. My youngest was going through a picky phase and I was desperate for a dinnertime win. I stumbled upon a version of this recipe online and thought, “Why not add a little kick?” It was a hit! My kids loved the creaminess, and I loved the subtle spice. This recipe is pure comfort in a dish. As busy moms, we all crave those simple, satisfying meals. Let’s get started on this creamy, dreamy comfort food adventure together!
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Here is a list of ingredients you will need for the recipe. Don’t worry this list is simple because busy moms need comfort without complexity!
- 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (Yukon Golds are my go-to for extra creaminess. You can find these at your regular grocery store!)
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced (Onions add a sweetness that complements the spice. If you are short on time, use pre-chopped onions.)
- 4 tablespoons butter (Butter adds richness to the dish. Budget friendly hack: Use a butter flavored olive oil.)
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour (This helps thicken the sauce for that classic scalloped potato texture.)
- 3 cups milk (I use whole milk for the creamiest results, but 2% works too!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (This is the secret to ultimate comfort. My family gets extra comfort when I add a little extra!)
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (Adjust to your family’s spice preference. I like to buy a big container of this!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (Garlic powder adds a savory depth that is irresistible.)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (To balance the flavors.)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (Freshly ground is best for that extra zing.)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (Sharp cheddar is my favorite, but any cheese that melts well works. You could also use Monterey Jack.)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (For garnish – adds a pop of color and freshness.)
Trust me, this list is simple because busy moms need comfort without complexity! If you don’t have fresh parsley, no worries – I often skip it and the Cajun Scalloped Potatoes is still amazing!
Let’s Make it Happen!
Alright, let’s get cooking! I promise, this Cajun Scalloped Potatoes recipe is easier than you think.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In my busy kitchen, this usually takes me about 5 minutes. Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch while you wait!
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. This is how we’re going to make our roux, which will thicken our creamy sauce!
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. It should smell amazing by now! If you get a lump or two, don’t worry, just keep whisking.
- Add the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Arrange a layer of potato slices in the prepared baking dish, followed by a layer of onion slices. Pour about one-third of the sauce over the potatoes and onions. Repeat layers twice more, ending with the sauce.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. This step helps the potatoes cook through evenly.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are tender. Your Cajun Scalloped Potatoes should be golden brown and bubbly.
- Let the Cajun Scalloped Potatoes stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly.
Here’s where I used to struggle with my Cajun Scalloped Potatoes – I would sometimes rush the baking time. Learn from my experience, give it the full time to bake so the potatoes are nice and tender! While your Cajun Scalloped Potatoes is cooking, take a moment to appreciate creating comfort for your family!
How We Love to Eat This!
This Cajun Scalloped Potatoes is so versatile! My family loves it as a main dish or a side.
The kids devour this when I serve it with simple grilled chicken or some crispy fried chicken tenders. It’s also amazing with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad. For picky eaters, I sometimes add a side of ketchup for dipping. Don’t judge – it works!
This is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need comfort food fast! I also love making it for potlucks or casual get-togethers. Everyone always raves about how creamy and flavorful it is. I have even served it for Thanksgiving as a spin on the traditional Scalloped potatoes!
If we have leftovers (which is rare!), I love to reheat them for lunch the next day. They’re also great added to omelets or breakfast burritos. Yum!
For a seasonal twist, try adding some cooked andouille sausage to the Cajun Scalloped Potatoes in the fall or winter. The extra spice adds a cozy warmth.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
I know you probably have some questions, so I’ve compiled a list of some of the most common ones I get asked about this recipe.
- Is this Cajun Scalloped Potatoes really filling enough for growing kids? Absolutely! The potatoes, cheese, and creamy sauce make it a hearty and satisfying meal. Plus, you can always add a protein like chicken or sausage to make it even more filling.
- What if my picky eater won’t try this Cajun Scalloped Potatoes? Start with a small portion and encourage them to take just one bite. Sometimes, all it takes is one try to win them over. You can also reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning to make it less spicy.
- Can I meal prep this Cajun Scalloped Potatoes for busy weeks ahead? Yes! You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
- Can I freeze this Cajun Scalloped Potatoes? I don’t recommend freezing it, as the texture of the potatoes and sauce may change. However, it’s best served fresh!
- I don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes. Can I use another type? Yes! Russet potatoes or red potatoes will also work. Just make sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly.
- What kind of cheese is best for this recipe? I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a blend of cheeses would be delicious too. For cheesy cajun potatoes au gratin, check out this recipe ~ Cooks with Cocktails.
- Can I make this Cajun Scalloped Potatoes vegetarian? Definitely! Just omit any meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Another great potato side dish you should check out is rosemary garlic mashed potatoes.
Final Thoughts:
I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your home, just like it has in mine. This Cajun Scalloped Potatoes recipe truly supports my family’s comfort food goals because it’s easy to make, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser.
My Cajun Scalloped Potatoes Comfort Hacks:
- Prep Ahead: Slice the potatoes and onions ahead of time to save time during the week.
- Spice Control: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your family’s taste.
- Cheese Please: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses!
Here are a few family-tested variations:
- Spicy Scalloped Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Cheesy Bacon Cajun Scalloped Potatoes: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the layers for a smoky, savory flavor.
- Cajun Chicken Scalloped Potatoes: Mix in shredded cooked chicken for a heartier meal.
My husband prefers the bacon version, while my kids love the classic cheesy version. For more inspiration on getting the perfect scalloped potato texture, check out Phil’s scalloped/au gratin potatoes recipe.
Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to make this. Make it your own way and enjoy the process of creating something delicious for your family! I hope your family has many dinnertime wins with this recipe. You could also find inspiration at Salt & Lavender for more Cajun Scalloped Potatoes recipes.
I know you can do it! Go ahead and try this satisfying Cajun Scalloped Potatoes recipe. You’ve got this, Momma!
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Cajun Scalloped Potatoes
Spice up your side dish game with these Cajun Scalloped Potatoes! Thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce infused with Cajun flavors for a comforting and flavorful dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, creating a roux.
- Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add half of the cheddar cheese and half of the Monterey Jack cheese to the sauce. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Repeat layers with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Top with the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions.
Notes
For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak.