The Ultimate Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe – A Comforting Potato Classic
If you’re searching for a creamy, cheesy, and comforting potato dish, this cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe is your perfect match. This article will guide you step-by-step through the process of making the best-scalloped potato recipe, which features layers of tender potatoes, creamy cheese sauce, and a golden brown finish. Whether it’s for a holiday feast, a family gathering, or an easy weeknight side dish, this recipe is worth saving.
Outline of the Article
- What Are Scalloped Potatoes?
- Scalloped Potatoes vs Au Gratin: What’s the Difference?
- How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes from Scratch
- Ingredients Needed for the Best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Scalloped Potatoes
- Which Potatoes Work Best for Scalloped Potatoes?
- Cheesy Scalloped Potato Recipe with Ham: A Hearty Twist
- Make-Ahead and Leftover Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Tips for Perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Every Time
- Frequently Asked Questions About Scalloped Potatoes
What Are Scalloped Potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food featuring sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce until tender and delicious. Unlike mashed potatoes, this dish highlights potato slices layered in a baking dish with sauce and optional toppings, such as cheese or breadcrumbs.
Why Are Scalloped Potatoes Popular?
Scalloped potatoes are a timeless side dish loved for their versatility and ease of preparation. You can serve them for casual dinners or pair them with meats for a festive meal. Plus, variations like adding ham make scalloped potatoes a satisfying main course.
Scalloped Potatoes vs Au Gratin: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to confuse scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes because both dishes involve layering potatoes in a casserole. However, there’s a key difference:
What Defines Scalloped Potatoes?
Traditional scalloped potatoes use a creamy sauce made from heavy cream or milk, often thickened with a roux. They do not necessarily include cheese, although many modern recipes (like this one) add cheddar cheese or other varieties for a cheesy twist.
What Are Potatoes Au Gratin?
Potatoes au gratin go a step further by layering cheese between the potato slices and sometimes breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping. This method delivers a dish that’s richer and cheesier compared to scalloped potatoes.
In this recipe, we combine the best of both worlds for cheesy scalloped potatoes that are tender, creamy, and packed with flavor.
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes from Scratch
Making cheesy scalloped potatoes at home is easier than you might think. You just need simple ingredients, a baking dish, and a little patience while the potatoes bake until tender.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
This recipe combines sliced potatoes, a creamy cheese sauce made from cheddar, and a hint of garlic for extra flavor. You’ll also learn tips to thicken the sauce and achieve that perfect golden brown top layer.
Ingredients Needed for the Best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
To make this comforting dish, gather the following ingredients:
Potatoes:
- 3 pounds of russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes
Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour (to make a roux)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- 1 to 2 cups diced or sliced cooked ham for a heartier version
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Scalloped Potatoes
Follow these simple steps for perfect cheesy scalloped potatoes:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash, peel, and thinly slice 3 pounds of potatoes. Using a mandoline ensures uniform slices.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter.
- Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, allowing the mixture to thicken.
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted. Season with garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Arrange half of the potato slices in the baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes.
- Repeat with the remaining potato slices and cheese sauce.
- Bake the Potatoes:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle with extra cheese, and bake for another 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set for easy serving.
Which Potatoes Work Best for Scalloped Potatoes?
Russet Potatoes vs Yukon Gold Potatoes
- Russet potatoes: Known for their starchiness, russet potatoes make the sauce creamy as they cook. They’re also easy to slice uniformly.
- Yukon Gold potatoes: These have a buttery texture that complements the cheese sauce. Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well, making them ideal for a more structured dish.
For the best results, use a mandoline to ensure thinly sliced potatoes. This guarantees even cooking and tender layers of potatoes.
Cheesy Scalloped Potato Recipe with Ham: A Hearty Twist
Want to turn your cheesy scalloped potatoes into a complete meal? Add ham!
Why Add Ham to Scalloped Potatoes?
Adding ham makes this dish heartier, perfect for brunch or dinner. Simply layer diced or sliced ham between the potatoes and cheese sauce for a flavorful variation.
Leftover Ham? Use It!
If you have leftover ham from a holiday meal, this is an excellent way to repurpose it into something delicious.
Make-Ahead and Leftover Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make ahead, assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, preheat the oven and bake as directed.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven until warm.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Every Time
- Use a Mandoline: This ensures your potatoes are evenly sliced for consistent cooking.
- Thicken the Sauce: Cook the roux and add cheddar cheese slowly to create a creamy texture.
- Avoid Overbaking: Check to see if the potatoes are tender with a fork to prevent mushy results.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try blending cheeses like white cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella for depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scalloped Potatoes
How Do I Make Scalloped Potatoes Without Cheese?
If you prefer traditional scalloped potatoes, omit the cheese and rely on a creamy milk-based sauce.
Can I Freeze Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them! Allow the dish to cool completely, cover with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Scalloped Potatoes?
To reheat, place the potatoes in a 350°F oven until warm. Avoid microwaving, as it can affect the texture.
Leave a Reply