Description
These cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, featuring layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy cheese sauce. With a golden brown, bubbly top, this dish is perfect as a side for family dinners, holiday feasts, or potlucks. Add ham for a hearty twist or enjoy it as a standalone dish. It’s simple to make and delivers a rich, indulgent flavor that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Potatoes:
- 3 pounds russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1 to 2 cups diced or sliced cooked ham (optional for a heartier dish)
- Additional cheeses like jack cheese or white cheddar
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Set them aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to make a roux.
- Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and whisk until fully melted. Add garlic (optional), salt, and pepper to taste. Remove the sauce from heat.
3. Layer the Potatoes:
- Grease a baking dish (9×13-inch works well) with butter or cooking spray.
- Arrange half of the potato slices evenly at the bottom of the dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce, spreading it evenly.
4. Bake the Dish:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top. Bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the dish to cool for about 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set for easier serving.
Notes
- Potato Type: Use russet potatoes for a creamy texture or Yukon Gold potatoes for firmer layers and a buttery flavor.
- Even Slicing: Use a mandoline for thin, uniform slices to ensure even cooking.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with other cheeses like white cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella for a unique flavor profile.
- Adding Ham: Layer cooked ham between the potatoes and cheese sauce for a more filling, protein-packed dish.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 calories per serving
Keywords: Cheesy scalloped potatoes, scalloped potato recipe, creamy potatoes, comfort food, potato casserole, holiday side dish, potatoes au gratin