Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a creamy, dreamy side dish that perfectly complements any meal. With layers of tender potatoes enveloped in rich cheese sauce, this dish is sure to impress at family gatherings, holiday dinners, or even weeknight meals. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for anyone craving comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The rich blend of cheddar cheese and creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering experience with each bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with meats, poultry, or serve them as a hearty vegetarian option.
• Great for Gatherings: This dish serves up to 8 people, making it ideal for potlucks, holidays, or family dinners.
• Comfort Food Classic: It’s the ultimate comfort food that warms the heart and pleases everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these delicious Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8-inch casserole dish
• Medium-size saucepan
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole Dish: A good-quality dish ensures even baking and easy serving.
• Medium-Size Saucepan: Ideal for making the cheese sauce without splatter.
• Whisk: Essential for achieving a smooth and lump-free cheese sauce.

Ingredients

If you don’t want ooey gooey cheese covering every single nook and cranny of your scalloped potatoes then look away. These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection!

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

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Arrange the Vegetables

Arrange the potatoes and onions in the prepared baking dish, staggering potato and then onion.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium-size saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Mix in flour and salt, stirring constantly with a whisk for one minute. Stir in milk and cook until thickened.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Stir in cheese all at once, continuing to stir until melted and smooth, about 30–60 seconds.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 85–90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 7: Broil for Crispiness

For a crisp topping, change the oven setting to broil after baking. Broil until golden brown.

Step 8: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot. Enjoy your delightful Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes!

How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs well with various meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Elevate with Proteins

• Roasted Chicken – Tender, juicy roasted chicken complements the creamy texture of the potatoes.
• Grilled Turkey – The smoky flavor of grilled turkey adds a nice contrast to the cheesy goodness.
• Beef Stew – A hearty beef stew is perfect for soaking up the cheese sauce.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad – A light garden salad balances the richness of the potatoes with fresh greens.
• Caesar Salad – The crisp romaine and tangy dressing enhance the flavors of your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes.
• Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that offsets the creaminess.

Enhance with Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients, making for a well-rounded plate.
• Roasted Asparagus – The earthy flavor of roasted asparagus pairs beautifully with cheesy dishes.

How to Perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Achieving perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for an outstanding dish.

• Use uniform potato slices – Slicing potatoes evenly ensures they cook at the same rate, resulting in perfect tenderness.
• Add layers of flavor – Incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary between layers for added depth and aroma.
• Choose high-quality cheese – Using mild cheddar cheese enhances creaminess while ensuring a delightful melt.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the dish to sit for 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set, making serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

When it comes to side dishes that complement Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, there are plenty of options. Here are some ideal pairings:

1. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection provide a smoky flavor that works well.
2. Garlic Bread – Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover cheese sauce.
3. Crispy Fried Chicken – Juicy fried chicken offers a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with creamy potatoes.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies add a vibrant touch to your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad brings freshness while being packed with protein and fiber.
6. Baked Zucchini Fries – These healthy fries add a fun twist and are great for dipping in leftover cheese sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make all the difference in achieving the perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes.

• Not Using Enough Cheese: Skimping on cheese can lead to bland potatoes. Ensure you use enough cheese for a rich and creamy flavor.
• Slicing Potatoes Unevenly: If your potato slices are not uniform, they will cook unevenly. Aim for ¼-inch slices for consistent cooking.
• Skipping the Broiling Step: Broiling adds a delicious golden crust. Don’t skip this step if you want that crispy topping!
• Using Cold Milk: Cold milk can affect the sauce’s texture and smoothness. Always use room temperature milk for a better cheese sauce.
• Not Covering While Baking: Covering the dish with foil helps steam the potatoes and keep them moist during baking. Remove the foil only when broiling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and reheat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of milk for creaminess if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes.

What type of potatoes are best for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which helps create creamy layers that hold up well during baking.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for added flavor.

How do I know when my Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are done?

The potatoes are done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. A golden brown top is also a good indicator!

Can I make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add extra time to bake if it’s cold from the fridge.

Are there any variations I can try?

Consider adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli between layers or using different seasonings like garlic powder or thyme for added depth of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are not just a side dish; they bring comfort and warmth to any meal. This recipe is versatile enough to allow for customization, whether you prefer different cheeses or added vegetables. Give it a try and enjoy this creamy delight!