Introduction

Cheesy Boursin scalloped potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food dish. With the creamy texture of the potatoes combined with the herbed richness of Boursin cheese, this recipe elevates a simple side to a new level of indulgence. Perfect for dinner parties and family gatherings, these scalloped potatoes will leave your guests raving and reaching for seconds.

The beauty of this dish lies not just in its taste but also in its simplicity. Using just a few quality ingredients, you can create a side that feels luxurious without requiring hours in the kitchen. Each layer of tender potatoes is enveloped in a luscious, cheesy sauce, delivering a taste that is comforting and satisfying.

Whether served alongside a holiday roast or a weeknight chicken dinner, cheesy Boursin scalloped potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your home. With its creamy, herby flavor profile, this dish brings warmth and happiness to any meal, making it a must-try for every home cook.

Ingredients

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for scalloped potatoes due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. They hold their shape well during cooking, providing a satisfying bite while soaking up the cheesy sauce.
8 ounces Boursin cheese
Boursin cheese is a flavorful, creamy cheese that adds a rich and herby taste to the dish. Its smooth spreadability makes it easy to blend into the sauce, ensuring even distribution of flavor throughout the layers.
1 ½ cups heavy cream
Heavy cream is essential for creating a rich, velvety sauce that binds the potatoes together. Its high fat content enhances the dish’s creaminess, providing a luxurious mouthfeel.
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
Gruyère cheese adds a nutty depth and a delightful stretch to the dish. It complements the Boursin cheese by enhancing the overall cheesiness while balancing flavors.
3 garlic cloves, minced
Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavor, creating a savory undertone. It enhances the richness of the cheese, building a complex flavor profile.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
Fresh thyme adds a bright herbal note that pairs beautifully with the creamy potatoes. It elevates the dish, making it more aromatic and flavorful.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the layers as they cook, enhancing the flavors of the cheese and potatoes while balancing the richness.
1 tablespoon olive oil
Olive oil is used to coat the baking dish and helps the potatoes cook evenly while adding a hint of flavor to the overall dish.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Heating the oven in advance ensures that the scalloped potatoes will cook evenly and thoroughly. A consistent temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect creamy and bubbly texture without undercooking or overcooking the dish.

Step 2: Prep the baking dish with olive oil.

Coating the baking dish with olive oil creates a non-stick surface that helps prevent the potatoes from sticking and ensures easier removal once baked. It also contributes to the overall flavor and caramelization of the edges of the dish.

Step 3: Slice the Yukon Gold potatoes thinly, about 1/8 inch thick.

Uniformly slicing the potatoes helps them cook evenly and ensures each piece melds beautifully with the cheese sauce. The thin slices will absorb the creamy mixture, resulting in a deliciously cohesive dish.

Step 4: In a mixing bowl, combine the Boursin cheese, heavy cream, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Mixing these ingredients creates a flavorful sauce that binds the potatoes together. The Boursin cheese will melt beautifully, resulting in a creamy and aromatic blend that will evenly coat the potato layers.

Step 5: Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, pouring half the cheese mixture over them.

This layering technique allows the creamy sauce to seep between the potato slices, ensuring that every bite is just as delicious as the next. The first layer will start to soften and absorb flavors while baking.

Step 6: Sprinkle half of the shredded Gruyère cheese over the first layer.

Adding cheese between layers increases the overall cheesiness of the dish and helps create a gooey texture. The Gruyère will become beautifully melted and bubbly, contributing to a delightful crust on top.

Step 7: Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, cheese mixture, and Gruyère cheese on top.

This second layer builds upon the first, creating a hearty, flavorful dish. The top layer of cheese is crucial as it forms a golden, crispy crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy potatoes beneath.

Step 8: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Covering the dish prevents the top from browning too quickly while allowing the potatoes to cook through. The steam trapped inside helps to soften the potatoes and meld the flavors together.

Step 9: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

Uncovering the dish allows the cheese on top to crisp up and develop a desirable golden-brown color. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture contrast between the velvety potatoes and the crunchy cheese.

Step 10: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Allowing the dish to rest helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve. This short wait time enhances the eating experience as the creamy sauce thickens slightly, allowing clean slices when serving.

Cheesy Boursin Scalloped Potatoes step photo

The Creamy Marvel of Boursin Cheese

Boursin cheese, with its smooth texture and herb-infused flavors, transforms standard scalloped potatoes into a gourmet side dish. This cream cheese-style spread blends seamlessly with the heavy cream to create a rich, flavorful sauce that coats each potato slice. Its versatility in flavor is unmatched, making it a staple in dishes where creamy richness is desired.

Layering Techniques for Perfect Potatoes

Layering is crucial in producing a well-balanced flavor and texture profile in scalloped potatoes. Each layer should consist of evenly sliced potatoes to ensure uniform cooking. The addition of cheese and cream between the layers allows for optimal flavor infusion and creates a creamy sauce that brings everything together. Proper layering maximizes the overall enjoyment of the dish.

Serving Suggestions for Elegance

Cheesy Boursin scalloped potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Serve them alongside a succulent roast chicken or glazed ham for a hearty meal, or match them with a fresh, zesty salad for a lighter option. Their decadent cheesy flavor complements many proteins and can transform an everyday meal into a fabulous dining experience.

FAQs

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?

If your cheese sauce is too thick, gradually add more heavy cream until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir it well to ensure the cream integrates smoothly.

What should I do if my scalloped potatoes are bland?

If your dish tastes bland, consider adding more seasoning, particularly salt and pepper. You can also enhance flavor by incorporating additional herbs like rosemary or swapping the Boursin for a more intensely flavored cheese.

Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use other potatoes, but Yukon Golds are recommended for their creaminess. Varieties like Russets might produce a different texture.

How can I reduce the cooking time?

To cut down on cooking time, you could parboil the potato slices for a few minutes before layering them. This will speed up the baking process.

What should I do if the top of my dish is browning too quickly?

If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil to prevent it from burning while ensuring the potatoes cook through.

Can I add cooked vegetables to the layers?

Absolutely! Incorporating cooked vegetables like spinach or sautéed mushrooms can add a delicious flavor and additional nutrients to your scalloped potatoes.

Conclusion

Cheesy Boursin scalloped potatoes are not just a side dish; they are a comforting expression of flavor and texture that rounds out any meal beautifully. With their creamy layers and rich herbed cheese, this dish invites everyone to gather around the table and enjoy indulgent flavors together.

As you serve this popular dish to family and friends, expect delighted smiles and satisfied bellies. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you've created a culinary experience that will be remembered long after the table is cleared.

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