Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin)

Make quick and easy pressure cooker scalloped potatoes with cream and sour cream to serve with a roast or on your holiday table. These Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin) are creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, this dish brings comfort to any table. Plus, the stress-free cooking method ensures that you can focus on enjoying your meal rather than spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: The Instant Pot drastically reduces cooking time, making this a perfect option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and sour cream creates a rich, velvety sauce that perfectly coats the potatoes.
• Cheesy Goodness: With both cheddar and parmesan cheese, every bite is filled with delicious cheesy flavor that kids and adults will love.
• Versatile Side Dish: These scalloped potatoes pair well with almost any main course, from roasted meats to vegetarian dishes.
• Effortless Cleanup: Cooking in the Instant Pot means fewer pots and pans to wash afterward, saving you time in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing these Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin) a breeze. Gather everything you need before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Baking dish
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multi-functional appliance not only cooks quickly but also infuses flavors beautifully through pressure cooking.
• Baking Dish: A good baking dish is essential for broiling the scalloped potatoes to achieve that golden, bubbly cheese topping.

Ingredients

Make quick and easy pressure cooker scalloped potatoes with cream and sour cream to serve with a roast or on your holiday table.

For the Potatoes

• 3 lb Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and cut into 1/4 slices)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth

For the Sauce

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded from a block)
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 2 tsp garlic cloves (minced)

How to Make Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin)

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Butter or grease a baking dish and set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Place the sliced potatoes into the Instant Pot with 1 cup of chicken broth. Cook on Manual High for 1 minute (some models label this as Pressure Cook). After cooking, perform a Quick Release of the pressure once done.

Step 3: Preheat Your Broiler

Turn on the oven broiler while placing the oven rack about 4 inches from the heat source.

Step 4: Transfer the Potatoes

With a slotted spoon, carefully remove the cooked potatoes from the pot and place them into your greased baking dish. Leave any remaining chicken broth in the Instant Pot; most should be absorbed by now.

Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce

Turn on the Instant Pot to Saute mode. Add sea salt, ground black pepper, minced garlic, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese, heavy whipping cream, and sour cream. Stir until all ingredients are combined and melted together.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Pour the warm cheese sauce over the potatoes in the baking dish, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle any remaining cheese over the top.

Step 7: Broil Until Golden

Broil your scalloped potatoes in the oven for about 3-4 minutes or until you see bubbling around the edges and a golden crust forms on top. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin)

Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin) are versatile and can complement many dishes. Their creamy texture and cheesy flavor make them a favorite for any meal, especially during the holidays or family gatherings.

With a Roast

• Pair your scalloped potatoes with a juicy roast chicken or beef for a comforting meal.

As a Side Dish for Grilled Meats

• These potatoes work wonderfully alongside grilled steaks or pork chops, adding richness to the smoky flavors.

On a Holiday Table

• Serve these decadent potatoes as part of your holiday spread, making them the star of the buffet alongside ham or turkey.

With a Fresh Salad

• Balance the richness of scalloped potatoes with a light, crisp salad. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements them well.

For Brunch

• Enjoy scalloped potatoes as part of a hearty brunch spread, alongside quiches or frittatas.

As Leftovers

• Reheat them and serve as a comforting snack or side dish throughout the week, ensuring you enjoy their deliciousness multiple times.

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How to Perfect Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin)

Making perfect Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time.

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes: They hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture when cooked.
• Layer carefully: For even cooking, layer the potato slices evenly in the baking dish before adding cheese sauce.
• Don’t rush the broiling: Keep an eye on the broiler; it can go from perfectly golden to burnt quickly.
• Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar is classic, try mixing in Gruyere or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin)

Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin) pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned and grilled asparagus adds freshness and crunch to your meal.
2. Honey-Glazed Carrots – Sweet and savory carrots provide a delightful contrast to creamy potatoes.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts add depth and a nutty flavor that complements the richness of scalloped potatoes.
4. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad brings brightness and acidity, balancing out the heaviness of the dish.
5. Steamed Green Beans – Simple steamed green beans offer color and lightness, enhancing your plate visually and taste-wise.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn pairs beautifully with cheesy potatoes for a comforting summer meal.
7. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, making it an excellent contrast to rich scalloped potatoes.
8. Baked Salmon – The light flavor of baked salmon provides balance, making this pairing both healthy and delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin) can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring Potato Thickness: Cutting potatoes too thick can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for 1/4 slices for the best texture.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient broth can cause the potatoes to stick or burn. Always add at least 1 cup of chicken broth.
• Skimping on Cheese: Using less cheese might save calories, but it can also affect flavor. Don’t hold back on the cheddar and parmesan!
• Skipping the Broiler Step: Broiling is essential for achieving that golden top. Skip this step, and you’ll miss out on a crispy texture.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many potatoes at once can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best quality.

Freezing Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin)

• Place cooled scalloped potatoes in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm. Stir occasionally for even heating.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin):

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While Yukon Golds are preferred for their creaminess, you can experiment with Russets or red potatoes.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free and check all labels on other ingredients like cheese and sour cream.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish without baking and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving.

What is the best way to serve Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin)?

They pair wonderfully with roast meats or as a rich side dish for holiday meals.

How long does it take to cook in the Instant Pot?

Cooking time is only about 1 minute under pressure, but allow time for natural release and broiling afterward.

Final Thoughts

These Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes (au Gratin) are creamy, cheesy, and incredibly versatile. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, you can customize them by adding herbs or different cheeses. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!