Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a warm, comforting dish everyone loves! Layers of tender potatoes are baked with creamy cheese sauce, making it oh-so-delicious.
Who can resist that cheesy goodness? I mean, if you have leftovers, you might just find me sneaking bites right from the dish! 😂
Making these scalloped potatoes is easy. Just slice, layer, and bake. They pair perfectly with almost anything—like a main dish or holiday feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: They have a starchy texture, making them great for this dish. If you prefer, you can swap them for Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its flavor. You can mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for variety.
Heavy Cream & Whole Milk: This combo gives the sauce richness. You can use half-and-half for a lighter option, or even oat milk for a dairy-free version. Just make sure it’s unsweetened!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, olive oil or vegan butter can be used instead.
How Do I Create a Smooth Cheese Sauce?
Making a smooth cheese sauce can feel tricky, but it’s all about the roux! Here’s what to do:
- Start with melted butter and minced garlic in a saucepan. Cook for just a minute to infuse flavor.
- Add flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, constantly stirring. This helps eliminate any raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Stir continuously to avoid lumps. Patience is key!
- Once thickened, remove it from heat and stir in cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning for a perfect balance!
Remember to keep the heat low when adding cheese to avoid burning it—this will ensure your sauce is creamy and delicious! Enjoy your cooking! 🌟
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme for garnish)
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to bake. You’ll spend some time layering those potatoes and making the creamy sauce, so grab your favorite cooking playlist and enjoy the process!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or a non-stick spray for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, stir in the flour and cook while stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux.
Next, gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Once thick, remove it from heat and mix in 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Don’t forget to add the salt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg if you’d like a little extra flavor!
3. Layer the Potatoes
Now, it’s time to layer! In your prepared baking dish, place half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it carefully so all pieces are covered.
Next, place the remaining sliced potatoes on top and pour the rest of the cheese sauce over this layer. To finish, sprinkle the last cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
4. Bake to Cheesy Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and pop it in the oven to bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can test the tenderness of the potatoes with a fork; they should be soft and easy to pierce through.
5. Rest and Serve
When done, let the scalloped potatoes rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set a little! If you’d like, feel free to garnish with some fresh thyme leaves for added flavor and a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
This creamy, cheesy baked potato dish is perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the scalloped potatoes up to the baking stage, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time, as you’ll be starting with a cold dish.
What Can I Use Instead of Cheddar Cheese?
If cheddar isn’t your thing, you can try other melting cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor. You can also mix cheeses to create a more complex taste profile. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Can I Freeze Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them! After baking and cooling completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as instructed, adding a bit more time if necessary to heat through.
