Easy homemade cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe 2024.

“If you prefer your scalloped potatoes without a generous amount of gooey cheese coating every surface, then this recipe may not be for you. These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the epitome of perfection, with their rich and creamy cheese sauce. For those seeking an effortless meal, look no further than this simple Crock-Pot Scalloped Potato recipe. Additionally, if you enjoy hearty dishes, you might also appreciate my Potatoes Au Gratin with Smoked Sausage.”

In this recipe, a rich cream sauce is generously layered over thick-cut potato rounds. Using a mandolin ensures uniform potato slices each time. This cheesy scalloped potato dish is truly exceptional and easily the best I’ve ever tasted.

Scalloped potatoes are a delightful dish that shines as a holiday side but is just as fitting for any day of the week or a special Sunday dinner. This classic involves thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a creamy, garlic-infused mixture that thickens beautifully in the oven, creating layers of pure potato and cheese bliss. While layering the slices might appear daunting, this step-by-step guide makes assembling this impressive side dish a breeze. You’ll even find yourself with enough time to whip up some Deviled Eggs for your next gathering or feast!

Whether it’s a special occasion or a regular weekday, this cheesy potato casserole is a fantastic addition to your dinner repertoire. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone as a main course and pairs perfectly as a side for a larger gathering. The potatoes are cooked to perfection, tender yet firm, while the cheese topping is irresistibly gooey and delicately crispy.

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I’m certain these taste even more amazing! The standout feature of this recipe is the aged white cheddar cheese, which infuses the entire casserole with its rich, cheesy flavor, making it exceptionally indulgent.

“Differences Between Scalloped Potatoes and Au Gratin Potatoes”

“The confusion between scalloped potatoes and Au Gratin Potatoes stems from their striking similarity. To clarify, we’ve named our dish Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. This title reflects our approach of combining the most delightful aspects of both potato dishes.”

“A traditional scalloped potato dish typically includes sliced potatoes layered in a casserole dish and baked with a rich cream sauce and various herbs. In contrast, a traditional Au Gratin Potato dish features grated cheese sprinkled between the layers, resulting in a more indulgent, cheesy dish. While both dishes involve cutting the potatoes into rounds, scalloped potatoes are usually sliced slightly thicker than those used in au gratin potatoes.”

Potatoes au gratin are often considered more challenging to make than scalloped potatoes. However, by adding cheese to scalloped potatoes, you can achieve a similar rich and cheesy flavor profile reminiscent of potatoes au gratin without the additional complexity. For an added touch, consider incorporating breadcrumbs as well!

Ingredients:

I strongly believe in prioritizing quality over quantity, which is why I’ve crafted this recipe with a focus on minimal ingredients and maximum flavor. You’ll appreciate the simplicity and deliciousness of this dish—thank me later!

• Potatoes: Peeled and thinly sliced into 1/8-inch thick pieces.
• Milk: I recommend using 2% milk for the creamiest result.
• Butter: Unsalted.
• Flour: To thicken up the sauce a bit.
• Fresh Garlic: Minced.
• Fresh Thyme: Or another desired herb.
• Aged White Cheddar Cheese: Shredded.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated.
• Nutmeg: Add a pinch of this versatile spice to provide a hint of nutty flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: Added to taste.

Which Type of Potatoes is Best for This Recipe?

I strongly recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes for this dish. No other type of potato will deliver the same excellent outcome. The unique starch content and natural firmness of Yukon Gold potatoes make them ideal for absorbing the flavors of the sauce without losing their texture or becoming unpleasantly soft.

“Creating Delicious Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes”

In just 15 minutes of preparation time, you can create a simple and stress-free dish using potatoes. The key is to prepare a delicious sauce and then assemble everything in a baking dish for a hassle-free cooking experience.

Prepare for baking by preheating the oven to 400°F and coating a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Melt butter in a small saucepan, then add garlic and sauté briefly before adding flour. Stir in milk, nutmeg, and fresh thyme, and bring the mixture to a boil until thickened. Remove from heat and whisk in half a cup of aged cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth; set aside.

Begin the layering process by arranging half of the potatoes in the baking dish. Season them to taste with salt and pepper.

Begin by layering the sauce and cheese: cover the potatoes with half of the cream sauce, half of the remaining white cheddar cheese, and half of the parmesan cheese. Then, finish layering the potatoes by arranging the remaining potatoes in the casserole dish and seasoning them again with salt and pepper. Finally, pour the remaining cream sauce over the potatoes and top them with the rest of the white cheddar and parmesan cheeses.

Bake the casserole uncovered for 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is slightly browned. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious dish!

“Key Strategies for Achieving Great Results”

• Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the potatoes thinly, about 1/8-inch thick, for even cooking.
• Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch, then pat them dry with a paper towel before using.
• If the cream sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by making a cornstarch slurry. Mix 2 tablespoons of the sauce with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, then stir it back into the sauce and cook for an additional minute.
• Prepare the scalloped potatoes in advance by assembling them in a baking dish, covering tightly with foil, and refrigerating. Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes, then uncover, increase the oven temperature to 400°F, and bake until the cheese is bubbly.
• Let the baked scalloped potatoes rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions for Scalloped Potatoes

“I have several delicious recipes that complement this casserole perfectly. Pair any of these dishes with your cheesy scalloped potatoes for a guaranteed crowd-pleasing family meal!”

Pair your cheesy potatoes with a succulent Maple Glazed Ham for a sweet and savory main course, perfect for Christmas. For a delightful side, serve Meat and Veggie Kabobs, where meat and vegetables are skewered and grilled to perfection. Another great side option is Wrapped Asparagus, where asparagus is wrapped in prosciutto, offering a mouthwatering choice that even the little ones will love.

Store and save 

Leftover scalloped potatoes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator once they have cooled completely. They can last for up to 3 days. If you are saving the majority of the casserole for later, please refer to the storage and reheating instructions provided in the tips section. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave.

Conclusion: 

In summary, Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a quintessential comfort food that delivers on both taste and simplicity. The creamy texture of thinly sliced potatoes layered with a rich, cheesy sauce makes them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. These scalloped potatoes can stand alone as a hearty vegetarian main or serve as a decadent side dish alongside your favorite protein.

What sets this recipe apart is its ease of preparation and minimal ingredients, making it accessible for novice and experienced cooks alike. The steps are straightforward, from slicing the potatoes to layering them with the creamy cheese sauce, resulting in a dish that is both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious.

The versatility of these scalloped potatoes is another reason to love them. You can easily customize the dish by adding different cheeses, herbs, or even protein like ham or bacon for an extra savory twist. Plus, leftovers can be stored and reheated for a quick and satisfying meal later on.

In conclusion, Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a timeless classic that never fails to please. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

FAQ’S

How do the textures of scalloped and gratin potatoes differ, and what ingredients contribute to these differences?

Au Gratin Potatoes are known for their rich and indulgent flavor, with a creamy and cheesy texture. They are baked until crispy on top, offering a delightful contrast in textures. On the other hand, Scalloped Potatoes are a comforting and classic dish, featuring a creamy and baked texture. They are simple to make and versatile, often made with layers of potatoes and a creamy sauce. Both dishes use cheese and cream, but Au Gratin Potatoes specifically highlight the cheesy element, while Scalloped Potatoes focus more on the creamy aspect. Additionally, Scalloped Potatoes can also be made with flavorful stock instead of dairy, offering a different flavor profile. Whether you choose to make Classic Au Gratin Potatoes or Classic Scalloped Potatoes, you’re in for a delicious and satisfying dish.

What ingredients are typically used to make scalloped potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food made with thinly sliced potatoes layered in a casserole dish and baked until tender. The dish is prepared with ingredients such as flour, butter, onions, salt, and pepper, which are layered with the potatoes to create a flavorful and creamy sauce. The potatoes are baked, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the sauce while becoming soft and tender. This dish is known for its creamy texture and is typically baked in the oven, making it a popular choice for a comforting side dish.

Why might scalloped potatoes turn out watery, and what steps can be taken to avoid this issue?

When using pre-prepped potatoes from the refrigerator section, they may contain preservatives that can result in a slightly watery texture. To prevent this, ensure that you drain well and pat dry any potatoes that have been stored in water to prevent discoloration before adding them to your casserole dish.

What is the recommended storage time for scalloped potatoes to maintain their quality and safety?

Scalloped potatoes can be stored in the fridge for about 4 days. They reheat well in the microwave, oven, or frying pan. If you want to freeze them longer, scalloped potatoes can be frozen. Almost any casserole dish can be frozen perfectly with a little know-how.