Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

by

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, a timeless side dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or a cozy weeknight meal. This dish features tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a rich cheese sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even on its own. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and guarantees satisfying results.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of buttery, cheesy sauce with the delicate texture of thinly sliced potatoes creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The use of cayenne pepper adds a hint of warmth, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the cheese. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it suitable for various occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work well)
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 dash cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (for the sauce)
  • ½ cup grated cheese (to sprinkle on top, choose your favorite type)
  • Paprika (for garnish, optional)

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

  1. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly.
  2. Make a Roux: Add the flour to the melted butter, stirring constantly for about a minute. This helps to cook the flour and develop flavor.
  3. Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the cold milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
  4. Season the Sauce: Add the salt and a dash of cayenne pepper. Cook the sauce on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes smooth and begins to boil. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Incorporate the Cheese: Once the sauce is boiling, reduce the heat and stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Layer the Potatoes: In a lightly greased one-quart casserole dish, place half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom.
  2. Add the Cheese Sauce: Pour half of the cheese sauce over the first layer of potatoes, ensuring an even coating.
  3. Repeat Layers: Add the remaining sliced potatoes on top, followed by the rest of the cheese sauce.
  4. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top of the final layer of sauce. For added color and flavor, sprinkle a pinch of paprika on top.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the casserole.
  2. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  3. Cool and Serve: Once baked, let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness!

Helpful Tips for Recipe Success

  • Slice Potatoes Thinly: Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform thickness for even cooking.
  • Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes provide a fluffy texture, while Yukon Gold potatoes offer creaminess. Feel free to mix both!
  • Customize the Cheese: Try different cheese combinations such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the layers in advance and refrigerate before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
  • Cover if Browning Too Fast: If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover the casserole loosely with aluminum foil for part of the baking time.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: Approximately 290
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 9g

Time Required

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Servings: 6

These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes will elevate any meal with their rich flavors and comforting textures. They are sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection, bringing smiles to the table with every bite. Enjoy!

Leave a Comment