How to Create Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: A Simple Guide for Everyone
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. They’re creamy, cheesy, and packed with delicious flavors that make them a favorite at family dinners, holiday celebrations, and potlucks. While they might look fancy, scalloped potatoes are surprisingly easy to make. In this blog, we’ll walk you step by step through creating cheesy scalloped potatoes using simple ingredients and straightforward methods. Let’s get started!
What Are Scalloped Potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes are thin slices of potatoes baked in a creamy sauce until bubbly and golden brown. Add cheese to the mix, and you’ve got cheesy scalloped potatoes—a dish no one can resist! The buttery potato slices soak up the cheesy, creamy sauce as they bake, creating a rich, satisfying side dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here are the simple ingredients for cheesy scalloped potatoes:
- 4–6 medium potatoes (russet or Yukon Gold work best)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk makes it creamier)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix cheeses)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or a little butter for greasing your dish
You may already have these ingredients in your kitchen! If not, they’re easy to find at any grocery store.
Tools You’ll Need
- A sharp knife or mandoline slicer (to slice the potatoes thinly)
- A medium saucepan (for making the cheese sauce)
- A whisk (to stir the sauce)
- A baking dish (to layer the potatoes)
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s dive into the process of making cheesy scalloped potatoes. Don’t worry—it’s simpler than you think!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your scalloped potatoes cook evenly as you prepare and layer them.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into thin rounds (about ⅛-inch thick). You want them thin enough to cook evenly but not so thin that they fall apart. Use a mandoline slicer for consistent slices, or carefully cut with a sharp knife.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Now for the magic! In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously. This should create a smooth paste called a roux. Cook the roux for about 1–2 minutes to remove the taste of raw flour, ensuring your sauce isn’t lumpy.
Gradually pour in the 2 cups of milk while whisking. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, which usually takes 3–5 minutes. Once thickened, add the shredded cheese—saving about ½ cup to sprinkle on top later. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce. Add garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Layer the Potatoes
Lightly grease your baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Spread a thin layer of cheese sauce on the bottom. Add a single layer of potato slices on top of the sauce, arranging them so they slightly overlap.
Pour a small amount of cheese sauce over the potato layer, spreading it evenly. Repeat layering potatoes and cheese sauce until all the potatoes are used. End with a generous drizzle of cheese sauce on top.
For extra cheesiness, sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of shredded cheese over the final layer.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook and absorb the creamy sauce. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes uncovered. This helps the top layer brown nicely and develop a golden, cheesy crust.
Pro tip: If the top isn’t browning enough, turn on your broiler for 2–3 minutes to finish. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once baked, let the cheesy scalloped potatoes rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve. Slice, scoop, and enjoy this rich and indulgent dish!
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are starchy and make the dish creamy, while Yukon Gold potatoes are buttery and hold their shape better. Both work beautifully!
- Use Fresh Cheese: Grating your own cheese (instead of pre-shredded) creates a smoother sauce because pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents.
- Experiment with Flavors: You can add cooked bacon, chopped onions, or a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.
Why Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Are Perfect for Any Occasion
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a crowd-pleaser. They pair wonderfully with meats like ham, chicken, or roast beef and can stand alone as a vegetarian dish. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or treating yourself, this recipe is comforting and delicious.
Go ahead and give these cheesy scalloped potatoes a try! With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that will impress your friends and family. Don’t forget to share your results and enjoy every bite. Happy cooking!
