1/2 cup prepared Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes contain about 160 Calories. If you're a potato lover, you know just how delicious a cheesy scalloped potato dish can be. However, you may be worried about the calorie content of such a dish. In this article, we'll explore the calorie count, Nutritional value, Serving Size, and suggestions to make your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes healthier.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes usually include potatoes, cheese, milk, and seasonings. Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and essential nutrients such as potassium and vitamin C. Cheese, while high in fat and Calories, also provides protein and calcium. Milk provides additional calcium, vitamin D, and protein.

By making a few adjustments, you can still enjoy this classic dish without the guilt. Let's get started!

Calories in Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

As mentioned earlier, 1/2 cup prepared Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes contain around 160 Calories. The calorie count can vary depending on the type of cheese and milk used, as well as the Serving Size. It's important to be mindful of your portion size and the other foods you consume throughout the day to maintain a healthy calorie balance. If you're trying to reduce your calorie intake, consider using reduced-fat cheese or skim milk. This can significantly decrease the calorie count without sacrificing the flavor. You can also reduce the portion sizes or serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes as a side dish rather than a main course.

Ingredients in Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

To make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, you'll need thinly sliced potatoes, cheese, milk, butter, flour, salt, pepper, and sometimes garlic or onion powder. The combination of these Ingredients creates a creamy and flavorful dish that's perfect for a family dinner or gathering. You can customize the Recipe by adding additional seasonings or ingredients such as bacon, ham, or vegetables. Experiment with different cheeses to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.

Nutritional Benefits of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Although Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are not the healthiest dish, they do provide some Nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a great source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, which can help keep you full and satisfied throughout the day. They also provide essential nutrients such as potassium and vitamin C. Cheese provides protein and calcium, while milk provides additional calcium, vitamin D, and protein. However, since the dish is high in Calories, fat, and sodium, it's best to consume it in moderation and balance it with other healthy foods.

Different Serving Sizes of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Serving Size plays a significant role in calorie intake. A 1/2 cup serving of prepared Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes contains around 160 Calories. However, if you increase the serving size, the calorie count will also increase. A full cup of prepared Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes contains around 320 calories. If you're trying to reduce your calorie intake, consider reducing your portion sizes or serving Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes as a side dish rather than a main course.

Ways to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Healthier

If you want to enjoy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes without the guilt, here are some tips to make them healthier:

• Use reduced-fat cheese or skim milk to decrease the calorie count
• Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
• Add vegetables such as spinach or broccoli to increase the nutrient content
• Bake the potatoes instead of frying them for a healthier preparation method
• Reduce the portion size and combine with other healthy foods such as a salad

Potential Side Effects of Eating Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Since Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are high in Calories, fat, and sodium, consuming them in excess can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, and other health issues. If you have existing health conditions such as diabetes or high cholesterol, it's best to consume them in moderation or avoid them altogether. Individuals who are lactose intolerant or have a milk allergy should avoid Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes or substitute milk and cheese alternatives such as almond milk or vegan cheese.

Nutritional Comparison with Regular Scalloped Potatoes

Regular scalloped potatoes have a similar ingredient list to Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, but without the cheese. A 1/2 cup serving of regular scalloped potatoes contains around 120 Calories, which is slightly lower than the calorie count of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. However, regular scalloped potatoes are also lower in protein and calcium since they don't contain cheese.

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes from Scratch

To make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes from scratch, you'll need the following Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if desired) and whisk until smooth.
4. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
5. Add half of the cheese to the saucepan and stir until melted.
6. Layer the sliced potatoes in the baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over them.
7. Top with the remaining cheese.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
9. Remove the aluminum foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown.

Tips for Storing Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

To store Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, let them cool to room temperature and then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, place them in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but this may cause the cheese to become rubbery.

Tasty Recipes using Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Here are some delicious Recipes using Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

• Cheesy Potato Casserole
• Cheesy Potato Gratin
• Ham and Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
• Cheesy Scalloped Potato and Broccoli Casserole
• Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Bacon