Description

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—a creamy, cheesy delight that's perfect as a side dish or even as a main course. With layers of tender potatoes smothered in a rich cheese sauce and topped with golden, bubbly goodness, this dish is irresistible. Whether you're serving it alongside a roast for a holiday dinner or enjoying it on its own, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. And the best part? It's surprisingly simple to make!

Ingredients

• For the potatoes:
• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced.
• For the cheese sauce:
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour.
• 2 cups whole milk.
• 1 teaspoon salt.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper.
• ½ teaspoon paprika.
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder.
• For the cheese layers:
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• Optional garnish:
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped.

Preparation Method

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth paste, or roux. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to ensure a lump-free sauce. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Add 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Set the sauce aside.

To assemble the dish, arrange half of the potato slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them to create a solid layer. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes, ensuring every slice is well-coated. Repeat the process with the remaining potato slices and cheese sauce.

For the topping, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese over the top layer of cheese sauce. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.

Bake the scalloped potatoes in the preheated oven for 60 minutes. After an hour, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling, and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh chives for a burst of color and flavor, if desired.

Tips and Conclusion

For a smoky twist, substitute the paprika with smoked paprika. You can also add cooked, crumbled bacon or thinly sliced ham between the potato layers for an extra indulgent dish. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a classic dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try it today and experience the magic of homemade scalloped potatoes. Explore more comforting recipes on our site and share your creations with us!