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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

4.4 from 96 reviews

This classic Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features tender layers of sliced russet potatoes and onions baked in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. With a perfectly golden, bubbly top and a smooth, velvety texture inside, this comforting casserole is an ideal side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes and Onion

  • 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (about 2 pounds)
  • 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven and prepare dish: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Arrange potatoes and onions: Layer the sliced potatoes and onions in the prepared dish, alternating between potato slices and onion rings for even distribution of flavors.
  3. Make cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and kosher salt, whisking constantly for one minute to form a roux.
  4. Thicken sauce: Gradually whisk in the room temperature milk. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce has thickened and coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Add cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat, then immediately stir in all the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth, about 30 to 60 seconds.
  6. Combine and cover: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 85-90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  8. Broil for topping: Remove the foil, set the oven to broil, and broil the casserole until the top turns golden brown and crispy, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  9. Season and serve: Season the scalloped potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot as a comforting side dish.

Notes

  • Use room temperature milk to ensure a smooth cheese sauce without lumps.
  • Russet potatoes work best for a creamy texture as they absorb the sauce well.
  • Covering with foil while baking prevents the top from drying out before the potatoes cook through.
  • Broiling at the end creates an appetizing golden crust for texture contrast.
  • For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder to the cheese sauce.

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes, potato casserole, baked potatoes, comfort food, cheddar cheese, side dish