Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the warm, gooey hug of comfort food that we all crave. Imagine layers of thinly sliced potatoes nestled in a rich, creamy sauce, with cheese bubbling and golden on top. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making everyone forget about their troubles as they gather around the table with anticipation.
This dish is perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just a cozy night in when you need a little extra love on your plate. I still remember the first time I made them for my friends; their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. The laughter and compliments floated around the room like confetti, and I knew then that cheesy scalloped potatoes had earned their place in my recipe repertoire.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cheesy scalloped potatoes are a breeze to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd
- The rich flavor profile combines creamy cheese with buttery potatoes for an irresistible treat
- Visually stunning, they make any dinner party feel special without much effort
- Versatile enough to complement any main dish or stand alone as a meal
I made these cheesy scalloped potatoes for my best friend’s birthday, and seeing her face light up was priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Russet Potatoes: Choose firm potatoes that are good for baking; they create the perfect creamy texture.
Heavy Cream: Opt for full-fat cream to ensure a rich, velvety sauce that clings to the potatoes.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese for a bold flavor; it melts beautifully and adds depth.
Onions: Sweet onions add flavor; slice them thinly so they cook evenly in the oven.
Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses wonderful aromas; chop it finely to maximize its impact in the dish.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control seasoning while adding richness that enhances every layer.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring balance; be generous but taste as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures an even bake and perfectly melted cheese at the end.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier later on.
Slice Those Potatoes!: Thinly slice your russet potatoes using a mandoline or sharp knife until they are about 1/8 inch thick. Consistent slices help them cook evenly.
Sauté Onions & Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add sliced onions and sauté until they soften and become translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in minced garlic for another minute.
Create That Creamy Sauce!: In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, salt, pepper, and half of the grated cheddar cheese until well combined. This is where the magic happens!
Add Layers of Flavor: Begin layering your potato slices in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the creamy mixture over them before adding another layer of potatoes followed by remaining cream and cheese on top.
Bake Until Golden Brown!: Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil during the last 15 minutes so that glorious golden crust forms on top.
Enjoy these cheesy scalloped potatoes hot out of the oven with friends or family as you reminisce about cherished moments around food!
You Must Know
- Cheesy scalloped potatoes are not just a side dish; they steal the show!
- The creamy, cheesy goodness mixed with tender potatoes creates a comforting meal that everyone loves
- Just remember to let them rest before serving for perfect layers and flavors
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Slice the potatoes thinly for even cooking, and layer them with cheese and cream. Bake uncovered until golden brown and bubbling—about 45 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cheese for your favorites, like Gruyère or cheddar. You can also add garlic or herbs for extra flavor. Mixing in some sautéed onions or bacon gives a delightful twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, just pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through—about 20 minutes will do.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For creamy perfection, use a mix of heavy cream and milk
- Don’t skip the resting time; it helps flavors meld beautifully
- Finally, always taste your cheese before adding it to ensure maximum deliciousness!
My friends still talk about the time I made cheesy scalloped potatoes for Thanksgiving. They were so good that my aunt almost started a food fight over the last serving!
FAQ
Can I make cheesy scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, assemble everything ahead of time and bake just before serving.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes hold up well and create a creamy texture.
How do I prevent my scalloped potatoes from being watery?
Ensure you slice the potatoes thinly and don’t add too much liquid; less is more!
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6-8 people 1x
Description
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, featuring layers of tender potatoes enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll create a warm and inviting side dish that brings everyone together around the table.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Russet potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter; sauté onions for 5 minutes, then add garlic for another minute.
- In a bowl, combine heavy cream, salt, pepper, and half the cheddar cheese.
- Layer potato slices in the baking dish; pour half of the creamy mixture over the first layer. Repeat with remaining potatoes and cream mixture.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes; remove foil during the last 15 minutes to brown the top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
