When it comes to cozy, soul-warming dishes, nothing quite compares to Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food. Imagine layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a velvety, creamy cheese sauce, all bubbling together under a golden, irresistible crust. This classic casserole is a must for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or any night you need a little extra comfort on your table. Whether you’re serving it alongside a juicy roast or letting it steal the show on its own, these cheesy scalloped potatoes are pure nostalgia baked into every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe has a special role to play, from building a silky sauce to creating that signature golden top. Simple staples transform into something truly memorable, so don’t skip any step or swap out the essentials—each one ensures your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food come out perfect every time.
- Russet potatoes: Their starchy texture is ideal for soaking up all the creamy, cheesy goodness and baking up tender.
- Unsalted butter: Forms the base of the roux, lending richness and depth to the sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce just enough to coat every slice of potato without being gluey.
- Whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps balance the richness of the cream and cheese.
- Heavy cream: For an ultra-luxurious, velvety texture that makes each bite unforgettable.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Brings bold, tangy flavor and the perfect melt factor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory punch and helps brown the top beautifully.
- Garlic powder: Infuses subtle aromatic warmth throughout the dish.
- Onion powder: Rounds out the flavor profile for that classic comfort food taste.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors of the potatoes and cheese.
- Black pepper: Provides a gentle kick and balances the richness.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens up the finished casserole.
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Peel your russet potatoes and slice them as thinly as possible—aim for about 1/8-inch thick. A mandoline makes this step quick and precise, but a sharp knife and a steady hand work just as well. Perfectly thin slices ensure your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food cook evenly and absorb maximum flavor.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about a minute to create a smooth roux—this helps thicken your sauce without lumps. Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking all the while until the mixture is slightly thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Remove from the heat, then add 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s completely melted and silky. This luscious sauce is the heart of your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce
Arrange half of your sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the warm cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it with a spatula to coat every slice. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and finish with the rest of the sauce, making sure every edge is covered. For that signature bubbly, golden top, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and all the grated Parmesan evenly over the surface.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the potatoes to steam and begin softening. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for that moment when the potatoes are tender, the cheese is bubbling, and the top is gloriously golden brown. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving—this helps the sauce set up and makes slicing easier.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Now you’re ready to dive in and enjoy the magic of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food with every forkful.
How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of green and a hint of brightness to balance the richness. For a special touch, try adding a dusting of smoked paprika or finely sliced chives to make your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food look as amazing as they taste.
Side Dishes
This creamy casserole pairs perfectly with classic roasted meats like ham, beef, or turkey. For a lighter spread, serve alongside a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or sautéed greens. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food can easily anchor a vegetarian meal too—just add a medley of roasted vegetables and a loaf of crusty bread.
Creative Ways to Present
For family-style feasts, serve straight from the baking dish for rustic charm. Hosting a dinner party? Spoon individual portions into ramekins and top each with a touch of extra cheese before broiling for a gorgeous golden crust. Or, use a round biscuit cutter to plate perfect circles of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food for an elegant twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food keep deliciously well in the fridge. Simply cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making leftovers a real treat.
Freezing
You can freeze fully baked (and cooled) scalloped potatoes for up to 2 months. Wrap the dish snugly in plastic wrap and foil, or portion into individual containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 to 25 minutes. For individual servings, a quick zap in the microwave works well—just add a splash of milk to keep things creamy. For a crisp top, uncover for the last few minutes in the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! Yukon Gold potatoes are a wonderful alternative, offering a naturally buttery flavor and an extra creamy texture. Just keep in mind that waxy potatoes may hold their shape a bit more than russets.
How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
Be sure to heat the milk and cream mixture gently and don’t let it boil. Adding the cheese off the heat and stirring until just melted prevents it from separating, ensuring a smooth, luscious sauce for your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food.
Can I add other ingredients to the layers?
Definitely! Try slipping in caramelized onions, cooked bacon, or even thin slices of ham between the potato layers for added flavor. Just be careful not to add too much moisture, as it can affect the creamy consistency.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. The results are still rich and delicious, so everyone can enjoy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food.
What’s the best way to slice potatoes evenly?
A mandoline slicer is your best friend for quick, uniform slices. If you don’t have one, a very sharp chef’s knife and a steady hand will do the job. Consistent thickness ensures the potatoes cook evenly and soak up all that cheesy sauce.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about sharing Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food with the people you love. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles and second helpings. Don’t hesitate—give it a try and savor every creamy, cheesy, heartwarming bite!
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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a rich and comforting side dish featuring layers of tender thinly sliced russet potatoes baked in a creamy cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and aromatic seasonings. Perfect as a hearty accompaniment to roasted meats or festive meals, this classic American casserole delivers ultimate comfort food satisfaction with its golden, bubbly cheese crust and velvety texture.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, forming a roux that will help thicken the sauce.
- Prepare cheese sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add 1 1/2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Layer potatoes and sauce: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and spread it evenly. Add the remaining potatoes as a second layer, then pour the remaining cheese sauce on top.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar and all of the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the layered potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Bake covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow potatoes to start softening.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and garnish: Let the scalloped potatoes sit for 10 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- Enhance flavor by adding caramelized onions or cooked bacon between potato layers.
- Yukon Gold potatoes can be substituted for a creamier texture.
- Pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a crisp green salad.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
