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Best Scalloped Potatoes

Best Scalloped Potatoes

Best Scalloped Potatoes offer a warm, comforting dish featuring creamy, cheesy layers of tender potatoes baked to golden perfection. This classic recipe brings together simple pantry staples in a luscious sauce topped with rich melted cheese, perfect as a versatile side or a hearty vegetarian main. Easy to make, make-ahead friendly, and irresistibly delicious, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 45 large Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled if desired and thinly sliced about 1/8 inch thick

Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk or cream
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Cheese

  • 23 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (or blend with Gruyere, mozzarella, or parmesan as preferred)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash, peel if desired, and slice the potatoes evenly about 1/8 inch thick to ensure they cook uniformly and absorb the sauce well.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux, cooking long enough to remove raw flour taste but not to brown it. Slowly whisk in milk until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Stir in minced garlic, chopped onions, salt, and pepper. Finally, add most of the shredded cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
  3. Layer the Dish: Butter a baking dish. Arrange a layer of potato slices on the bottom, then pour over some of the cheese sauce. Repeat layering potatoes and sauce until all are used, finishing with a generous sprinkle of cheese on top.
  4. Bake Until Golden: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled dish for about 60 minutes or until potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  5. Rest Before Serving: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to settle for perfect serving.

Notes

  • Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
  • Cook the roux properly to avoid raw flour taste but do not let it brown.
  • Add milk slowly when making the sauce to prevent lumps.
  • Arrange potato layers gently to allow sauce to coat each slice thoroughly.
  • Allow resting time after baking so the dish sets properly before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, comfort food, creamy potatoes, cheesy potatoes, potato casserole, side dish, baked potatoes, easy potato recipe