Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, featuring layers of tender potatoes enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Whether served as a holiday side dish or a weeknight treat, this classic recipe is always a crowd-pleaser. Follow this step-by-step guide to create the most delicious homemade scalloped potatoes!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Creamy – A velvety cheese sauce coats every slice of potato.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – A comforting side dish for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners.
- Easy to Customize – Add different cheeses, seasonings, or proteins for variety.
Ingredients Breakdown
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Potatoes: The base of the dish, providing a tender and hearty texture.
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Butter & Flour: Create a roux to thicken the cheese sauce.
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Milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce.
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Cheddar Cheese: Gives a rich, sharp flavor.
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Salt & Cayenne Pepper: Enhance the taste with a bit of warmth.
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Paprika: Adds a hint of smoky flavor and a pop of color.
Tips and Tricks
- Slice Potatoes Evenly – Use a mandoline for uniform thickness and even cooking.
- Extra Creaminess – Substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
- Prevent Over-Browning – Cover with foil for the first 30 minutes, then remove for a crispy top.
Variations and Customizations
- Cheese Lovers – Mix in Parmesan, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.
- Garlic Flavor – Add minced garlic or garlic powder to the sauce.
- Loaded Version – Top with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions.
Pairing Suggestions
- Main Dishes: Roast chicken, glazed ham, or grilled steak.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed green beans, or a fresh garden salad.
- Breads: Serve with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven until creamy and hot.
Popular Questions
Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.
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What’s the best potato for scalloped potatoes?
Yukon Golds provide a creamy texture, while Russets yield a fluffier consistency.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux or reduce the milk slightly.
Print
Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked, these scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food side dish. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes are smothered in a rich cheddar cheese sauce and baked until golden and bubbly.
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Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 dash cayenne pepper
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup additional grated cheese for topping
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour until smooth.
- Let the mixture cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually add cold milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Season with salt and cayenne pepper.
- Continue cooking on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and starts to boil.
- Reduce heat and stir in 1 cup of grated cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 2: Assemble the Dish
- Lightly grease a one-quart casserole dish.
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the dish.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated cheese over the top.
- Lightly dust with paprika for a golden, appetizing finish.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for about 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- For a crispy topping, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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