Ultimate Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Welcome to a recipe that will elevate your side dish game to new heights – Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes! This delightful dish takes simple potatoes and transforms them into a luxurious and creamy masterpiece that is sure to steal the show at any gathering. Picture layers of thinly sliced potatoes enveloped in a decadent cheese sauce, boasting a perfect blend of crispy edges and velvety centers that will have everyone clamoring for seconds.

I remember the first time I whipped up these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for a holiday dinner, looking for a special yet manageable side to accompany my festive ham. The reactions from my guests spoke volumes, confirming that this dish was a true winner and soon to become a staple on my holiday table. There’s something magical about watching the cheese sauce bubble and brown in the oven, signaling that a delicious masterpiece is in the making.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply craving a comforting side for a weeknight dinner, these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes will not disappoint. With the ability to prepare them ahead of time and pair them with a variety of main courses, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. So, roll up your sleeves, grab those potatoes, and get ready to create a side dish that will have your guests asking for the recipe time and time again.

Quick Benefits

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: Layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a rich cheese sauce create a perfect balance of crispy edges and creamy centers.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare up to 24 hours in advance for easy entertaining, just finish with the final bake before serving.
• Versatile Side Dish: Complements a variety of main courses – from holiday roasts like turkey and ham to everyday dinners like grilled chicken or roasted fish.
• Customizable Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Parmesan, or Fontina to create a richer, more complex flavor profile.

Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Texture: This recipe creates a luxurious cheese sauce that coats each slice of potato, resulting in a velvety and indulgent dish that is sure to satisfy any comfort food cravings.
• Perfect Balance of Crispy and Creamy: The layers of thinly sliced potatoes bake to perfection, achieving a delightful contrast of crispy edges and tender, creamy centers that will have you coming back for more.
• Impressive Holiday Side Dish: Elevate your holiday gatherings with these cheesy scalloped potatoes that are guaranteed to steal the spotlight on your festive table and impress your guests with their decadent flavor.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare this dish up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to focus on other tasks or enjoy more time with your loved ones. Simply refrigerate and bake when ready, making it a convenient and stress-free addition to your meal.
• Versatile Pairing: Whether served alongside roast turkey, glazed ham, grilled chicken, or roasted fish, these scalloped potatoes complement a wide range of main courses, making them a versatile and delicious side dish for any occasion.
• Family Favorite: The heartwarming reactions of guests and loved ones who try this dish speak volumes about its irresistibly delicious taste, making it a recipe that is bound to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions and family gatherings.
• Customizable Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Parmesan, or Fontina to create a unique flavor profile or blend cheeses for a richer and more complex taste that will keep you coming back for seconds.
• Foolproof Tips for Success: From using a mandolin for evenly sliced potatoes to adjusting the baking time based on the temperature of the dish, the recipe provides helpful tips to ensure your scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly every time, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Suits Various Diets and Preferences: With its ability to complement a variety of proteins and side dishes, this recipe offers a versatile option that can be enjoyed by different dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings with diverse tastes.

Ingredients for Ultimate Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup cream
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 kg potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1.5 cups milk
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Parsley or dill, for garnish
• ¾ cup cheddar cheese

How to Make Ultimate Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.

Step 2: Prepare Potatoes

Thinly peel and slice the potatoes, then arrange them in a buttered baking dish.

Step 3: Make Sauce

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk and cream while whisking to prevent lumps. Season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Cheese to Sauce

Stir in the mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 5: Layer and Bake

Spread half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, then cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 6: Final Bake

Uncover the dish, pour the remaining sauce over the potatoes, and bake for an additional hour or until the potatoes are golden and tender.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with parsley or dill and serve hot or warm.

Storage Tips

To store the finished dish of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, ensure it has cooled to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Place any leftovers in the refrigerator promptly, where they can be stored for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, you can warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at a low temperature to prevent the cheese from becoming overly browned.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, ensuring there is some space for expansion. Frozen scalloped potatoes can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven until heated through, adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.

Remember to label the containers with the freezing or storing date to keep track of freshness. When enjoying the reheated scalloped potatoes, consider garnishing with additional herbs or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavors. With proper storage and reheating techniques, you can savor this delicious side dish even after the initial preparation.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch up the cheeses in this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe, consider using Gruyere, Parmesan, or Fontina as alternatives to mozzarella and cheddar. These cheeses will offer different flavor profiles while still melting beautifully and adding richness to the dish. Mixing different cheeses can also create a more complex and indulgent taste.

In case you don’t have cream on hand, you could substitute it with half-and-half or a combination of milk and melted butter for a slightly lighter option. The key is to maintain the richness and creaminess of the sauce, so adjusting the ratio of milk to butter can help achieve a similar texture. Just be mindful of the consistency as you want the sauce to coat the potatoes evenly.

If you want to make this dish vegetarian-friendly, you can swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or olive oil. This substitution will still provide the necessary fat for the cheese sauce and help achieve a golden-brown crust on top of the scalloped potatoes. Additionally, using a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk can replace dairy milk without compromising the overall flavor and creaminess of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider topping your cheesy scalloped potatoes with crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions for an added depth of flavor and texture. The salty crunch of the bacon or the sweet caramelized onions will take this classic dish to the next level, making it a standout side dish at any gathering.

Another fun way to serve these cheesy scalloped potatoes is to layer them in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a personalized touch. This not only makes for a visually appealing presentation but also allows each guest to have their own perfectly portioned dish of creamy, cheesy goodness. Garnish each mini scalloped potato bake with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill to add a pop of color and freshness before serving.

FAQs for Ultimate Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Can I prepare the cheesy scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it just before serving. Add additional baking time if chilled.

What should I do if the top of the scalloped potatoes is browning too quickly?

If the top is browning too quickly before the potatoes are tender, loosely cover with foil for part of the final baking to prevent burning.

What can I do if the cheese sauce is too thin or too thick?

If the sauce is too thin, extend the initial simmering time. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk before pouring it over the potatoes.

What are some good cheese alternatives for this recipe?

Gruyere, Parmesan, or Fontina are great alternatives to mozzarella and cheddar. You can also mix different cheeses for a richer, more complex flavor.

Conclusion

As you prepare to indulge in these delectable Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, remember that the beauty of this dish lies not just in its rich flavors but also in the joy it brings to those who savor it. Whether you’re serving it for a festive holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, these potatoes have a special way of making any occasion feel extraordinary. So, take pride in mastering this recipe and sharing it with your loved ones.

May the aroma of bubbling cheese and tender potatoes fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort as you create memories around the table. Embrace the process of crafting these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with love and care, knowing that each layer you assemble is a labor of love that will surely be appreciated by all who gather to enjoy it. Here’s to many more delightful moments shared over a heaping dish of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes!

Ultimate Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Creamy and indulgent Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes elevate any meal with layers of potatoes blanketed in a rich cheese sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time90 Minutes

Total Time100 Minutes

CuisineFrench

Skill LevelEasy

Servings5 Servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup cream
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 kg potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1.5 cups milk
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Parsley or dill, for garnish
• ¾ cup cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. Prepare Potatoes: Thinly peel and slice the potatoes, then arrange them in a buttered baking dish.
3. Make Sauce: 1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk and cream while whisking to prevent lumps. Season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Cheese to Sauce: Stir in the mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Layer and Bake: Spread half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, then cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Final Bake: Uncover the dish, pour the remaining sauce over the potatoes, and bake for an additional hour or until the potatoes are golden and tender.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with parsley or dill and serve hot or warm.