Imagine a dish that brings warmth and comfort, with layers of creamy potatoes smothered in gooey cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate side dish, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering. The aroma alone can turn even the grumpiest of guests into cheese-loving advocates.
If you’ve ever attended a potluck where cheesy scalloped potatoes made an appearance, you know that this dish has the magical power to create smiles and second servings. Picture this: it’s Thanksgiving, and you’re surrounded by loved ones as you dive into a bubbling casserole dish filled with cheesy goodness. Trust me; your taste buds are about to embark on an unforgettable journey!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cheesy scalloped potatoes are easy to prepare, making them perfect for any home cook.
- The rich flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- With their tempting golden crust and creamy interior, they are irresistibly delicious.
- Versatile enough to accompany any main dish or shine on their own at gatherings.
I remember the first time I made cheesy scalloped potatoes for my family; my kids practically danced around the kitchen when they caught a whiff of that cheesy aroma wafting through the air.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Russet Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes for a creamy texture that holds up well during baking.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness and ensures your sauce is perfectly luscious.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that packs a punch.
Butter: A little bit of butter enhances flavor and helps create that lovely golden crust.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder adds depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together beautifully.
Onion (optional): Thinly sliced onion can provide extra flavor if you’re feeling adventurous!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, wash and peel your russet potatoes; then slice them thinly for even cooking.
Create Your Creamy Base: In a bowl, combine heavy cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk until well mixed; the aroma should be heavenly already.
Layer It Up!: In a greased baking dish, layer half of your potato slices evenly across the bottom. Pour half of your cream mixture over them, followed by a generous handful of sharp cheddar cheese.
Repeat Layers Like You Mean It!: Add another layer of remaining potato slices on top. Drizzle over the remaining cream mixture and finish with more cheddar cheese—don’t skimp here!
Bake Until Golden Bliss!: Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Let It Rest (If You Can Wait): Once out of the oven, allow your cheesy scalloped potatoes to cool for about 10 minutes before serving—this helps everything set nicely.
Now picture yourself serving these decadent cheesy scalloped potatoes at dinner. Family members will be eagerly scooping heaping portions onto their plates while asking how you managed such culinary magic! Each bite will be met with satisfied nods of approval as they dive into layers of creamy goodness.
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are not just food; they’re an experience waiting to happen! Whether you save some for later or deal with hungry relatives scraping their plates clean is entirely up to you. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a comforting dish that pairs well with almost any meal.
- The creamy layers and crispy top create an irresistible texture that everyone loves.
- Elevate your dinner table with this rich, flavorful side that will have guests asking for seconds.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by peeling and slicing the potatoes evenly, then layer them in a greased baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over each layer for even distribution, ensuring a delightful cheesy experience throughout.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheddar for Gruyère or add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor. You could also toss in cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist that’ll make your taste buds dance.
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, allowing the cheese to get all melty again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cheesy scalloped potatoes, ensure even slicing of potatoes; this guarantees uniform cooking.
- Use freshly grated cheese; it melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
- Always let the dish rest before serving; this helps it set and makes serving easier.
Sharing cheesy scalloped potatoes with friends during chilly evenings is pure joy—it warms hearts and sparks laughter around the table.
FAQ
What type of potatoes work best for cheesy scalloped potatoes?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their starchiness and creaminess when cooked.
Can I make cheesy scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a day ahead and bake just before serving for convenience.
How do I prevent my scalloped potatoes from being watery?
Make sure to slice your potatoes thinly and drain excess liquid before layering them in your dish.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Indulge in the creamy delight of cheesy scalloped potatoes, a perfect side dish for family dinners or festive gatherings. Layers of tender russet potatoes are enveloped in rich heavy cream and topped with sharp cheddar cheese, creating a golden, bubbly masterpiece that will have everyone coming back for more. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to complement any main dish, this recipe guarantees smiles and second helpings at your table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Russet Potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 ½ cups Heavy Cream
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 3 tbsp Butter
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Pepper
- 1 small Onion (optional), thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Layer half of the potato slices in the baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over them and sprinkle with 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Add another layer of potato slices, drizzle with remaining cream mixture, and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Swap out cheddar cheese for Gruyère or add cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist.
