Critique: Idahoan Scalloped Potaotes

I’m not sure just where I picked up this box of Scalloped Potatoes. The company that makes them; Idahoan Foods out of Lewisville Idaho, was new to me. Their web page is pretty cool and I was surprised at the wide number of potato orientated products they offer. And, of course, them taters of theirs are all from Idaho; a state which boasts an almost perfect growing climate for spuds.

The package directions include making this side dish either in the oven or on the stovetop. One would assume that if one wants the golden top on this dish, one would use the oven method. I’d made scalloped potatoes from scratch before, and was curious as to how much better this commercial offering might be. (I did a You Tube Video on making them and am still convinced that that is the way to go nutritionally). However, if I’m pressed for time, these boxed products ain’t too shabby.

Preparation is pretty much a snap. You set the oven to 450F and then grab a small 1 ½ quart baking dish. Into it you whisk 1 ½ cups of boiling water, ¾ cup of milk, the dried potatoes, cheese packet, and about 1 ½ tablespoons of margarine or butter. This gets baked, uncovered for about 25 minutes. How easy is that when you’re talking true comfort food?

A great meal that came in at just over 200 calories!

As you can see, the result is rather appetizing. A small ½ cup serving will set you back about a hundred calories, but what’s that among friends? I served this side as part of a regular meal that consisted of BBQ chicken, green beans and steamed carrots!

 I’d score this one a solid 8 on a scale of 10. It was easy to throw together, bake and serve.

Nutritional information on weights and calories in this pictured meal:
Chicken 78 grams 105 calories
Green beans 70 grams 20 calories
Scalloped potatoes 85 grams 73 calories
Carrots 35 grams 23 calories