Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a classic comfort food loved worldwide for their rich, creamy texture and indulgent cheesy layers. This dish consists of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a buttery, garlicky, cheesy sauce until golden brown and bubbly. It’s a perfect side dish for holiday feasts, Sunday dinners, or even as a satisfying main course.

Whether served alongside roast beef, turkey, ham, or grilled chicken, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes add a decadent and savory element to any meal. This dish is perfect for cheese lovers and potato enthusiasts alike, making it a favorite at family gatherings and potlucks.

History of Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes have a long and rich history, dating back to European culinary traditions, particularly in French and British cuisines. The term “scalloped” refers to the preparation method, which involves thinly slicing potatoes and layering them with cream or cheese before baking.

While the original scalloped potatoes recipe did not include cheese, variations emerged over time, especially in the United States and Canada, where adding cheese, garlic, and herbs became a popular adaptation. Today, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a staple in many homes, particularly for holiday meals like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.

Benefits of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

1. Nutrient-Rich Ingredients

• Potatoes provide fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
• Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, essential for bone health.
• Garlic and onions add immune-boosting properties.

2. Comfort Food for Any Occasion

This dish is warm, creamy, and satisfying, making it perfect for cold weather, family gatherings, and celebrations.

3. Easily Customizable

You can make variations using different cheeses, adding bacon, or including herbs like rosemary and thyme to enhance the flavors.

4. Pairs Well with Many Dishes

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes complement a wide range of meats, roasted vegetables, and salads, making them a versatile side dish.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 6 medium russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold, peeled and thinly sliced)
• 1 medium onion (thinly sliced, optional for extra flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth of flavor)

For Topping:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepping the Potatoes

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes (about ⅛-inch thick) for even cooking.
3. Slice the onion thinly and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Making the Creamy Cheese Sauce

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sliced onions and sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
3. Sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously to form a roux.
4. Slowly pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
5. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
6. Stir in Dijon mustard (if using) and bring to a gentle simmer.
7. Remove from heat and gradually add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.

Step 3: Layering the Potatoes

1. Grease a baking dish (9×13-inch).
2. Arrange a layer of potatoes in an overlapping pattern.
3. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
4. Repeat the layers until all the potatoes and sauce are used.

Step 4: Baking the Dish

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
2. Remove the foil, sprinkle extra cheese (and breadcrumbs, if using), and bake for another 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
3. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside roast chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon for a balanced meal.
• Pair with a fresh green salad to add contrast to the richness.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine or iced tea

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	380 kcal
Protein	12g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fats	18g
Fiber	4g
Calcium	250mg

Why People Love Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

1. Creamy, Cheesy Goodness – The blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich and irresistible texture.
2. Perfect Comfort Food – The warmth and creaminess make it a hug in a dish.
3. Simple Yet Elegant – Can be served at a casual dinner or a formal holiday feast.
4. Easy to Make Ahead – Can be prepared a day in advance and baked when needed.
5. Versatile – Add bacon, ham, mushrooms, or different cheeses for unique variations.

Conclusion

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a timeless classic that never fails to impress. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for a holiday meal or as a comforting dinner, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With layers of tender potatoes, rich cheese sauce, and crispy golden topping, this dish is the ultimate indulgence for cheese and potato lovers.

So next time you’re looking for a cozy, cheesy, and hearty dish, give this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe a try! It’s bound to become a family favorite for generations to come.

Would you like a vegan version or any additional variations for this recipe? 😊 🧀🥔