Scalloped Carrots
Creamy and comforting, scalloped carrots features tender diced carrots baked in a rich cheese sauce infused with lemon and celery salt. Perfect as a side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it combines sweet carrots with savory cheese and a hint of tangy lemon flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, over medium heat, cook and stir butter and flour until smooth and bubbly, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk and lemon juice, stirring constantly.
- Cook and stir until thickened.
- Add celery salt, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Remove from heat and combine with cooked carrots and shredded cheese.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden on top, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of butter and olive oil. You can substitute half of the cheddar cheese with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste. If you want to reduce calories, use low-fat milk and a smaller quantity of cheese. This dish can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking, making it a perfect choice for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Scalloped carrots pair beautifully with roasted meats like Country Steak or can serve as a hearty side to vegetarian recipes. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color. This dish also complements a light salad, such as Mandarin Orange-Pineapple Salad, for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover scalloped carrots should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scalloped Carrots contains roughly 2408 calories, with 6g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 256g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1097mg per serving (48% 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 frozen carrots instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture. They may also require a shorter cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make scalloped carrots gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Ensure that the cheese and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).