Spring Cheese Scallop
A creamy, cheesy scallop casserole layered with tender carrots and crispy French-fried onions, perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering comforting flavors with a spring twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook carrots in salted water until tender; drain.
- In a saucepan, stir flour into melted butter. Gradually add milk, cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens. Add diced American cheese and stir until melted.
- Place one-third of the cooked carrots in a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with one-third of the French-fried onions.
- Repeat layers of carrots and onions, reserving one-third of the onions for topping. Pour cheese sauce over the layered vegetables and onions.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle remaining onions over the casserole.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream or using half-and-half instead of milk. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, to enhance the flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes that feature fresh spring vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful Spring Cheese Scallop is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or a centerpiece at a vegetarian meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans for a balanced plate. For a complete spring-themed meal, pair it with Mrs. Bachman'S Dill Pickles for that extra crunch and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can affect the texture of the cheese sauce.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spring Cheese Scallop contains roughly 647 calories, with 8g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1502mg per serving (65% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or gatherings.
What type of cheese can I use besides American cheese?
You can substitute American cheese with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor. Just make sure to choose cheeses that melt well to maintain a creamy texture in the sauce.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other spring vegetables like peas, asparagus, or even broccoli for added nutrition and color. Just ensure that any added veggies are cooked until tender before layering them in the casserole.
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).