Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a rich and creamy side dish that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners. Thinly sliced potatoes and onions are layered with a velvety cheese sauce, then baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
- Russet Potatoes – Provide a hearty base and creamy texture when baked.
- Yellow Onion – Adds a mild, sweet flavor to complement the potatoes.
- Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich base for the cheese sauce.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce for a creamy consistency.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavor of the sauce.
- Whole Milk – Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
- Mild Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully to create a smooth and cheesy sauce.
- Salt and Pepper – Used for seasoning to taste.
Note: Ingredient measurements can be found in the recipe card below the article.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Layer the Potatoes and Onions
Arrange the potatoes and onions in the prepared baking dish, staggering layers of potato slices and onion rings for even distribution.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Mix in the flour and salt, stirring constantly with a whisk for one minute to form a roux. Gradually stir in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese all at once and continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth, about 30-60 seconds.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes and onions. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 85-90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 6: Broil for a Crispy Topping (Optional)
For a crisp topping, change the oven setting to broil after baking. Broil until the surface is golden brown.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
How to Serve
Cheesy scalloped potatoes pair perfectly with roasted meats like ham, turkey, or beef. They also make a delicious vegetarian main dish when served with a side salad.
Make Over
Make Ahead
You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.
Storing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes! Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative, as they have a buttery flavor and hold their shape well.
Can I add extra cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more cheese for an even richer flavor or top the dish with Parmesan for extra sharpness.
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
While possible, freezing may alter the texture slightly. For best results, freeze before baking, and bake directly from frozen, adding extra time.
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Try it for your next family dinner or holiday feast!
PrintCheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors. Layers of tender potatoes and onions are baked in a rich cheddar cheese sauce, making this dish a perfect side for holidays, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch slices (about 2 pounds)
- 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Layer Potatoes and Onions: Arrange the potatoes and onions in the prepared baking dish, alternating layers of potato and onion.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and salt, whisking constantly for 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, cooking until thickened.
- Melt Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, continuing to stir until the sauce is melted and smooth (about 30–60 seconds).
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 85–90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Optional Broil: For a golden, crispy top, switch the oven to broil after baking and broil until golden brown.
- Season and Serve: Add salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.
Notes
- Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a richer flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
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