Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe: Creamy, Comforting & Delicious

Introduction

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, intertwining layers of tender potatoes with rich, creamy cheese sauce. This delightful dish brings warmth and hospitality to any meal, making it an ideal accompaniment for family dinners or holiday feasts. The combination of russet potatoes, heavy cream, and sharp cheddar creates a luscious texture and flavor that pleases everyone at the table.

In this article, we’ll explore why you should make this recipe, provide a step-by-step guide on how to create these delicious cheesy scalloped potatoes, and share tips for serving, storing, and enhancing this dish. Let’s dive into the mouthwatering world of cheesy scalloped potatoes!

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make cheesy scalloped potatoes. First and foremost, they are unbelievably tasty and satisfying. The rich, cheesy layers provide a delightful contrast to the tender, roasted potato slices. Moreover, this dish is highly versatile; it pairs well with roast meats, grilled chicken, and even as a standalone vegetarian meal.

Another great reason to make cheesy scalloped potatoes is that they are perfect for gatherings. This dish is easy to prepare in advance, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones while still serving up a dish that looks and tastes incredible. Plus, the comforting aroma of cheesy potatoes baking in the oven is bound to draw everyone to the table!

Whether you are hosting a dinner party, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a comforting side dish, cheesy scalloped potatoes are the answer.

Cheesy scalloped potatoes served in a baking dish with a golden-brown crust.

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Making cheesy scalloped potatoes from scratch is simple and rewarding! Follow this step-by-step guide to whip up a dish that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

To create this rich and creamy masterpiece, gather the following ingredients:

  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 3 cups heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Fresh chives, chopped for garnish

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

  • Large saucepan
  • Baking dish
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Whisk
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Aluminum foil

Directions

Follow these straightforward steps to create cheesy scalloped potatoes that are sure to delight:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your potatoes bake evenly.
  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Prepare the Cream Mixture: Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and paprika into the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then remove it from the heat. This rich cream sauce is what gives your scalloped potatoes a heavenly taste.
  4. Layer the Ingredients: Grease the baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Begin layering the ingredients: place a layer of the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish, followed by a portion of the cream mixture and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan. Repeat this process until you run out of potatoes, finishing with a generous topping of cheese on top.
  5. Bake with Foil: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes.
  6. Add Browning: After 60 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes. This step allows the cheese to become bubbly and golden brown while the potatoes finish cooking.
  7. Serve: Once ready, take the baking dish out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes, and then garnish with fresh chopped chives before serving.

How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. They pair wonderfully with various main dishes, including:

  • Roast Chicken: The creamy potatoes balance the savory flavors of roast chicken beautifully.
  • Grilled Steak: A hearty steak with cheesy scalloped potatoes offers a satisfying and timeless meal.
  • Glazed Ham: The richness of the potatoes complements the sweetness of glazed ham perfectly.
  • Simple Green Salad: If you want something lighter, serve the cheesy potatoes alongside a fresh green salad.

Feel free to serve these potatoes as a satisfying side dish or even turn them into a light main course by adding a side of steamed vegetables.

How to Store Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Leftovers are delicious and easy to store! To ensure your cheesy scalloped potatoes stay fresh, follow these simple tips:

  • Refrigeration: Allow the leftovers to cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scalloped potatoes in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, though the texture might not be as creamy.
Close-up of cheesy scalloped potatoes showing creamy layers and melted cheese.

Tips to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

  1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like russets, as they become tender and creamy when cooked.
  2. Slice Evenly: Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
  3. Experiment with Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is amazing, feel free to blend in other cheeses like Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
  4. Add Spice: Consider adding spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper for an extra kick and depth of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Under-cooking the Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are thinly sliced and cooked long enough to become soft. If they remain undercooked, they will be crunchy and raw in the center.
  2. Not Using Enough Cream: Too little cream can lead to dry potatoes, so be generous with the sauce to ensure each layer gets enough moisture.
  3. Neglecting to Cover: Covering the dish with foil during the first half of baking prevents the cheese from burning and allows the potatoes to steam and soften.

Variations and Customizations

  • Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding sliced mushrooms, spinach, or even broccoli for an added nutritional boost.
  • Meaty Flair: Add cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham for a meaty version of your scalloped potatoes.
  • Spice it Up: Introduce jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce into the cream mixture for a spicy twist.

Serving Suggestions

These cheesy scalloped potatoes shine when paired with a variety of main dishes. Serve them alongside:

  • Herb-roasted turkey
  • Barbecue ribs
  • Baked cod with lemon
  • A simple vegetable stir-fry for a lighter option

Nutritional Information

Here is a general idea of the nutritional information per serving (based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 410
  • Total Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 12g

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you find yourself with an abundance of cheesy scalloped potatoes, you can freeze them for later enjoyment:

  • Freezing: To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Cut into portions and wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place the wrapped portions in an airtight freezer-safe container. Cheesy scalloped potatoes can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
  • Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
 A serving of cheesy scalloped potatoes garnished with fresh chives on a plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making scalloped potatoes?
Avoid undercooking the potatoes, slicing them unevenly, or using too little cream. Also, don’t skip covering the dish during baking to ensure tender, creamy results.

What’s the difference between scalloped and au gratin potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes are cooked in a creamy sauce, while au gratin potatoes include cheese and often breadcrumbs for a crispy, golden topping.

How do you make Paula Deen’s scalloped potatoes?
Paula Deen’s scalloped potatoes typically feature thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich cream sauce with lots of cheese, butter, and seasonings for extra flavor.

What is the one trick Michael Symon uses to make perfect scalloped potatoes?
Michael Symon uses a mix of starchy potatoes and evenly slices them thinly to ensure they cook evenly, creating perfectly tender and creamy scalloped potatoes.

Conclusion

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are more than just a side dish; they are a comforting dish that brings people together. With their creamy layers, rich flavors, and delightful textures, they make any meal feel special. Follow this recipe to create a dish that not only pleases the palate but also warms the heart. Remember, the joy of cooking is not just about the food; it’s also about the moments shared around the table.

Explore More Delicious Recipes

If you loved this recipe, be sure to explore more delightful creations such as:

Enjoy your culinary adventure and happy cooking!

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