Two Cheese Scalloped Potato Stacks

Two Cheese Scalloped Potato Stacks are a delicious combination of sweet potatoes and russet potatoes, layered with mozzarella and Gruyere cheese, a touch of fresh rosemary, butter, and cream. Baked in a muffin tin, these individual stacks make a perfect side dish for holiday meals or any occasion. Their rich, cheesy flavor and crispy edges make them an irresistible addition to your table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ lbs. potatoes/sweet potatoes (or a mix) – approx. 1 medium-large sweet potato + 1 medium-large russet potato
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary, divided
  • ¼ cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Gruyere cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ⅓ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 clove garlic, pressed
  • Pepper to taste
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray.
  2. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness.
  3. Layer slices in the muffin tin, starting with smaller slices at the bottom. Stack until halfway full (about 4-6 slices per stack).
  4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the first potato layer, then add half the chopped rosemary.
  5. Continue layering the remaining potato slices (another 4-6 slices per stack), alternating sweet potato and russet potato.
  6. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat butter, cream, salt, garlic, and pepper for 30 seconds. Stir to combine.
  7. Pour about 1 tablespoon of the cream mixture over each potato stack.
  8. Cover the muffin tin loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil, sprinkle Gruyere cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 5-7 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  10. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes.
  11. Let the stacks rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Run a knife around each stack to help release them.
  12. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme and serve warm.

Nutrients (per serving, 1 stack)

  • Calories: 77.4 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 7.7g
  • Protein: 2.1g
  • Fat: 4.3g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.7g
  • Cholesterol: 14.7mg
  • Sodium: 82.8mg
  • Fiber: 1.1g
  • Sugar: 0.4g

These cheesy, flavorful potato stacks are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering! 🥔🧀

The Perfect Side Dish for Any Occasion

While these scalloped potato stacks are perfect for holiday dinners like Thanksgiving and Christmas, they are also a fantastic addition to everyday meals. Their compact size makes them easy to serve, ensuring that every guest enjoys the perfect portion. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or looking for a special side to accompany a weeknight meal, these stacks offer a gourmet touch without excessive preparation time.

A Blend of Flavors and Textures

One of the most appealing aspects of Two Cheese Scalloped Potato Stacks is the balance of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet potatoes and russet potatoes provides a delightful contrast between the slightly sweet, creamy texture of the sweet potato and the firmer, starchier consistency of the russet potato. Mozzarella adds a gooey, stretchy element, while Gruyere contributes a slightly nutty, sophisticated flavor. The addition of fresh rosemary infuses the dish with a subtle earthiness that enhances the overall taste.

The Role of Cheese in the Dish

Cheese plays a crucial role in the success of these potato stacks. Mozzarella is known for its smooth melting properties, creating a creamy layer that binds the potatoes together. Gruyere, on the other hand, provides a distinct depth of flavor, elevating the dish from a simple potato side to a gourmet creation. The combination of these two cheeses ensures that each bite is rich, satisfying, and full of flavor.

Cooking Method and Its Benefits

Baking these potato stacks in a muffin tin is not only a practical approach but also enhances their texture. The individual compartments help create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and creamy. Unlike a traditional scalloped potato casserole, which can sometimes turn mushy, these individual stacks retain their shape and crispness, making them visually appealing and easy to serve.

Tips for Achieving the Best Results

To ensure the best possible outcome when making Two Cheese Scalloped Potato Stacks, consider the following tips:

  • Use a mandoline slicer: This ensures uniform potato slices, which helps with even cooking and presentation.
  • Layer strategically: Alternating the potato types in each stack provides a more balanced flavor in every bite.
  • Choose high-quality cheese: Using fresh, high-quality mozzarella and Gruyere enhances the overall taste and texture.
  • Bake with foil first: Covering the stacks for the initial baking period prevents the cheese from burning while allowing the potatoes to soften.
  • Broil at the end: A quick broil at the end of the cooking process adds a golden-brown, crispy top layer that enhances both texture and presentation.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While the original combination is delicious, you can easily customize the stacks to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:

  • Try different cheeses: Parmesan, cheddar, or Swiss cheese can be used for a unique flavor profile.
  • Add bacon or pancetta: For a smoky, savory twist, sprinkle cooked bacon or pancetta between the layers.
  • Incorporate herbs and spices: Experiment with thyme, oregano, or smoked paprika for an extra layer of complexity.
  • Make it dairy-free: Substitute dairy-free cheese and use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions

These potato stacks pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes. They complement roasted meats such as beef, turkey, or chicken and work well alongside grilled seafood. For a vegetarian meal, serve them with a fresh salad and a hearty vegetable dish like roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed green beans.

Nutritional Considerations

Despite their indulgent appearance, Two Cheese Scalloped Potato Stacks offer a reasonable nutritional profile. Each stack provides a moderate amount of calories, making it easy to enjoy them as part of a balanced meal. The sweet potatoes add valuable fiber and vitamins, while the cheeses contribute protein and calcium. If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cheese and cream used without sacrificing too much flavor.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to try this recipe. It is easy to prepare, visually stunning, and packed with comforting flavors. The combination of crispy edges, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes creates a side dish that will impress your guests and elevate any meal. Plus, the ability to customize the ingredients allows you to tailor the dish to your preferences and dietary needs.

Conclusion

Two Cheese Scalloped Potato Stacks are a must-try for anyone who loves rich, cheesy, and perfectly portioned side dishes. Their combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with their crispy texture and creamy interior, makes them an exceptional addition to both casual and elegant meals. Whether served at a festive gathering or a simple dinner at home, these stacks will undoubtedly become a favorite. Give them a try, and enjoy the irresistible layers of flavor in every bite!

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