Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of homemade scalloped potatoes with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions, these cheesy scalloped potatoes are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through every step of the cooking process, from selecting the perfect potatoes to achieving the ultimate cheesy perfection. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this irresistible comfort food favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are scalloped potatoes? A: Scalloped potatoes are a classic side dish made with thinly sliced potatoes that are layered with a creamy sauce and baked until tender and golden brown.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe? A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack cheese can all be delicious alternatives to cheddar.
Q: Can I prepare scalloped potatoes in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the scalloped potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover the dish tightly with foil to prevent the potatoes from drying out.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a smooth paste, known as a roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, if using.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly.
- Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese sauce on top.
Step 4: Bake the Scalloped Potatoes
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown and become bubbly.
- Once baked, remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Ham or Bacon: For added flavor, layer cooked ham or crispy bacon between the potato slices.
- Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist on this classic dish.
- Add Herbs: Stir in chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
Keto Versions and Low-Carb Options:
- Replace Potatoes: Substitute thinly sliced cauliflower or turnips for the potatoes to create a low-carb version of this dish.
- Use Almond Flour: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to thicken the cheese sauce in a keto-friendly way.
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a comforting and satisfying side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving some classic comfort food, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its creamy cheese sauce and tender potato slices, it’s bound to become a family favorite in no time. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of homemade scalloped potatoes!
