Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Looking for a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting? This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal, a weekend gathering, or a cozy family dinner, these potatoes will be the star of the table. With layers of tender russet potatoes and onions, all smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce, this dish is a warm, comforting hug on a plate.

What Are Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes are traditionally thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce, often seasoned with butter and herbs. But when you add cheese to the mix, you elevate the flavor and richness, turning a classic into something irresistible. Cheesy scalloped potatoes feature a velvety cheese sauce that blends perfectly with the tender potato slices, creating a savory side dish that’s hard to beat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: You probably have most of the ingredients—potatoes, onions, butter, and cheese—in your kitchen already.
• Rich, creamy texture: The combination of melted cheese and tender potatoes makes this dish wonderfully indulgent.
• Family-friendly: Adults and kids alike will love the comforting flavors of this dish.
• Great for holidays: It’s an excellent addition to holiday meals or large gatherings, pairing well with many main dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish. Feel free to stick to the original ingredients for the most authentic flavor.

• 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (about 2 pounds): Russets are perfect due to their starchy texture, which helps the sauce thicken.
• 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Forms the base of the creamy cheese sauce.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce and helps it stick to the potatoes.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 cups whole milk, room temperature: Provides creaminess for the sauce.
• 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded: The star of the dish, cheddar gives that rich, cheesy flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust seasoning before serving for perfect flavor balance.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Layer the potatoes and onions

Arrange the sliced potatoes and onions in the casserole dish, alternating between potato and onion slices. This will ensure even distribution of flavors as the dish bakes.

Step 3: Make the cheese sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and salt, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually add in the room-temperature milk, continuing to whisk to avoid any lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Once thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt completely into the sauce. This should take about 30-60 seconds.

Step 4: Assemble and bake

Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent the top from drying out as it bakes. Bake for 85-90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 5: Optional: Broil for a crispy topping

If you prefer a crispy, golden-brown topping, switch your oven to the broil setting after the potatoes are done baking. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the top is beautifully browned.

Step 6: Season and serve

Remove the dish from the oven, uncover, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following tools:

• 8×8-inch casserole dish
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Slicing potatoes too thick or too thin: Keep your potato slices about ¼-inch thick. Too thick, and they won’t cook evenly; too thin, and they may become mushy.
• Not whisking the sauce enough: When making the cheese sauce, whisk constantly to prevent lumps. If the sauce isn’t smooth, the dish won’t have the desired creamy texture.
• Skipping the broiling step: For a professional touch, don’t miss the broil at the end to achieve that crispy golden topping.

How to Serve and Presentation Ideas

Presentation matters! After baking, consider garnishing the scalloped potatoes with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Serve directly from the casserole dish for a rustic, homestyle feel, or carefully transfer portions to individual plates for a more elegant presentation.

For pairing, cheesy scalloped potatoes work well alongside dishes like roasted chicken, beef tenderloin, or even a fresh salad. The rich, creamy potatoes complement both hearty proteins and lighter sides, making them incredibly versatile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (although they’re so delicious, it’s rare!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storage: Let the dish cool to room temperature, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the potatoes in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help retain the crispy texture on top.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Tips

• Cheese varieties: While mild cheddar is classic, you can switch it up by using sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses for added depth of flavor.
• Making it ahead: You can assemble the dish a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake it the next day. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative as they have a buttery flavor and hold their shape well during baking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use half the amount of cornstarch).

How can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative (like almond or oat milk) and use vegan butter and cheese.

How do I know when the scalloped potatoes are done?

The potatoes should be fork-tender, meaning a fork can easily pierce through the slices with little resistance.

conclusion

I hope you enjoy preparing and sharing this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe! If you loved this dish, please share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes like this.

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