Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a classic, indulgent dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender potato slices. The rich, gooey cheese sauce smothers every layer of potatoes, creating the perfect comfort food. Whether for a holiday meal or a weeknight dinner, these cheesy scalloped potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Why This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is Perfect
This recipe for cheesy scalloped potatoes stands out due to its combination of simplicity and decadence. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s both hearty and satisfying, featuring tender potato slices smothered in a velvety cheese sauce. With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish comes together quickly while still delivering rich flavor. If you’re looking for a dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or can be a stand-alone comfort meal, cheesy scalloped potatoes are a fantastic choice.
Ingredients
• Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes provide a creamy texture that helps thicken the cheese sauce while remaining soft and tender after baking.
• Yellow Onion: Adds a mild, sweet flavor to balance the richness of the cheese sauce.
• Unsalted Butter: Used to make a roux for the cheese sauce, adding richness and flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the sauce, giving it that creamy, luscious consistency.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Whole Milk: Creates a smooth, rich sauce that perfectly complements the potatoes.
• Mild Cheddar Cheese: The star of the dish, creating a gooey, cheesy sauce that’s both comforting and flavorful.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning to taste.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you want to experiment or have dietary preferences, there are several great swaps you can make in this recipe:
• Cheese Options: Swap the mild cheddar for sharp cheddar or Gruyère for a stronger cheese flavor.
• Potato Varieties: Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a slightly different texture and flavor.
• Non-Dairy Options: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free milk for a dairy-free version.
• Add-Ins: For a heartier meal, try adding cubed ham or bacon between the layers of potatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Slice the russet potatoes into ¼-inch rounds using a mandoline for even slices.
- Assemble the Layers: In the prepared baking dish, layer the potato slices and onions, staggering the slices to ensure even cooking.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and salt, cooking for about one minute while whisking constantly. Gradually add the milk, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens.
- Add the Cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Pour the Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the layered potatoes, covering them evenly.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 85-90 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Optional Crispy Top: For a crispy, golden-brown topping, switch your oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes of baking.
- Serve: Season with additional salt and pepper, then serve warm.
Tips & Tricks
• Uniform Slicing: For even cooking, it’s essential to slice the potatoes to the same thickness. Using a mandoline slicer ensures uniformity.
• Extra Creaminess: If you prefer an even creamier texture, you can add a little extra cheese or milk to the sauce.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking and refrigerate it overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the potatoes, as overbaking can cause them to become mushy.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are versatile and can be paired with many dishes. They are perfect as a side dish to roasted meats such as turkey, chicken, or beef. You can also pair them with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the potatoes.
If you want to take this dish to the next level, try adding crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms. You can even create a spicy version by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
For an even simpler meal, combine cheesy scalloped potatoes with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots or Brussels sprouts.
Seasonal and Health Benefits
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a perfect dish for any season, especially during the colder months when you’re craving comfort food. The starchy potatoes provide a good source of energy, while the cheese offers a dose of calcium. While this dish is indulgent, you can make healthier versions by swapping in lower-fat cheese or reducing the amount of butter used.
Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, cheesy scalloped potatoes are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. The rich, cheesy flavor and creamy texture will make them a favorite for years to come!
Conclusion
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are an irresistible dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture of perfectly baked potatoes. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday feast or as a cozy side dish for a family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. It’s simple to prepare, customizable, and offers that comforting, rich flavor everyone craves. With its versatility and indulgent flavor, cheesy scalloped potatoes are a classic that never disappoints. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and delight your taste buds with this heavenly side dish!
FAQs
1. Can I make cheesy scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make cheesy scalloped potatoes a day ahead. Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, simply bake it, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
2. Can I substitute other cheeses in this recipe?
Absolutely! While mild cheddar is a great choice, you can swap it for other cheeses like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or even a combination of cheeses to create your own flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese melts well for the best texture.
3. How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, allow the cheesy scalloped potatoes to cool to room temperature, then cover them tightly and refrigerate. They will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
4. Can I make cheesy scalloped potatoes in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! If you prefer to use a slow cooker, simply layer the potatoes and cheese sauce in the crockpot, then cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the potatoes are tender. This is a great option for keeping your kitchen cool while preparing this delicious dish.
More Relevant Recipes
- Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta: This creamy pasta dish features tender beef and bowtie pasta in a luscious, cheesy sauce that will remind you of the richness found in cheesy scalloped potatoes. Perfect for a satisfying dinner that’s both comforting and flavorful.
- Cheesy Ham and Bacon Potato Bake: A hearty, cheesy potato bake loaded with smoky ham and crispy bacon. This recipe combines the flavors of scalloped potatoes with an added protein twist, making it a wonderful option for family dinners or holiday meals.
- Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: These fluffy, cheesy mashed potato puffs offer a fun and bite-sized twist on the classic potato dish. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, these puffs will deliver the same creamy and cheesy goodness that makes cheesy scalloped potatoes so irresistible.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a rich and creamy side dish, made with layers of thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a luscious cheese sauce. Baked to golden perfection, they make the ultimate comfort food for family dinners and holidays.
Ingredients
- 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Layer the sliced potatoes and onions in the prepared baking dish, staggering each layer of potatoes and onions.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and salt, whisking constantly for 1 minute.
- Slowly stir in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and continue to stir until melted and smooth.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the layered potatoes and onions, covering evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 85-90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- If you prefer a crispy topping, switch the oven to broil for 3-5 minutes after baking.
- Season with additional salt and pepper, then serve warm.
Notes
- Using a mandoline to slice the potatoes ensures uniform thickness and even cooking.
- Feel free to swap cheddar for other cheeses such as Gruyère or sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor.
- You can prepare the dish a day ahead of time, covering it tightly and refrigerating before baking.
- To make the dish richer, add a bit more cheese or butter to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 346
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 444mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg