Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
If you are craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug from the inside, you absolutely must try this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. It’s a delightful medley of tender, thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a luscious, creamy cheese sauce with just the right hint of spice. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or bringing a dish to share, this recipe serves up all the cozy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Its golden, bubbly top and rich, melty cheese layers make it a timeless classic that’s surprisingly simple to create but incredibly satisfying to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first secret to nailing the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. Each item adds a vital element: potatoes for hearty texture, butter and flour for the silky sauce base, milk for creaminess, spices to elevate the flavor, and sharp cheddar cheese for that irresistible cheesy punch and color.
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for the best tender yet sturdy slices.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Provides richness and helps create a smooth roux for the sauce.
- 3 tablespoons flour: Thickens the sauce perfectly without lumps.
- 1 1/2 cups milk: Use cold milk to prevent lumps, delivering creamy consistency.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory flavors beautifully.
- 1 dash cayenne pepper: Adds a subtle kick that balances the richness.
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese: Melts smoothly into the sauce, providing bold flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (for topping): Creates that irresistible golden, bubbly crust.
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Start the Cheese Sauce
Begin by melting the butter gently in a small saucepan. Stir in the flour and let the mixture sit for about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste, forming a roux that’s the base for your creamy sauce.
Step 2: Add Milk Gradually
Slowly whisk in the cold milk, ensuring you stir constantly to prevent any lumps. This gradual process helps the sauce thicken evenly as it gently heats.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Add salt and just a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce, then bring it to a gentle boil over low heat while stirring occasionally. The sauce should become smooth and luscious, coating the back of a spoon perfectly.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese
Once the sauce is boiling, reduce heat and stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and silky smooth. This step transforms the sauce into the heart of the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe.
Step 5: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce
In a lightly greased 1-quart casserole dish, arrange half of the thin potato slices in an even layer. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, making sure each slice gets coated for maximum flavor.
Step 6: Repeat and Top
Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce, then generously sprinkle the top with the remaining grated cheese to form a crust that will brown beautifully in the oven.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the dish in a preheated 375°F oven for 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are tender through to the center and the top is golden and bubbling, offering that perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures.
How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh pop of color and brightness that complements the rich cheese sauce. For an extra touch, a light dusting of smoked paprika can enhance the golden top with subtle warmth and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Cheesy scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables that balance the richness. They also make an excellent side alongside roasted chicken, steak, or ham, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming twist. Layer your potatoes with additional ingredients like caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for a unique spin on the classic Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe that guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the dish to cool completely before covering it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Stored in the refrigerator, your cheesy scalloped potatoes will stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making it perfect for next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish upfront or after baking by placing it in a sealed, freezer-safe dish. It will keep well for about 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a 350°F oven, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Remove the foil in the last few minutes to crisp up the top again. Alternatively, individual portions warm nicely in the microwave, but the oven method keeps that wonderful scalloped texture best.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives a classic flavor, you can experiment with Gruyere, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses to tailor the taste to your preference. Just be mindful of melting properties to keep the sauce smooth.
Is it necessary to slice the potatoes thinly?
Yes, thin slices cook faster and absorb the cheese sauce better, creating that signature creamy, tender texture in the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife works great for consistent slices.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
While dairy makes this dish so rich and satisfying, you can substitute with plant-based butter, milk alternatives like almond or oat milk, and dairy-free cheese options. Be aware texture and flavor will vary slightly but can still be delicious.
How spicy is the cayenne pepper in this recipe?
The dash of cayenne adds just a subtle warmth to balance the richness without making the dish spicy. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to reduce or omit it; the potatoes will still be flavorful.
What’s the best way to ensure the potatoes cook evenly?
Even slicing and layering the potatoes helps them cook uniformly. Covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking prevents the top from browning too soon while letting the potatoes steam and soften.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is truly a heartwarming classic that’s as comforting as a cozy evening at home. The creamy, cheesy layers, tender potatoes, and golden top make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy it brings to your dinner table—once you do, it might just become your favorite go-to side dish forever.
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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This classic Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features tender, thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, rich cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar. Perfect as a comforting side dish, it’s topped with extra cheese for a golden, bubbly finish.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 dash cayenne pepper
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Make the Roux: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and blend in the flour. Let the mixture cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.
- Add Milk Gradually: Slowly whisk in all of the cold milk to prevent lumps from forming in the sauce. Continue whisking until smooth.
- Season and Thicken Sauce: Season the mixture with salt and a dash of cayenne pepper. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce becomes smooth and comes to a gentle boil.
- Add Cheese: Once boiling, reduce the heat and stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until it fully melts and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Prepare Potato Layers: Lightly grease a 1-quart casserole dish. Spread half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the dish.
- Add Cheese Sauce: Pour half of the prepared cheese sauce over the potato layer, spreading it evenly.
- Layer Again: Repeat with the remaining sliced potatoes and remaining cheese sauce, layering evenly.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the 1/2 cup of grated cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- Use a sharp cheddar for best flavor in the cheese sauce.
- Thinly slicing potatoes ensures even cooking and creamy texture.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.
- A dash of cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Make sure to stir the sauce constantly to avoid lumps and burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
