Costco’s Scalloped Potatoes are Back: Delicious Recipes and Easy Instructions
Costco enthusiasts, rejoice! The creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible scalloped potatoes are back in stock. This beloved side dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or even a comforting weeknight meal. While Costco’s pre-made version is undeniably convenient, taking it to the next level with a few simple additions and tweaks can transform it into a culinary masterpiece. In this article, we’ll explore the deliciousness of Costco’s scalloped potatoes, provide detailed instructions for preparing them, and offer several recipe variations to tantalize your taste buds.
## Why Costco’s Scalloped Potatoes are So Popular
Before diving into recipes, let’s understand the appeal of Costco’s offering. The scalloped potatoes typically come pre-sliced and pre-sauced, making preparation incredibly easy. The creamy sauce, often a blend of cheese, milk, and seasonings, provides a rich and savory base. The sheer volume offered by Costco is another advantage, making it ideal for feeding a large group. However, the convenience comes with a few potential drawbacks. Some may find the flavor a bit bland on its own, and the texture can sometimes be slightly uniform. That’s where our recipe additions come into play!
## Basic Instructions for Preparing Costco’s Scalloped Potatoes
Even without any additions, Costco’s scalloped potatoes require proper preparation to achieve the best results. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container of Costco Scalloped Potatoes
**Equipment:**
* Oven
* Baking Dish (9×13 inch recommended)
* Aluminum Foil (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the center.
2. **Prepare Baking Dish:** Lightly grease your baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom.
3. **Transfer Potatoes:** Carefully transfer the scalloped potatoes from the container into the prepared baking dish. Spread them evenly.
4. **Cover (Optional):** If you want to prevent the top from browning too quickly, cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil for the first half of the baking time. This helps the potatoes cook evenly without burning.
5. **Bake:** Bake for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly and golden brown. The exact baking time will depend on your oven and the thickness of the potato slices.
6. **Check for Doneness:** To ensure the potatoes are fully cooked, insert a fork into the center. It should easily pierce through the potato slices. If they are still firm, continue baking for a few more minutes.
7. **Rest:** Once cooked, remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and prevents the potatoes from being too watery.
## Recipe Variations: Elevating Costco’s Scalloped Potatoes
Now for the fun part! Here are several recipe variations to enhance the flavor and texture of Costco’s scalloped potatoes:
### 1. Cheesy Bacon Scalloped Potatoes
Bacon and cheese are a match made in heaven, and they work wonders with scalloped potatoes.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container of Costco Scalloped Potatoes
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
* 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare baking dish as described above.
3. Transfer potatoes to the baking dish.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese and half of the crumbled bacon over the potatoes.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil (if using).
6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and bacon over the top.
7. Bake for another 15-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using) before serving.
**Why this works:** The smoky bacon adds a savory depth, while the extra cheese enhances the creamy texture and flavor. The green onions provide a fresh, vibrant finish.
### 2. Ham and Gruyere Scalloped Potatoes
This variation adds a touch of sophistication with the addition of ham and Gruyere cheese.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container of Costco Scalloped Potatoes
* 1 cup diced ham (cooked)
* 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare baking dish as described above.
3. Transfer potatoes to the baking dish.
4. Mix the diced ham into the potatoes, spreading evenly.
5. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyere cheese over the top.
6. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of ground nutmeg (if using) before serving.
**Why this works:** The salty ham complements the creamy potatoes, while the Gruyere cheese provides a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. Nutmeg adds a warm, subtle spice that elevates the dish.
### 3. Jalapeño Popper Scalloped Potatoes
For those who like a little heat, this variation is a spicy and cheesy delight.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container of Costco Scalloped Potatoes
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
* 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
* 1/4 cup bread crumbs (optional, for topping)
* 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for topping)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare baking dish as described above.
3. In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, and green onions. Mix well.
4. Transfer the potatoes to the baking dish.
5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the potatoes.
6. If using, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter in a small bowl and sprinkle over the top.
7. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
**Why this works:** The cream cheese adds an extra layer of creaminess, while the jalapeños provide a spicy kick. The cheddar cheese adds a familiar cheesy flavor. The breadcrumb topping adds a crunchy texture.
### 4. Garlic Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes
A simple yet flavorful twist, this variation enhances the savory notes of the scalloped potatoes.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container of Costco Scalloped Potatoes
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare baking dish as described above.
3. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, dried thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the potatoes to the baking dish.
5. Drizzle the garlic Parmesan mixture evenly over the potatoes.
6. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
**Why this works:** The garlic adds a pungent aroma and savory flavor, while the Parmesan cheese provides a salty and nutty taste. The olive oil helps to create a crispy topping. Thyme adds a subtle herbal note.
### 5. Mushroom and Swiss Scalloped Potatoes
Earthy mushrooms and nutty Swiss cheese create a sophisticated and comforting dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container of Costco Scalloped Potatoes
* 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
* 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare baking dish as described above.
3. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Transfer the potatoes to the baking dish.
5. Mix the cooked mushrooms into the potatoes, spreading evenly.
6. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley (if using) before serving.
**Why this works:** The earthy mushrooms complement the creamy potatoes, while the Swiss cheese provides a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. The sautéed mushrooms add a richer texture and depth of flavor.
### 6. Spinach and Artichoke Scalloped Potatoes
A creamy and flavorful twist inspired by the classic dip.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container of Costco Scalloped Potatoes
* 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
* 1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare baking dish as described above.
3. In a large bowl, combine the thawed spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the Costco Scalloped potatoes to the prepared baking dish
5. Spread the spinach and artichoke mixture evenly over the top of the potatoes.
6. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.
**Why this works:** The Spinach and Artichoke combination adds an entirely new flavor profile, delivering a satisfying taste with a creamy texture and a touch of indulgence. The Parmesan cheese complements the spinach and artichoke flavors.
### 7. Creamy Pesto Scalloped Potatoes
A vibrant and flavorful twist on a classic, infusing the potatoes with the fresh taste of pesto.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container of Costco Scalloped Potatoes
* 1/2 cup prepared pesto
* 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare your baking dish as described above.
3. In a bowl, gently mix the pesto with the heavy cream (if using) until well combined. This will help thin out the pesto and make it easier to spread.
4. Transfer the Costco Scalloped Potatoes to your prepared baking dish.
5. Evenly spread the pesto mixture over the top of the potatoes.
6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pesto-covered potatoes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that pesto can be salty, so taste before adding extra salt.
8. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Let cool slightly before serving.
**Why this works:** The pesto adds a bright, herbaceous flavor and a beautiful green hue to the dish. The Parmesan cheese complements the pesto, adding a salty, nutty note. The optional heavy cream makes the sauce even creamier.
### 8. Mediterranean Scalloped Potatoes
Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with this vibrant and flavorful dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container of Costco Scalloped Potatoes
* 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
* 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* Olive oil for drizzling
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare your baking dish as described above.
3. Transfer the Costco Scalloped Potatoes to your prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, oregano, and minced garlic evenly over the potatoes.
5. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be mindful that feta and olives are salty, so taste before adding extra salt.
7. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.
**Why this works:** The feta cheese adds a salty, tangy flavor, while the sun-dried tomatoes offer a sweet and chewy texture. Kalamata olives provide a briny, savory note, and oregano adds a fresh, herbal aroma. Garlic ties all the flavors together.
## Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking can result in dry and rubbery potatoes. Check for doneness regularly during the last 15 minutes of baking.
* **Use a Mandoline (Optional):** If you want perfectly uniform potato slices, use a mandoline. However, Costco’s pre-sliced potatoes make this unnecessary.
* **Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the sauce before baking and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or other spices depending on your preferences.
* **Let it Rest:** Allowing the scalloped potatoes to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the sauce thicken and prevents them from being too watery.
* **Customize:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations. The possibilities are endless!
## Serving Suggestions
Costco’s scalloped potatoes, especially when elevated with these recipe variations, make a fantastic side dish for a variety of meals. They pair well with:
* Roasted chicken or turkey
* Grilled steak or pork chops
* Baked ham
* Fish or seafood
* Vegetarian main courses like lentil loaf or stuffed bell peppers
They are also a welcome addition to holiday dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings.
## Storage and Reheating
**Storage:** Leftover scalloped potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
**Reheating:** To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scalloped potatoes in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the texture may be slightly different.
## Conclusion
Costco’s scalloped potatoes are a convenient and delicious base for creating a memorable side dish. By adding a few simple ingredients and following these easy instructions, you can transform them into a culinary delight that will impress your family and friends. So, next time you’re at Costco, grab a container of their scalloped potatoes and get ready to unleash your inner chef! Enjoy these variations, and feel free to invent your own! The possibilities are as endless as your imagination.