- **Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Carrots Main Dish Ingredients:**
- Medium-sized Yukon Gold Potatoes (6)
- Fresh Carrots (1 pound, peeled and sliced)
- Creamy Sliced Cheese (8 ounces, grated cheddar or a blend of cheeses)
- Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons)
- Milk (2 cups)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black Pepper (a few grinds from a grinder)
- Optional: Fresh Thyme Leaves (for garnish and added flavor)
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Steps
### Perfectly Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Carrots - A Luscious Main Dish Recipe
#### Introduction
Looking for a comforting, creamy, and delicious main dish that will impress your guests? Look no further than this classic cheese scalloped potatoes and carrots recipe! This dish is not only hearty and flavorful but also perfect for holidays or cozy weeknight dinners. Follow these detailed steps to create an amazing meal that's sure to become a family favorite.
#### Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) baby potatoes, peeled and halved
- 1 lb (450g) carrots, peeled and sliced thin
- 1 cup (about 8oz/237ml) heavy cream
- 2 cups (300g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (65g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Veggies:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse the potatoes and carrots thoroughly, then peel and prepare them according to the recipe instructions.
2. **Cook Vegetables:**
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil with a pinch of salt.
- Add the halved baby potatoes and cook until they are just tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
- In another pan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. **Prepare Creamy Mixture:**
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to ensure there are no clumps of cheese.
4. **Layer Vegetables:**
- Preheat your oven.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Place half of the potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, then cover them with sliced carrots.
- Pour half of the creamy cheese mixture over the vegetables.
5. **Assemble and Bake:**
- Repeat layering with the remaining potatoes, carrots, and cheese mixture.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown.
6. **Garnish and Serve:**
- Let it cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth!
- Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley for a garnish.
- Serve hot as part of your main course, paired with grilled chicken or roasted meats if desired.
#### Tips for Success
- For an extra flavor boost, roast the garlic cloves whole in the oven before mincing them to add more depth.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, use a handheld blender to blend some of the vegetables into the creamy mixture.
- To save time, consider using frozen baby potatoes and carrots, but increase cooking times as directed on their packaging.
#### Conclusion
With these simple yet effective steps, you can create a delicious cheese scalloped potatoes and carrots main dish that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also ensures everyone at the table gets a hearty serving of vegetables and cheese. Enjoy cooking and happy dining!