Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a classic, creamy, and comforting side dish featuring thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich cheese sauce until golden and bubbly. If you’re tired of dry, overcooked chicken breasts or uninspired sides, this recipe offers a luscious blend of tender potatoes with melty cheese and a crispy top that complements any meal from family dinners to festive occasions.

At dishfoody.com, this recipe showcases how simple ingredients combine to deliver big flavors with an irresistible texture. This article covers why this recipe works, choosing the best potatoes and cheese, prep tips, step-by-step cooking instructions, expert advice, flavor variations, serving suggestions, and FAQs.

Why This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Works

• Uses thinly sliced Potatoes for even cooking and creamy texture
• Combines a cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and milk for rich flavor
• Bakes to a golden crust while keeping the inside tender and creamy

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Best Ingredients for This Recipe

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best they hold shape and become tender. Sharp cheddar cheese adds depth and richness. Whole milk or cream creates a smooth, velvety sauce.

Buying Tips

Select firm potatoes without blemishes or sprouts. Use freshly shredded cheese for optimal melting and flavor.

Substitutions

Gruyère or fontina can replace cheddar for different cheese profiles. Use half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer sauce.

Ingredients & Prep for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Pre-Cooking Prep

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.

Cooking Method

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
2. Slowly add milk while whisking until sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
4. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the baking dish. Pour half the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top if using.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Doneness Check

Potatoes should be fork-tender and the cheese sauce creamy and bubbly.

Resting

Rest to allow sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Slice potatoes uniformly thin to ensure even cooking.
• Use fresh grated cheese for best melt and flavor.
• Cover during initial baking to steam potatoes properly, uncover for a crispy top.

Flavor Variations for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Spicy Twist

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to cheese sauce.

Keto/Paleo

Use heavy cream and cheese only; omit flour or use almond flour.

Global Flavors

• French: Add Gruyère and fresh thyme.
• Italian: Mix in Parmesan and garlic with mozzarella topping.
• Southern: Include cooked ham or bacon bits between layers.

Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Serve alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or sautéed vegetables. Great for holiday dinners or cozy weeknight meals.

FAQs for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Can I prepare ahead? Yes, assemble and refrigerate; bake before serving.
• How to store leftovers? Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days; reheat gently.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour as a substitute.

Conclusion

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a timeless, indulgent side that makes a perfect addition to any meal with their creamy texture and golden cheesy crust. Easy to prepare and crowd-pleasing, it’s sure to become a favorite. For more comforting recipes, visit dishfoody.com and try our Duchess Potatoes next!

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Print Recipe

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are creamy, tender potato slices baked with a rich cheese sauce, making a classic comfort food side dish.

• Author: ssam
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 1 hr
• Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

• 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
• 2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
• 3. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
• 4. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
• 5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
• 6. Layer half the potatoes in the baking dish.
• 7. Pour half the cheese sauce over potatoes.
• 8. Repeat layers.
• 9. Cover with foil and bake 45 minutes.
• 10. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
• 11. Let rest before serving.

Notes

• Use uniform potato slices for even cooking.
• Add cooked bacon or onions for added flavor.
• Substitute cheeses as preferred.
• Best served warm.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: cheesy scalloped potatoes, creamy potatoes, comfort food side, baked potatoes