Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, enveloping tender layers of potatoes in a creamy, cheesy embrace. Picture this: golden-brown edges, bubbling cheese, and that irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds, inviting you to dive in with a fork before the dish even hits the table.
Growing up, my family’s holiday gatherings always featured cheesy scalloped potatoes. The anticipation would build as we waited for that first bite, when the creamy goodness melted in our mouths. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this dish never fails to impress and satisfy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a breeze to prepare and perfect for any occasion
- The layers of gooey cheese create an eye-catching presentation on your dinner table
- This dish is versatile enough to pair with any main course or stand alone as a comforting meal
- With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to become a family favorite
I remember one Thanksgiving when my cousin insisted he could outdo my recipe. Let’s just say his version ended up more like a potato brick than the creamy delight we all know and love.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Potatoes: I prefer Yukon Gold for their buttery flavor and creamy texture; they hold up beautifully when baked.
Heavy Cream: Full-fat cream adds richness and ensures every bite is decadently creamy; don’t skimp here!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese for best meltability; it brings that wonderful sharpness.
Unsalted Butter: Ideal for sautéing and adding flavor without overwhelming the dish with salt.
Garlic Powder: Elevates the flavor profile without any peeling or chopping—what’s not to love?
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all those wonderful flavors coming together.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Potatoes: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and slice your potatoes into thin rounds—aim for about 1/8 inch thick—for optimal creaminess.
Sauté the Base: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt some butter until it’s bubbly. Add garlic powder along with salt and pepper, stirring until fragrant—about 30 seconds will do!
Create Your Sauce: Slowly pour in heavy cream while whisking continuously. Keep an eye out for small bubbles forming along the edges; this means it’s ready!
Add Layers of Goodness: In a greased baking dish, layer half of your sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom. Pour half of your creamy sauce over this layer before repeating with remaining potatoes and sauce.
Top It Off: Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top layer. Trust me; this is where magic happens as it melts into bubbly perfection!
Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes to let that cheesy crust develop its glorious golden color.
Now, as you wait those agonizing 45 minutes (which may feel like an eternity), imagine how satisfied you will be once you dig into this cheesy goodness! The aroma will fill your kitchen, making you wonder how something so simple can be so utterly divine.
Once done baking, let your cheesy scalloped potatoes rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set beautifully and makes it easier to serve those perfect slices.
When you finally take that first bite, expect an explosion of flavor as creamy layers dance across your palate! This comforting classic pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or stands strong as a star on its own at any gathering.
With cheesy scalloped potatoes on your table, you’re not just serving food; you’re sharing warmth and joy that brings everyone together around one delicious dish!
You Must Know
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a comforting classic that elevates any meal
- The creamy texture and gooey cheese make for a delightful experience, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
- Don’t forget to layer those potatoes for even cooking!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Slice your potatoes evenly, then layer them with cheese and cream. Bake until bubbly and golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyère or add garlic for an extra flavor boost. Fresh herbs can elevate your dish, making it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm and cheesy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, slice your potatoes uniformly for even cooking
- Always use heavy cream for maximum creaminess, and let the dish rest before serving to set properly
- These tips guarantee a dish that impresses every time!
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of family dinners where Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes stole the show; my grandma’s secret was always using love as an ingredient.
FAQ
What type of potatoes work best for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor for this recipe.
Can I prepare Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them and refrigerate before baking; just add extra baking time.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken your creamy sauce.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the epitome of comfort food, offering layers of tender potatoes enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese. This beloved dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, sure to impress every palate. With golden-brown edges and an irresistible aroma, it invites you to indulge in its decadent goodness.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and slice potatoes into 1/8-inch rounds.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Slowly whisk in heavy cream until heated through.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the potatoes, pour half the sauce over them, then repeat.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes; uncover for the last 15 minutes to brown the cheese.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
