How to Make the Perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food that everyone loves, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This quick and easy recipe combines tender potatoes with creamy cheese sauce, creating a dish that's rich, flavorful, and absolutely delicious.
Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is simple to follow and will surely impress your guests. Let's dive into the steps to make these irresistible cheesy scalloped potatoes!
Ingredients You'll Need
Before we get started, here’s what you’ll need to make the best cheesy scalloped potatoes:
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- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (you can use any cheese you prefer)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)
These ingredients create the perfect balance of creaminess and cheese, while the garlic and thyme add a depth of flavor that makes the dish extra special.
Preparing the Potatoes
The first step in making your cheesy scalloped potatoes is to prepare the potatoes. Here's how:
- Peel and Slice the Potatoes: Start by peeling your russet potatoes and slicing them into thin, even rounds. The thinner the slices, the more evenly they cook and the creamier the dish will be. You can use a mandolin slicer to achieve uniform thickness.
- Soak the Potatoes: To prevent the potatoes from turning brown and to help remove excess starch, place them in a bowl of cold water. Set them aside while you prepare the sauce. This also helps the potatoes hold their shape during baking.
Making the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Now, let’s make the creamy cheese sauce that will coat the potatoes and bring everything together. Here’s how you do it:
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant.
- Add Milk and Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring constantly to combine. Let the mixture come to a simmer but avoid boiling it. This will ensure that your sauce doesn’t curdle and stays silky smooth.
- Season the Sauce: Add the salt, black pepper, and paprika to the sauce. These seasonings will enhance the flavor of the cheese and make the sauce more vibrant.
- Melt the Cheese: Once the milk and cream mixture is heated, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts completely. You can also add a handful of Parmesan cheese for added richness and depth. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Assembling the Dish
Now that you have your cheese sauce ready and your potatoes prepped, it’s time to assemble your cheesy scalloped potatoes:
- Grease the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure that the potatoes don’t stick to the pan during baking.
- Layer the Potatoes: Begin by placing a layer of potato slices at the bottom of the dish. Spread them out evenly. Then, pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, making sure they are well-coated. Repeat this process until all the potatoes and sauce are used, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.
- Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the top of the dish with grated Parmesan cheese for a beautiful, golden, crispy crust as it bakes.
- Bake the Potatoes: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Let the Dish Rest
Once your cheesy scalloped potatoes are done baking, let them rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the sauce to set and makes the potatoes easier to serve. The resting time also helps the flavors meld together perfectly.
Serving and Enjoying
After your cheesy scalloped potatoes have rested, it’s time to serve! Garnish with fresh thyme or chives for a pop of color and extra flavor. These potatoes are perfect as a side dish for holidays, barbecues, or any meal that needs a hearty, comforting addition.
Serve them alongside roast chicken, steak, or grilled vegetables to make a complete meal that will leave everyone satisfied.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Thin slices of potatoes cook faster and create a creamier texture. Be sure not to cut them too thick, as they may take longer to cook and could end up too firm.
- Use Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The sharp flavor of cheddar really stands out in this dish, adding a tangy kick. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
Comfort Food in a Flash
Making cheesy scalloped potatoes is simple, and this recipe proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create a dish that’s full of flavor. With just a few basic ingredients and some easy steps, you can enjoy this classic comfort food anytime.
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking for a cozy family meal, this recipe is sure to please. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious scalloped potatoes!
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Source: grandbabycakes
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