Masala Scalloped Potatoes is an innovative take on the classic scalloped potatoes, blending rich flavors with a spicy kick. This dish stands out with its unique combination of creamy cheese and Indian spices, making it a perfect side for any occasion—from family gatherings to festive celebrations. Its comforting, hearty nature ensures that it will be a hit at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Profile: The blend of spices like garam masala and coriander powder adds a delightful twist that elevates traditional scalloped potatoes.
• Versatile Dish: Suitable for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this recipe fits various occasions effortlessly.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can whip up this dish without fuss.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy texture combined with bold spices makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare Masala Scalloped Potatoes in advance and simply reheat before serving.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Masala Scalloped Potatoes, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A quality baking dish ensures even cooking and browning, giving your potatoes the perfect texture.
• Medium saucepan: Essential for making the cheese sauce; helps combine ingredients smoothly without burning.
• Whisk: A handy tool for mixing sauces; prevents lumps, ensuring a creamy consistency.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing potatoes thinly for even cooking.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these flavorful Masala Scalloped Potatoes:

For the Potatoes

• 2 pounds yukon gold, sliced into 1/8 pieces
• 1/2 tbsp avocado oil

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 green chili (or serrano chili)
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder

For the Cheese Mixture

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 1/2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup for the sauce + 1 cup for the topping)
• 1/2 tsp garam masala

How to Make Masala Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your baking dish lightly with avocado oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Spicy Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
2. Add finely chopped onions, green chili, garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté until soft.
3. Stir in tomato paste along with all spices (coriander, cumin, turmeric, red chili, cardamom). Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce

In the same saucepan:
1. Add 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
2. Whisk in flour until smooth.
3. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring to a simmer until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in salt and 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pour half of the spicy sauce over them followed by half of the cheese sauce. Repeat with remaining potatoes, sauces, and top with another cup of grated cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Once out of the oven, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Enjoy your flavorful Masala Scalloped Potatoes!

How to Serve Masala Scalloped Potatoes

Masala Scalloped Potatoes is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve it hot as a main course, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley for added color and flavor.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair your scalloped potatoes with juicy grilled chicken marinated in spices to complement the masala flavors.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Serve with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.

With Fresh Green Salad

• A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the potatoes perfectly.

As Part of a Buffet Spread

• Include Masala Scalloped Potatoes in your buffet for gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy this unique twist on a classic.

How to Perfect Masala Scalloped Potatoes

Achieving the perfect Masala Scalloped Potatoes requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes, spices, and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried or stale options.
• Layer Evenly: Distribute potato slices evenly in layers, ensuring consistent cooking and flavor throughout the dish.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; overcooking can lead to mushy potatoes while undercooking may leave them crunchy.
• Experiment with Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of chili according to your heat preference; start small and add more if desired.
• Let it Rest: Allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes after baking; this helps it set and makes serving easier.
• Stay Creative with Toppings: Consider adding different cheeses or breadcrumbs on top for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Masala Scalloped Potatoes

Masala Scalloped Potatoes pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Lemon Chicken
   A zesty grilled lemon chicken complements the rich flavors of the potatoes beautifully.
2. Mint Yogurt Sauce
   This cooling sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the scalloped potatoes.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice
   The brightness of lime and freshness of cilantro in rice makes an excellent accompaniment.
4. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrition and balances out the creamy texture of the potatoes.
5. Spiced Chickpeas
   Crispy, spiced chickpeas offer protein and crunch, making them a satisfying side dish.
6. Roasted Cauliflower Steaks
   Flavorful roasted cauliflower steaks provide variety and a healthy option next to your scalloped potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Masala Scalloped Potatoes, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.

• Using the wrong potato type: Not all potatoes work well for scalloped dishes. Stick with Yukon Gold or similar varieties for the best texture and flavor.
• Overcooking the sauce: Cooking the sauce too long can lead to a thick consistency that doesn’t coat the potatoes well. Keep an eye on it to ensure a creamy blend.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping spices like garam masala and red chili powder will miss out on the dish’s unique flavor. Be generous with seasonings for maximum taste.
• Layering incorrectly: Layer your potatoes evenly and alternate with cheese and sauce. This ensures every bite is flavorful and creamy.
• Not allowing rest time: Cutting into the dish immediately after cooking can lead to a watery mess. Let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Masala Scalloped Potatoes

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Masala Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Masala Scalloped Potatoes unique?

Masala Scalloped Potatoes combine traditional scalloped potato techniques with bold Indian spices, creating a rich fusion dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

Can I make Masala Scalloped Potatoes vegan?

Yes! Substitute dairy milk with plant-based milk and use vegan butter or oil instead of regular butter.

How spicy are Masala Scalloped Potatoes?

The spice level can be adjusted based on personal preference. For milder potatoes, reduce or omit green chilies and red chili powder.

Can I add vegetables to my Masala Scalloped Potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Masala Scalloped Potatoes is a delightful twist on a beloved classic that brings warmth and spice to any meal. This versatile dish allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste preferences, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the unique flavors it offers!

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Masala Scalloped Potatoes

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Masala Scalloped Potatoes is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food, combining creamy layers of Yukon gold potatoes with bold Indian spices. This dish features a rich cheese sauce, infused with garam masala and other aromatic spices, creating a unique flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. Perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions, these spicy scalloped potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead of time and easily reheated. Serve them as a standalone dish or alongside grilled chicken and fresh salads for a complete meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, sliced into 1/8” pieces
• 1/2 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 green chili (or serrano chili)
• 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 1/2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup for the sauce + 1 cup for the topping)
• 1/2 tsp garam masala

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with avocado oil.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat; add finely chopped onions, green chili, garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté until soft.
3. Stir in tomato paste along with all spices (coriander, cumin, turmeric, red chili, cardamom). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. In the same saucepan, add 2 tablespoons of butter until melted. Whisk in flour until smooth.
5. Gradually add 2 cups of milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in salt and 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese.
6. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pour half of the spicy sauce over them followed by half of the cheese sauce. Repeat with remaining potatoes, sauces, and top with another cup of grated cheddar cheese.
7. Cover with foil and bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
8. Once out of the oven, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and vegan butter. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition.