Scalloped Carrots With Cheese
Creamy scalloped carrots layered with cheese and topped with crunchy crumbs, offering a comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook carrots until tender, drain and set aside.
- Cook chopped onion in butter in a saucepan for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add milk to the saucepan, do not boil.
- Stir in flour, salt, and dry mustard until thick and smooth.
- Add pepper and celery salt to the sauce.
- Pour the sauce into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Arrange cooked carrots in the casserole.
- Place slices of cheese over the carrots.
- Pour the sauce over the carrots and cheese.
- Top with cracker crumbs and dot with butter.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using sharp Cheddar cheese instead of American cheese. If you're short on time, pre-packaged shredded cheese can be a convenient substitute. You can also add some cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms to the mixture for extra depth. Make sure to adjust the seasoning as needed, especially if you're adding salty ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Scalloped carrots pair beautifully with roasted meats such as chicken or pork, making it a perfect side dish for a family dinner. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to balance the meal. For a heartier option, it also complements dishes like Buffet Onion Casserole for a comforting spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave portions for a quicker option, but be mindful not to overheat, as it may affect the texture of the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scalloped Carrots With Cheese contains roughly 387 calories, with 11g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (314% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value), and potassium (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 830mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for varied flavors. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to achieve a creamy consistency. Mixing cheeses can also enhance the taste profile of your scalloped carrots.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To lighten the dish, you can use low-fat milk or a non-dairy milk alternative. Additionally, consider reducing the amount of butter or using olive oil for sautéing the onions. You can also add more vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower for added nutrients, making it align with vegetarian recipes.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).