Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a warm, comforting dish made with layers of tender potatoes and gooey cheese. It’s like a big hug on your plate!
The best part? It’s super easy to make! Just slice the potatoes, layer them with cheese, and bake until bubbly. I love serving this alongside roasted chicken for a cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russell Potatoes: These are starchy and perfect for baking, giving that creamy texture. If you’re looking for an alternative, Yukon Gold potatoes work nicely—they’re waxy and add a buttery flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a strong flavor, but you could try Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different taste. For a vegan option, use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness. If you want a lighter version, you can use skim milk or even unsweetened almond milk. Just note that the sauce might be a bit thinner.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the best for controlling saltiness. You can replace it with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative if you need to avoid dairy.
How Do I Ensure My Cheese Sauce Stays Smooth?
Making a perfect cheese sauce can be tricky, but with careful steps, you’ll nail it!
- When making the roux (butter and flour mixture), ensure it bubbles but doesn’t brown. This keeps the sauce from having an off taste.
- Whisk in the milk gradually to prevent lumps. Stir continuously as it thickens.
- Remove the sauce from heat before adding cheese. This prevents the cheese from getting grainy from overheating.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll have a smooth, velvety sauce that coats every potato slice beautifully! Enjoy your cheesy scalloped potatoes!
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for richer flavor)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour to bake. So in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can dive into this delicious dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will help the potatoes cook evenly and get that golden-brown top! Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Garlic Butter:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas!
3. Create the Roux:
Add the flour to the saucepan to create a roux. Stir constantly for about 1 minute while cooking. This step is important for thickening the sauce later on!
4. Whisk in the Milk:
Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking to avoid any lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the Cheese:
Once thickened, remove the sauce from heat. Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper for flavor.
6. Layer the Potatoes:
Now it’s time to assemble! Arrange a layer of potato slices in the prepared baking dish. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, making sure to spread it out evenly.
7. Repeat the Layers:
Keep layering the potatoes and cheese sauce until all the ingredients are used up. Make sure to finish with a layer of cheese sauce on top. Yum!
8. Sprinkle Extra Cheese:
To make it extra cheesy, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top of the final layer.
9. Bake the Dish:
Cover the dish with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook through.
10. Brown the Top:
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will give you that beautifully golden and bubbly top. To check if the potatoes are done, pierce them with a fork; they should be tender!
11. Let It Rest:
Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely. If you’d like, garnish with dried thyme or parsley for a pop of color.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, golden-baked classic scalloped potatoes! It’s a delightful side dish that will warm the hearts of everyone at your table.
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While russet potatoes are recommended for their creaminess, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes. They have a buttery flavor and hold up well in baking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with whole milk or even a plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk. The sauce may be a bit thinner, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick option.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the whole dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it with foil and when you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the initial bake time if it’s coming directly from the fridge.
