Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a comforting classic perfect for any family meal. Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, creamy cheese sauce create a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. This recipe yields tender, golden layers that are sure to become a favorite side.

Ingredients

• 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (about 2 pounds)
• 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
• 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Arrange the sliced potatoes and onion rings in the baking dish, alternating layers of potatoes and onions for even distribution.
3. Step 3: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and kosher salt, stirring constantly for one minute to form a roux.
4. Step 4: Gradually stir in the whole milk and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
5. Step 5: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese all at once, continuing to stir until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
6. Step 6: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
7. Step 7: Bake covered for 85 to 90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
8. Step 8: For a golden, crispy topping, switch the oven to broil after baking. Broil the dish uncovered for a few minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Step 9: Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use Yukon gold potatoes instead of russets for a creamier texture.
• For extra flavor, add minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme to the cheese sauce.
• Swap mild cheddar for sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses like Gruyere for a richer taste.
• To make ahead, assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Storage

Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain a creamy texture, or microwave portions for convenience. Avoid reheating under the broiler to prevent burning.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

While whole milk gives the creamiest sauce, you can substitute low-fat or 2% milk. The sauce may be slightly less rich but will still be delicious.

How do I know when the potatoes are done baking?

The potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. If they still feel firm after the initial baking time, cover and continue baking, checking every 10 minutes.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a comforting baked casserole dish featuring thinly sliced russet potatoes and onions layered and smothered in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. This classic side is perfect for family dinners and holiday meals, offering a delicious combination of tender potatoes and gooey cheese with a golden browned top.

• Author: Lara
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Potatoes & Vegetables

• 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (about 2 pounds)
• 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings

Cheese Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
• 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange Potatoes and Onions: Layer the potato slices and onion rings alternately in the prepared baking dish, staggering them evenly for balanced cooking and flavor distribution.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and kosher salt, stirring constantly for about one minute to create a roux. Gradually add the room temperature whole milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
4. Add the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the shredded mild cheddar cheese all at once. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, which should take about 30 to 60 seconds.
5. Combine and Cover: Pour the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the arranged potatoes and onions in the casserole dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
6. Bake the Potatoes: Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 85 to 90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Broil for a Crisp Topping: After baking, remove the foil and switch your oven setting to broil. Broil the casserole until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp, watching carefully to prevent burning.
8. Season and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Notes

• Use room temperature milk to prevent lumps in the cheese sauce.
• Thin slices of potatoes ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
• Broiling at the end adds a lovely golden crust to the dish.
• Covering with foil during baking helps retain moisture and prevents the potatoes from drying out.
• This dish can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.

Keywords: cheesy scalloped potatoes, baked potatoes, comfort food, side dish, casserole, cheddar cheese, potatoes and onions