Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a warm, creamy hug for your taste buds, each layer lovingly embracing the next. Picture golden slices of potato swimming in rich, cheesy goodness, bubbling away in the oven like a deliciously indulgent potion. roasted chicken recipe creamy chicken casserole. For more inspiration, check out this Croissant Breakfast Casserole recipe.
Every bite brings a symphony of flavors—savory, buttery, and oh-so-cheesy. This dish shines at family gatherings and holiday feasts, turning any meal into a memorable occasion filled with laughter and joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy scalloped potatoes offer comfort food at its finest with minimal prep time
- The melty cheese creates a delightful crust that keeps everyone coming back for seconds
- Visually stunning with layers of creamy potatoes, it’s perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties
- Plus, this recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs
I remember the first time I made cheesy scalloped potatoes; my friends devoured them like they were gold nuggets, asking for the secret recipe! spring pea soup.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Russet Potatoes: These starchy beauties create the perfect texture; choose medium-sized ones for even cooking.
Heavy Cream: Opt for full-fat cream to ensure that luxurious richness in every bite.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds depth; feel free to mix in Gruyère if you’re feeling fancy.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds flavor; sauté until translucent for the best results.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic punch; use minced cloves for maximum flavor impact.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness and enhance that creamy texture.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all those delicious flavors; adjust to taste.
Paprika: A sprinkle of paprika adds color and a subtle kick; smoked paprika works wonderfully too!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Those Potatoes: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and thinly slice your Russet potatoes using a mandoline or sharp knife for even cooking.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add finely chopped onion. Sauté until soft and translucent, then stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
Create Your Creamy Mixture: In a bowl, combine heavy cream with salt, pepper, and paprika. Whisk well until blended—this will be your magic sauce!
Layer It Up!: In a greased baking dish, arrange half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Pour half of the creamy mixture over them and sprinkle with cheese. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients. For more inspiration, check out this Butternut Squash Mac Cheese recipe.
Bake It to Perfection: Cover with foil and bake for about 45 minutes until bubbly. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown on top—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Cool and Serve!: Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving so that all those cheesy layers can meld perfectly together. Slice into squares and serve warm!
Now you have an incredible dish that’s bound to impress! Enjoy your cheesy scalloped potatoes alongside roasted meats or simply on their own as the star of your dinner table!
You Must Know
- Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy texture with cheesy goodness
- Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish is sure to impress
- The aroma of baking potatoes and melting cheese fills your kitchen, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing the potatoes evenly; this ensures they cook uniformly. Layer them with cheese and cream mixture, then bake until golden and bubbly for best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheeses or add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor. Bacon bits or caramelized onions also make delightful additions.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always choose starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamier texture
- Make sure to season each layer well; it enhances flavors throughout the dish
- Let your dish rest after baking for easier slicing and serving
It’s funny how my first attempt at cheesy scalloped potatoes ended with a small kitchen disaster but also a lesson learned about patience and seasoning!
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese in cheesy scalloped potatoes?
Absolutely! Try Gruyère, cheddar, or even blue cheese for different flavors.
How do I prevent my potatoes from turning brown before cooking?
Soak sliced potatoes in cold water until ready to use; it keeps them fresh and bright.
Can I make cheesy scalloped potatoes in advance?
Yes! Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate; just add extra baking time when cooking.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, featuring layers of tender potatoes smothered in rich, gooey cheese and cream. This dish is perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts, transforming any gathering into a memorable occasion. With minimal prep time and customizable ingredients, you can easily make this recipe your own. Experience the delightful aroma and taste of cheesy goodness that will have everyone going back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, pour half of the creamy mixture over them, then sprinkle with cheese. Repeat the layers with remaining ingredients.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes until bubbly. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor, mix different cheeses such as Gruyère or include herbs like rosemary or thyme. You can add crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions for extra depth. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.