Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food! Layers of tender potatoes are baked with creamy cheese sauce until golden and bubbly. It’s a warm hug in a dish!
You can never go wrong with cheese and potatoes, right? I love making this treat for gatherings—it’s always a hit! Serve it alongside your favorite meat, and watch it disappear!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for scalloped dishes since they have a starchy texture that gets creamy when baked. If you’re in a pinch, Yukon gold potatoes can work as a substitute—they’re buttery and just as tasty!
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a wonderful flavor. I recommend using a mix of sharp and mild cheddar for depth. If you want to switch it up, try Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste profile!
Butter and flour: This duo forms a roux to thicken the cheese sauce. If you’re avoiding gluten, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead. You can also swap butter for olive oil, but the flavor will change slightly.
Whole milk and heavy cream: These create a rich, creamy sauce. For a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk or almond milk, but note the sauce won’t be as silky. Adding a tablespoon of cornstarch can help thicken it up if needed!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Even Cooking of Potatoes?
To achieve perfectly cooked potatoes, slicing them evenly is key. Aim for about 1/8-inch thickness to ensure they cook through evenly. Using a mandoline slicer can help you achieve uniform slices.
- Pat the potato slices dry after rinsing them to reduce excess moisture—this helps the sauce cling better.
- Layer the potatoes and cheese sauce carefully; proper layering ensures that each layer cooks perfectly and absorbs flavor.
- Cover the dish with foil initially to trap steam and cook the potatoes faster, then remove it to allow the top to brown nicely.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 large russet potatoes (about 3 lbs), peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, along with 1 hour of baking time, making the total time around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Just a few simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is essential, as it ensures even cooking for your scalloped potatoes.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Peel the russet potatoes and thinly slice them using either a mandoline or a sharp knife, aiming for about 1/8-inch thickness. To keep the slices from browning, place them in a bowl of cold water, then drain and pat dry before using.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour, cooking it for about 1-2 minutes while whisking constantly to create a roux without browning it. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, and continue mixing until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil (about 5 minutes). Lower the heat and add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Set it aside.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or any similar ovenproof dish. Begin arranging a single layer of potato slices evenly across the bottom of the dish. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes to cover them. Repeat this layering with more potatoes and cheese sauce until all the potatoes are used, finishing with a layer of cheese sauce on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top layer!
5. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the top is beautifully golden brown and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once baked, let the scalloped potatoes rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set nicely. For a vibrant touch, garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley.
7. Serve:
Now it’s time to dig in! Scoop portions onto plates and enjoy your deliciously creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes. They make a perfect side dish with roasted meats or any main course!
This recipe brings together rich, creamy potato layers topped with a wonderfully browned cheesy crust, making it a beloved dish at any gathering. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, you can mix it up with cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of Parmesan for added flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the taste and texture slightly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free scalloped potatoes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch in your cheese sauce. Ensure the cheese you use is also labeled gluten-free.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be going into the oven cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
