Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, oozing with creamy goodness and topped with a golden, crispy layer. Imagine sinking your fork into tender, buttery potatoes enveloped in rich cheese sauce, sending your taste buds on a joyous adventure. savory ham cheese scones savory ham and cheese quiche This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights when you want to indulge and warm your soul. For more inspiration, check out this Butternut Squash Mac Cheese recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use other vegetables with cheesy scalloped potatoes?
- How do I prevent my potatoes from browning before baking?
- What type of cheese works best for cheesy scalloped potatoes?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Growing up, cheesy scalloped potatoes were a staple at our Sunday dinners. My grandmother would make an enormous dish that seemed to disappear faster than my cousins could get their forks ready. Each bite was met with sounds of delight and vague nods of approval from the table, and I can still hear the laughter echoing in my mind. comforting hot and sour soup Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe never fails to impress and create cherished memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy scalloped potatoes are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights
- The combination of flavors creates a rich and satisfying dish everyone craves
- Visually appealing with layers of golden cheese, they stand out at any gathering
- Versatile enough to pair with almost any main course or serve as a delightful standalone meal
I remember one holiday when my cousin tried to sneak an extra helping before anyone else arrived—needless to say, we all had a good laugh when he nearly dropped the entire dish!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes hold their shape beautifully during baking while becoming tender inside.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for that robust flavor that balances perfectly with creamy sauce. creamy asparagus risotto.
Heavy Cream: This adds the luxurious creaminess that makes every bite heavenly.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for richness and control over saltiness.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the flavor without overpowering the creamy goodness. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Sausage Rigatoni recipe.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors in your cheesy masterpiece.
Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor contrast.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting, wash and peel those russet potatoes before slicing them thinly; about 1/8 inch works best.
Create Your Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add heavy cream and stir until combined; this will be the base for your cheesy goodness.
Add Cheese & Seasonings: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Sprinkle in garlic powder along with salt and pepper to taste; this will elevate the flavor profile.
Layer It Up!: In a greased baking dish, layer sliced potatoes evenly while pouring some cheese sauce over each layer. Repeat until you finish both potatoes and sauce.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil for the last 15 minutes so that glorious cheese can crisp up beautifully.
Let It Rest Before Serving: Once out of the oven, let your cheesy scalloped potatoes rest for about 10 minutes. This will help everything set up nicely before diving in!
Now that you have all these delicious details laid out step-by-step, get ready to impress everyone around your dinner table! Enjoy every gooey bite of these cheesy scalloped potatoes—they’re sure to become a family favorite just like they did for me!
You Must Know
- Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a comfort food classic that never fails to impress
- The creamy layers and cheesy goodness make it perfect for gatherings
- The aroma wafting through your home will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” It’s a dish that brings warmth to any table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing the potatoes thinly for even cooking. Layer them with cheese and cream, then bake until bubbly and golden. This method ensures each bite is creamy and delicious.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix different cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère for added depth. You can also sprinkle in herbs or spices for a unique twist that makes it your own.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring a delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use starchy potatoes like Russets for creamier results; waxy potatoes tend to stay firm
- Don’t skimp on seasoning; salt layers enhance flavor throughout the dish
- Let it rest after baking; this helps set the layers beautifully before serving
The first time I made cheesy scalloped potatoes, my family devoured them in minutes, leaving me wondering if I’d even get a taste!
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables with cheesy scalloped potatoes?
Yes, adding broccoli or cauliflower enhances flavor and nutrition without sacrificing creaminess.
How do I prevent my potatoes from browning before baking?
Soak sliced potatoes in water until ready to use; this keeps them fresh and vibrant.
What type of cheese works best for cheesy scalloped potatoes?
A combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère creates a rich, flavorful experience that everyone will love.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a beloved comfort food that features layers of tender russet potatoes smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, bringing warmth and joy to your dinner table. With its golden, crispy top and gooey interior, these scalloped potatoes promise to impress everyone—making it an instant classic in any household.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and slice the russet potatoes to about 1/8 inch thick.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add heavy cream and stir until combined.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, layer sliced potatoes evenly, pouring cheese sauce over each layer. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil for the last 15 minutes to allow the cheese to crisp up.
- Let rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 322
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
