Irresistible Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe to Adore

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There’s something magical about the aroma of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes wafting through the kitchen. Imagine layers of tender potatoes melting in your mouth, blanketed in a creamy cheese sauce that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. The golden-brown edges, crispy and inviting, promise a flavor explosion that will leave you yearning for more.

I remember the first time I made Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for my family during Thanksgiving. My cousin tried to sneak a second helping before dinner even started! It was an instant hit, and now it’s a must-have for every family gathering. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience filled with laughter, love, and perhaps a few too many helps at the table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions
  • The rich flavors combine perfectly to create a heavenly side dish that pairs well with almost anything
  • Visually stunning with its golden crust and creamy interior, this dish is sure to impress guests at any gathering
  • Versatile enough to customize with different cheeses or herbs based on your preference!

Whenever I serve these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, my friends’ faces light up as they dig inβ€”it’s pure joy on their plates.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Potatoes: Opt for starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds for optimal creaminess.

  • Heavy Cream: Choose full-fat cream for a rich, velvety texture that enhances flavor.

  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best; it adds depth of flavor and great melting qualities.

  • Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness and add a rich buttery taste.

  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic depth; feel free to adjust according to your preference.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skimp on these basicsβ€”they make all the difference!

  • Thyme (optional): Fresh thyme elevates the flavor profile; sprinkle some in if you’re feeling fancy!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Grab a large casserole dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray so those cheesy potatoes don’t stick.

Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel about 3-4 medium-sized potatoes. Slice them thinlyβ€”aim for around 1/8-inch thickβ€”so they cook evenly and soak up that creamy goodness.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sautΓ© until fragrantβ€”this usually takes about 1 minute. Pour in 2 cups of heavy cream while stirring continuously until combined.

Add Cheese: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme if desired. Remove from heat once everything feels wonderfully gooey.

Layer Everything Up: In your prepared casserole dish, layer half your potato slices at the bottom. Pour half of the cheese sauce over them, then repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauceβ€”trust me; this layering is key!

Bake Until Golden: Cover the dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes so those cheesy scalloped potatoes can develop that irresistible golden crust we all crave!

When you pull out your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes from the oven, let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow those layers of flavor to settle beautifully together.

And there you have it! Now you’re ready to impress everyone at dinner parties or cozy family meals with this delightful dish that brings everyone together around the table!

You Must Know

  • Cheesy scalloped potatoes are creamy, dreamy, and make an unforgettable side dish
  • The aroma of baked cheese and potatoes wafting through your home is pure comfort
  • Perfect for holidays or cozy dinners, this dish never fails to impress guests or family

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by layering thinly sliced potatoes with cheese and sauce, then bake until golden brown and bubbly. This sequence ensures even cooking and that delicious cheesy texture everyone loves.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for unique flavors. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350Β°F until warmed through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfectly cheesy scalloped potatoes, make sure your potato slices are uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking
  • Don’t skimp on the cheese; a generous layer makes all the difference
  • Let the dish rest after baking to set the layers before serving

Sharing cheesy scalloped potatoes at family gatherings always brings smiles; they disappear faster than you can say β€œseconds, please!”

FAQs

FAQ

How do I prevent my scalloped potatoes from being watery?

Using starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold helps absorb excess moisture during baking.

Can I prepare cheesy scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them a day before and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What’s the best way to slice potatoes for this recipe?

Use a mandoline for even slices, ensuring they cook uniformly and achieve that perfect texture.

Print
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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes


  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 8

Description

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, featuring layers of tender potatoes enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Baked to perfection, this dish boasts a golden-brown crust that adds a delightful crunch to each mouthful. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, these scalloped potatoes are sure to impress everyone at the table with their irresistible flavor and warmth.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium-sized Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and lightly grease a large casserole dish.
  2. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish.
  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sautΓ© garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
  4. Gradually whisk in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
  5. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potato layer. Repeat layering with remaining potatoes and sauce.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes; uncover for the last 15 minutes to brown the top.
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For added flavor, experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or incorporate herbs such as rosemary. Ensure even cooking by slicing potatoes uniformly using a mandoline.

Tags:

baked potatoes / cheesy recipes / Comfort food / creamy sauce / potato dishes / scalloped potatoes / thanksgiving sides

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