Introduction
Is there anything more comforting than a bubbling dish of potatoes and cheese straight from the oven? I think not. This classic side dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, and I am so excited to share my definitive version with you today. I can say with complete confidence that These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! They are the creamy, dreamy, and utterly indulgent centerpiece your holiday table or Sunday supper has been missing.
So, what makes These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! so special? This recipe elevates the humble potato into a luxurious casserole with a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. While many recipes can be bland or watery, this version guarantees a rich, velvety sauce that clings to every single slice of potato. The secret lies in a from-scratch cheese sauce, a blend of sharp cheddar and nutty Gruyère, which creates incredible depth. This dish is a true testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients, a philosophy central to our blog. It’s the kind of reliable, show-stopping side that pairs beautifully with a simple herb-roasted chicken or a grand holiday ham, making it a versatile star for any menu. Because it bakes up with a gorgeous golden top and a tender, creamy interior, it is always the first dish to be completely devoured at any gathering.
Why I Love This Recipe
I absolutely love this recipe because it is my ultimate comfort food. It reminds me of big family dinners at my grandmother’s house, where her scalloped potatoes were legendary. Although I’ve tweaked her original method slightly, this dish still brings that same overwhelming feeling of warmth and togetherness. I adore how the aroma of garlic and cheese fills my entire kitchen, signaling that something incredibly delicious is on its way. Every time I make it, I know I’m creating a new memory around the table.
Health and Nutrition
Why it’s good for your body
These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! because they deliver essential nutrients in a delicious package. Potatoes provide a fantastic source of potassium, which supports heart health and proper muscle function. They also offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, so you feel full and satisfied longer. Although this is a comfort food, it includes calcium-rich dairy for building strong bones and teeth.
Furthermore, the cheese and milk contribute high-quality protein for muscle repair and maintenance. This makes the dish more sustaining and balanced, even though it tastes incredibly indulgent. These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! while also being a naturally gluten-free option. Because they are made from simple, whole ingredients, you avoid processed additives and preservatives. So you can enjoy this delicious meal knowing you are nourishing your body with essential vitamins and minerals.
How it fits in a healthy lifestyle
These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! as part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in appropriate portions. Pair a sensible serving with a lean protein like grilled chicken and a crisp green salad for a complete, nutritious meal. This approach ensures you get a wide range of nutrients while still enjoying classic, comforting flavors.
For those with specific dietary needs, this dish is naturally gluten-free and can easily fit into a vegetarian lifestyle. To make it even healthier, consider using low-fat milk or a sharp, flavorful cheese so you can use less without sacrificing taste. For more ideas on balancing your meals, explore our guide to creating a balanced plate. Remember, healthy eating includes enjoying the foods you love. This recipe works perfectly for a Sunday family dinner or a special holiday gathering. If you’re looking for a complementary main course, our herb-roasted chicken is a fantastic, healthy option that pairs beautifully.
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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 105 mins
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
If you don’t want ooey gooey cheese covering every single nook and cranny of your scalloped potatoes then look away. These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection!
Ingredients
- 4 russet potatoes, (peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (about 2 pounds))
- 1 yellow onion, (sliced into rings)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups whole milk, (room temperature)
- 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese, (shredded)
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Arrange the potatoes and onions in the prepared baking dish, staggering potato and then onion.
- In a medium-size saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Mix in the flour and salt, and stir constantly with a whisk for one minute. Stir in milk. Cook until mixture has thickened.
- Stir in cheese all at once, and continue stirring until melted and smooth, about 30-60 seconds.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes, and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 85-90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- For a crisp topping, change the oven setting to broil after the potatoes are baked. Broil until golden brown.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve.
Notes
For best results, slice potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking. The potatoes are done when easily pierced with a fork. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 90 mins
- Method: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 346
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 12
- Cholesterol: 45
Steps and time-saving tips
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously butter your baking dish. Next, use a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife to slice your potatoes uniformly thin; this step is crucial for even cooking. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking it for just one minute until it’s fragrant. Gradually whisk in the warm milk until your sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened. Then, remove the saucepan from the heat and vigorously stir in most of your shredded cheese until it melts into a glorious, velvety sauce. Now, begin layering half of your potato slices in the prepared dish, season them well with salt and pepper, and drizzle half of the cheesy sauce over the top. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes and sauce. Finally, cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil, top with the reserved cheese, and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. For a time-saving tip, you can slice the potatoes up to a day ahead and keep them completely submerged in cold water in the refrigerator. Additionally, letting These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! rest for 10-15 minutes before serving allows the sauce to set perfectly for slicing.
Mistakes I’ve made and learned from
I have absolutely learned the hard way that uneven potato slices are the enemy of a perfect bake. My first attempt resulted in a frustrating mix of mushy and crunchy potatoes, which was such a disappointment. I also made the classic mistake of using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that prevent my sauce from becoming as luxuriously smooth as it should be. Now, I always take the extra minute to shred a block of good quality cheese myself; the difference in meltability is incredible. Furthermore, I never skip the resting time anymore. Cutting in too early causes the sauce to run everywhere instead of holding its beautiful, creamy layers. Patience truly is the final, secret ingredient for ensuring These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! For more on getting your timing right, check out my other kitchen lessons.
