Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the epitome of comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crispy. Whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. The rich combination of tender potatoes, a velvety sauce, and layers of gooey cheese makes this recipe irresistible to family and friends. The flavor is simply divine—savory, creamy, and with a subtle hint of garlic and onion that will have everyone asking for seconds.

In this article, we’ll walk you through every step to make these indulgent Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, from selecting the perfect ingredients to achieving that golden, bubbly finish. The result is a dish that pairs wonderfully with chicken, red meat, or fish, making it a versatile and show-stopping side dish.

Ingredients Breakdown

To create the perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

• 1 kg of potatoes (or enough to fill your dish): Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for the best texture. They’ll absorb the creamy sauce and create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth result.
• 1 cup of mozzarella cheese: The mozzarella adds stretch and gooeyness to the dish. It melts beautifully, creating that signature cheesy pull.
• ¾ cup of cheddar cheese: Cheddar gives the dish a rich, sharp flavor that balances out the creaminess of the sauce.
• 1 cup of cream: Heavy cream is the base of the sauce, giving it the richness and smooth texture that makes scalloped potatoes so delightful.
• 1.5 cups of milk: Milk thins out the sauce while still keeping it creamy. You can use whole milk for the richest flavor, or opt for a lower-fat version if you prefer.
• 2 tablespoons of melted butter: Butter adds depth and flavor to the sauce, making it even more luscious.
• 2 tablespoons of flour: The flour helps thicken the sauce, creating a creamy texture that will coat the potatoes perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder: Onion powder brings out a subtle sweetness and savory depth, complementing the creaminess of the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder: Garlic powder adds warmth and a savory kick to the dish.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the cheese and potatoes.
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herby note to balance the richness of the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, let’s walk through the process of making these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the ideal temperature for baking the potatoes until they’re tender and golden brown. While the oven is heating, butter a baking dish. You want a dish that’s large enough to fit your sliced potatoes in a single layer. A 9×9-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Peel your potatoes and slice them thinly, about ⅛ inch thick. You can use a sharp knife, but if you have a mandolin, it’s an excellent tool to ensure your slices are uniform. Thin slices ensure the potatoes cook evenly and soak up the creamy sauce. Layer the slices in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the 2 tablespoons of flour. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and slightly bubbly—this should take about a minute.

Gradually add in the 1.5 cups of milk and 1 cup of cream, whisking as you go to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Once the sauce has thickened, add the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses to the saucepan. Stir until the cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy mixture. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Pour half of the cheesy sauce over the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Spread the sauce evenly with a spoon or spatula. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes to allow the potatoes to soften and the sauce to start setting.

Step 6: Bake and Finish

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and pour the remaining cheese sauce over the potatoes. This will create a deliciously cheesy top layer. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 1 hour, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Choosing the right potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are the best for this dish. They break down and absorb the sauce, creating the creamy texture you’re after. Waxy potatoes like Red Bliss won’t work as well since they hold their shape and won’t absorb the sauce as much.
• Uniform slicing: To ensure even cooking, slice the potatoes uniformly. If you have a mandolin slicer, it’s a great tool for this. If not, just make sure the slices are as even as possible.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the dish a day ahead. Assemble everything, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it into the oven and bake as instructed. This is perfect for holiday dinners when you want to get ahead on your prep work.
• Cheese variations: While mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices, feel free to experiment. Gruyère, Parmesan, or even Gouda can add a unique flavor. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well.
• Spices and herbs: Add a dash of paprika, thyme, or rosemary to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. These herbs pair wonderfully with the creamy potatoes and cheese.

Serving Suggestions

These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a perfect accompaniment to any main dish. Here are some ideas on what to pair them with:

• Roast chicken: The creamy potatoes provide a perfect balance to roasted or grilled chicken. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• Steak: Whether you’re grilling a ribeye or roasting a tenderloin, these potatoes will elevate your steak dinner to the next level.
• Fish: The light, creamy texture of the potatoes pairs beautifully with flaky white fish, like cod or tilapia. Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Variations

While this recipe is already pretty perfect, here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits to the potatoes for an extra burst of flavor. You can layer them in with the potatoes or sprinkle them on top just before serving.
• Vegetarian version: For a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth instead of milk and cream. Swap out the cheese for a non-dairy alternative if desired.
• Spicy version: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—a rich, creamy, and cheesy side dish that will steal the show at any holiday dinner or family gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is impressive. The layers of tender potatoes, velvety cheese sauce, and gooey melted cheese make every bite a pure indulgence.

So, next time you’re planning a special dinner or holiday feast, make sure these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are on your menu. They’re bound to become a favorite for everyone at the table.