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Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

4.5 from 60 reviews

Classic Scalloped Potatoes feature thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, sharp cheddar cheese sauce, topped with an extra layer of melted cheese. This comforting casserole is perfect as a hearty side dish for family dinners or holiday meals, offering a rich, savory flavor and a golden, bubbly crust.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 4 cups potatoes, thinly sliced

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)

Topping and Garnish

  • 1/2 cup cheese (cheddar or Gruyère), grated
  • 1/2 cup green onions, sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking of the scalloped potatoes.
  2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the potatoes from sticking during baking.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat, then stir in 1 1/2 cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste and add a pinch of cayenne pepper if desired for a subtle heat.
  4. Assemble the Potatoes: Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes and pour the remaining cheese sauce on top.
  5. Add the Topping: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of extra grated cheese (cheddar or Gruyère) evenly over the assembled casserole for a delicious golden crust.
  6. Bake the Scalloped Potatoes: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
  7. Rest and Garnish: Remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and allow them to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired for a fresh, mild onion flavor.

Notes

  • Thinly slicing the potatoes ensures even cooking and a creamy texture.
  • Use sharp cheddar for a flavorful cheese sauce, but feel free to mix in Gruyère for a nuttier taste.
  • The pinch of cayenne pepper is optional but adds a lovely subtle kick to the dish.
  • Letting the dish rest after baking helps the sauce thicken and makes serving easier.
  • Make sure not to skip the roux step to avoid a lumpy cheese sauce.

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes, potato casserole, baked potatoes, comfort food, cheddar cheese sauce