A Comfort Food Classic

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a dish of cheesy scalloped potatoes fresh out of the oven. This classic recipe is a perfect side dish for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something deliciously indulgent. Made with layers of tender, creamy potatoes and gooey cheddar cheese, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare yet absolutely irresistible.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. It’s great for anyone who loves the combination of creamy textures and savory flavors. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can recreate it perfectly every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and hearty: Perfect for cold nights or when you need a little pick-me-up.
Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even a fresh salad.
Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and bake when you’re ready.
Customizable: Easily tweak the recipe with different cheeses, herbs, or additional toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need to make these cheesy scalloped potatoes:

4-5 medium Russet potatoes: These starchy potatoes are ideal for a creamy texture.
4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
1 small onion, thinly sliced: Provides a subtle sweetness.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce.
1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning.
2 cups heavy cream: Ensures a luscious, creamy sauce.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: For that signature cheesy flavor.
2 green onions, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, colorful garnish.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

9×13-inch baking dish
Non-stick cooking spray
Large skillet or saucepan
Whisk
Knife and cutting board
Mandoline slicer (optional, for evenly sliced potatoes)
Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Potatoes

Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into ¼-inch slices. A mandoline slicer can make this step quicker and ensure even thickness, which helps the potatoes cook evenly. Arrange half of the slices in the prepared baking dish.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until they’re soft and translucent. Stir in the flour, salt, and black pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, cooking until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt completely. Keep stirring to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.

4. Layer the Potatoes and Sauce

Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes in the dish, spreading it evenly. Add the remaining potato slices on top and pour the rest of the sauce over them, ensuring even coverage.

5. Bake and Broil

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. After baking, remove the foil and set your oven to broil. Broil the dish uncovered for 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve

Let the dish cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Even slicing: Uniform potato slices ensure even cooking. Use a mandoline slicer if possible.
Cheese options: Swap cheddar for Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
Add-ins: Try layering in cooked bacon bits, ham, or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.
Thicker sauce: For a thicker sauce, use whole milk instead of heavy cream.

Recipe Variations

Herbaceous twist: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the cheese sauce for an herby flavor.
Vegan option: Replace the butter with vegan butter, heavy cream with a cashew or almond-based cream, and cheddar cheese with your favorite plant-based alternative.
Spicy kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy touch.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze baked scalloped potatoes. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Food and Drink Pairings

Main dishes: Pair with roast chicken, baked ham, or grilled steak for a hearty meal.
Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a fresh green salad.
Drinks: Complement the richness with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light beer.

FAQ

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

2. Do I need to parboil the potatoes? No, slicing the potatoes thinly ensures they cook through during baking.

3. Can I use a different type of potato? Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative for a slightly creamier texture.

4. How can I prevent the sauce from curdling? Keep the heat low when adding the cheese to the sauce, and stir constantly to ensure it melts smoothly.

Call to Action

This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! And be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and inspiration. Happy cooking!

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