The aroma of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes wafts through the air, enveloping you in a warm embrace of creamy goodness and cheesy delight. Picture layers of thinly sliced potatoes, lovingly nestled in rich, velvety cheese sauce that’s bubbling with excitement in the oven. This dish is basically the culinary equivalent of a cozy blanket on a chilly day, bringing comfort and joy to any gathering.
I remember the first time I made these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for a family reunion. My aunt, renowned for her culinary prowess, took one bite and proclaimed it a “creamy miracle.” Now, every holiday dinner demands my cheesy creation as the star of the show. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or just as a Sunday treat, this dish promises to elevate your meal to pure bliss.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this dish perfect for any home cook
- The flavor profile is an irresistible blend of creamy and cheesy goodness
- Visually appealing with its golden-brown top layer, it is sure to impress your guests
- This recipe’s versatility allows it to complement any main dish beautifully
I’ll never forget the look on my cousin’s face when he took that first bite—pure bliss mixed with disbelief at how something so simple could taste so divine.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Potatoes: Choose starchy varieties like Russets for fluffy texture; they absorb flavors beautifully.
Heavy Cream: Opt for heavy cream for an ultra-rich sauce that will make your taste buds dance.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor; nothing beats sharp cheddar.
Milk: Whole milk works great to balance richness while keeping the sauce creamy.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness; it’s essential for enhancing flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
Garlic Powder: Don’t skimp on garlic powder; it elevates the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
Fresh Herbs (Optional): Sprinkle some fresh thyme or parsley for color and added freshness if desired.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you gather your ingredients. Grab a large baking dish and grease it lightly with butter; this will ensure easy cleanup later.
Slice the Potatoes: Begin by peeling and thinly slicing about 3 pounds of potatoes into uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly, resulting in creamy perfection.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Stir in ¼ cup of flour until smooth, cooking until slightly bubbly before gradually adding 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 cup of milk.
Add Seasoning: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir continuously until thickened—about 5 minutes—and then mix in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it’s all melty and divine.
Layer It Up: In your greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Pour half of your cheesy sauce over them before repeating with another layer of potatoes followed by the remaining sauce.
Bake to Perfection: Cover with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly on top—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Now that you have created these delightful Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, serve them hot alongside your favorite protein or enjoy them solo! Your taste buds are guaranteed a fabulous adventure filled with cheesy goodness and comforting warmth. Enjoy every gooey bite!
You Must Know
- Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a comforting dish that pairs perfectly with any meal
- The layers of creamy potatoes and gooey cheese will have your guests begging for seconds
- This dish is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables for extra flavor
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing the potatoes thinly and evenly, then layer them in a greased baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over each layer, ensuring every potato slice gets drenched in cheesy goodness.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding garlic powder for an aromatic twist or mixing in sautéed onions or spinach. You can even swap cheddar for Gruyère or fontina to elevate the dish further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cheesy scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect cheesy scalloped potatoes, slice your potatoes uniformly for even cooking
- Always taste your cheese sauce and adjust seasoning as needed
- Let the dish rest after baking; this helps it set for easier serving
The first time I made cheesy scalloped potatoes, my best friend claimed it was life-changing! We laughed and devoured the entire dish together, creating a cherished memory.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese for cheesy scalloped potatoes?
Absolutely! Experiment with various cheeses like Gouda or mozzarella for different flavors.
How long should I bake cheesy scalloped potatoes?
Bake at 375°F for about 45-60 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Can I prepare cheesy scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble beforehand and refrigerate; just add extra baking time when ready to serve.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, featuring layers of tender potatoes smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. With a golden-brown top and gooey interior, these scalloped potatoes will have everyone coming back for seconds! Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, they are sure to become a staple at your holiday table.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish with butter.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter; stir in flour until smooth. Gradually add heavy cream and milk, stirring until thickened (about 5 minutes). Mix in garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese until melted.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish; pour half of the cheese sauce over them. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes; uncover and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 60mg