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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe offers a comforting and creamy side dish featuring tender russet potatoes layered with a rich, silky cheese sauce and baked to a perfect golden crust. Ideal for any occasion, it pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or can be enjoyed as a hearty vegetarian main. Simple pantry staples come together to create an ultra creamy, flavorful dish that’s make-ahead friendly and sure to delight everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder (or 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh onions)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel your russet potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and layering.
  2. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in minced garlic and heavy cream. Slowly add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and onion powder.
  3. Layer the Potatoes: Butter a baking dish. Arrange a layer of potato slices in the dish, then pour a portion of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Repeat layering potatoes and cheese sauce until all are used, finishing with a layer of cheese sauce on top.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  5. Rest and Serve: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.

Notes

  • Use a mandoline slicer for uniform, thin potato slices to ensure even cooking.
  • Do not overcrowd the layers; apply enough cheese sauce between layers to keep potatoes moist and flavorful.
  • Bake at a moderate temperature (350°F) to achieve creamy potatoes inside without burning the cheese topping.
  • Sharp cheddar cheese provides the best flavor, but feel free to mix cheeses for depth.
  • Allow the dish to rest before serving to help it firm up and prevent it from falling apart.

Nutrition

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes, creamy side dish, baked potatoes, comfort food, gluten free