Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy and Cheesy Comfort

Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy and Cheesy Comfort 🥔🧀

These Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with gooey, melted cheese. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving something warm and indulgent, this classic dish is simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. With its buttery, cheesy goodness, it’s a side dish that steals the show.

Let’s dive into how to make these creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy & Cheesy : A luscious sauce and melty cheese make every bite irresistible.
2. Comfort Food Classic : A timeless dish that’s perfect for cozy meals.
3. Customizable : Add herbs, spices, or mix-ins like bacon or onions for variety.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly : Prep ahead and bake when ready, making it ideal for busy days or entertaining.
5. Crowd-Pleasing : Great for potlucks, holidays, or family dinners.

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

• 2 ½ lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes , peeled and thinly sliced (about ¼-inch thick )
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness )
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice )
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth )
• Salt and black pepper , to taste
• Fresh parsley , chopped (optional, for garnish )

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter .
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute , whisking constantly to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk (or cream ), ensuring no lumps remain. Cook for 3–5 minutes , stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in ½ cup of the cheddar cheese , ½ cup of the Parmesan cheese , garlic powder , onion powder , smoked paprika (if using ), salt , and pepper . Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes

1. Spread a thin layer of the cream sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes over the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
3. Drizzle a portion of the cream sauce over the potatoes and sprinkle with a bit of the remaining cheese.
4. Repeat the layers (potatoes, sauce, cheese ) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.

Step 4: Bake

1. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes .
2. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes , or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of these Scalloped Potatoes !

Tips for Success

1. Slice Evenly : Use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to ensure the potatoes are evenly sliced for consistent cooking.
2. Test for Doneness : Pierce the potatoes with a fork—they should be tender but not mushy.
3. Add Mix-Ins : Stir in cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions, or diced ham for extra flavor.
4. Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze unbaked portions of the dish (without cheese on top) for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding fresh cheese before serving.

Perfect Pairings

These Scalloped Potatoes pair beautifully with:

• Roasted Meats : Serve alongside roasted chicken, beef, or pork for a hearty meal.
• Green Salad : A crisp arugula or mixed greens salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Vegetables : Pair with broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
• Crusty Bread : Warm, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 8 servings)

• Calories : ~220 kcal
• Protein : ~8g
• Carbohydrates : ~25g
• Fat : ~12g
• Fiber : ~2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These Scalloped Potatoes are a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, bringing them to a holiday gathering, or simply craving something indulgent yet easy to make, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of tender potatoes, rich cream sauce, and gooey cheese creates a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to love.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the seasonings, add mix-ins, or pair it with different proteins to make it your own. So grab your potatoes, slice them thin, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.