Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes – Creamy & Delicious Recipe

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the epitome of comfort food, combining rich cheese sauce and tender potato slices into a dish that is both indulgent and satisfying. Whether served as a side dish or as the star of your meal, this creamy, cheesy creation will surely win over your family and friends. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for a hearty, flavorful dish, these cheesy scalloped potatoes are sure to delight.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ideal side dish because of their rich, creamy texture and flavor-packed layers. This dish is not only easy to make but also customizable. With simple ingredients like russet potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and milk, you can create a side that fits perfectly with any main course, from roasted meats to festive holiday dinners. The comforting blend of gooey cheese and tender potatoes ensures that every bite is indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes: The starchy texture of these potatoes makes them ideal for creamy casseroles like cheesy scalloped potatoes, ensuring a tender bite and thickened sauce.
• Yellow onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
• Unsalted butter: A crucial element for creating a smooth and rich cheese sauce.
• All-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the cheese sauce, providing that luscious creamy texture.
• Kosher salt: Balances and enhances the flavors of the dish.
• Whole milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce, creating a velvety smooth texture that coats each layer of potatoes.
• Mild cheddar cheese: Provides a rich, creamy flavor that melts beautifully, making the dish irresistibly cheesy.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning the dish to perfection.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or even a plant-based milk alternative like almond or oat milk. For a sharper flavor, swap the mild cheddar for a combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère. If you’re looking to add a bit of protein, ham works wonderfully when layered in between the potatoes and cheese sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Arrange the sliced potatoes and onions in alternating layers in the prepared baking dish. Ensure the slices are evenly spaced for consistent cooking.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and salt, whisking constantly for about one minute to create a roux.
4. Slowly add the milk to the roux, stirring continuously. Cook the mixture until it thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.
6. Pour the cheese sauce over the layered potatoes and onions. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 85-90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. For a crispy, golden top, switch your oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes.
8. Once done, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness.

Tips & Tricks

• To ensure even cooking, try slicing the potatoes with a mandoline. This helps to maintain consistent thickness, leading to a uniform texture.
• If the top starts to brown too quickly during baking, cover it with foil and continue baking until the potatoes are tender.
• Let the cheesy scalloped potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are incredibly versatile and can pair well with a variety of main dishes. Serve them alongside a herb butter roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, or a succulent roast chicken for a truly satisfying meal. For an extra twist, add some cooked bacon bits or fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme to elevate the flavors.

If you’re looking for a healthier variation, try using sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a slightly different texture and a boost of vitamins.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare these cheesy scalloped potatoes in advance, you can assemble the dish up to the point of baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it with your favorite holiday meal or enjoy it as a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Conclusion

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the perfect comfort food dish, offering a delightful combination of creamy cheese, tender potatoes, and rich flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday meal, a family dinner, or a special occasion, this dish will surely be the star of the table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with additional ingredients like ham, or even modify it for different dietary needs. With simple ingredients and easy steps, cheesy scalloped potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

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