BEST CHEESY SCALLOPED POTATOES EVER

Imagine layers of tender potatoes swimming in a velvety, cheese-laden sauce, bubbling to golden perfection in your oven. The craving for the ultimate comfort food stops here, my friend. Let’s make the most incredible Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes you’ve ever tasted, a guaranteed family favorite that’s easier than you think!

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (whole milk or 2% is best)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended!)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium, your preference!)
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional, but adds amazing flavor)

Optional Toppings:

• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Breadcrumbs (panko or regular), for a crispy topping

Let’s Talk Potatoes: The Star of the Show

Choosing the right potato is key to achieving that perfect, creamy texture we’re after. I highly recommend Yukon Gold potatoes for this recipe. They have a naturally buttery flavor and hold their shape beautifully without becoming mushy. Russet potatoes can also work, but they tend to release more starch, so rinse them well after slicing.

And speaking of slicing, aim for about 1/8 inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and that melt-in-your-mouth texture. A mandoline slicer can be a lifesaver here, but a sharp knife and a steady hand will do the trick too. Just take your time!

Crafting the Perfect Cheese Sauce

This is where the magic happens! A good cheese sauce is creamy, flavorful, and coats the potatoes beautifully. Don’t be intimidated – it’s easier than you think!

Start with a roux (butter and flour). This is the base of our sauce and helps thicken it. Make sure to cook the roux for a minute or two to get rid of that raw flour taste. Then, slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to stir constantly to avoid lumps. If you do get lumps, don’t panic! Just keep whisking vigorously, or use an immersion blender to smooth it out.

Once the sauce is smooth and thickened, season it with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that complements the cheese perfectly. Then, it’s time for the cheese! I like to use a combination of cheddar and Gruyere for a rich and complex flavor, but you can use whatever cheeses you love. Just make sure they’re good melting cheeses!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get Started:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
7. Stir in the cheddar and Gruyere cheeses until melted and smooth.

Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes:

1. In the prepared baking dish, layer one-third of the sliced potatoes, followed by one-third of the sliced onion and minced garlic.
2. Pour one-third of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and onion.
3. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of cheese sauce.

Bake:

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
3. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
4. Let the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips and Tricks for Cheesy Scalloped Potato Perfection

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure the potatoes are arranged in even layers. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
• Pre-Cook the Potatoes (Optional): If you’re short on time, you can parboil the potato slices for 5-7 minutes before assembling the casserole. This will help them cook faster in the oven.
• Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a little bit of Parmesan would be delicious.
• Add Some Spice: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the scalloped potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add about 15-20 minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the perfect side dish for just about any meal. They pair especially well with roasted chicken, ham, or beef. They’re also a great addition to any holiday feast. For a complete meal, you could even add some cooked ham or bacon to the potato layers before baking.

If you’re looking for other potato side dish ideas, you might also enjoy Cheesy Ranch Potatoes With Smoked Sausage or Hasselback Potatoes. For another cheesy potato casserole, try Potatoes Au Gratin or Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes. Or how about a unique take with French Onion Potatoes Au Gratin? And for a complete meal, check out Garlic Butter Beef Potatoes!

Variations to Try

• Ham and Cheese Scalloped Potatoes: Add diced ham between the layers of potatoes for a heartier dish.
• Jalapeño Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes: Add diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
• Smoked Gouda Scalloped Potatoes: Use smoked Gouda cheese in place of some of the cheddar for a smoky flavor.
• Vegetarian Scalloped Potatoes: Add sauteed mushrooms, spinach, or other vegetables to the potato layers.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in individual portions.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes as much as my family does. It’s a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and seasonings to create your own unique version. Happy cooking!