This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a rich and creamy dish layered with tender potatoes, a flavorful cheese sauce, and aromatic spices. Baked to perfection until golden and bubbly, this dish is the ultimate comfort food and a perfect side for any dinner gathering. Whether served with roasted meats or as a stand-alone dish, these scalloped potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

4 ½ cups Yukon gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
1 – 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp garlic powder
3 tbsp salted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 ½ cup half-and-half
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
1 cup shredded Colby cheddar cheese, divided

Directions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large casserole dish.
Prepare Seasoning: In a bowl, whisk together salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Make Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium pot over medium heat, melt butter.
- Whisk in flour until combined, then gradually add half-and-half while whisking.
- Stir in ½ cup Monterey Jack and ½ cup Colby cheddar cheese. Whisk until melted, then remove from heat.
Season Potatoes: Toss dried potato slices with the prepared seasoning mixture to coat evenly.
Layer Potatoes: Arrange half of the potato slices in the casserole dish, then pour half of the cheese sauce over them. Repeat with remaining potatoes and cheese sauce. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 30-50 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Rest & Serve: Let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: 318 kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 56mg
Sodium: 458mg
Potassium: 589mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 637 IU
Vitamin C: 24mg
Calcium: 281mg
Iron: 1mg

Enjoy this indulgent and creamy cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe—perfect for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners!

The History of Scalloped Potatoes

The origins of scalloped potatoes can be traced back to European cuisine, particularly in French and English cooking. The term “scalloped” refers to the thinly sliced nature of the potatoes, which are layered and baked in a creamy sauce. Traditionally, scalloped potatoes were made without cheese, but over time, variations incorporating cheese have become incredibly popular. The dish has evolved across different cultures, each adding its own unique twist, from using heavy cream to including spices and various types of cheese. Today, cheesy scalloped potatoes are a staple in many households, cherished for their creamy texture and comforting taste.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This particular recipe stands out due to its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of Monterey Jack and Colby cheddar cheeses creates a rich, gooey consistency with a sharp yet smooth taste. Smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder enhance the overall flavor profile, adding depth without overpowering the dish. The use of half-and-half instead of just milk or heavy cream ensures a velvety texture that binds the layers of potatoes beautifully. Baking the dish to a golden, bubbly perfection results in a delightful contrast between the crispy top and the creamy layers beneath.

The Perfect Side Dish for Any Occasion

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are versatile and can complement a wide variety of meals. They pair exceptionally well with roasted meats such as turkey, ham, or beef, making them an excellent choice for holiday feasts, Sunday dinners, or celebratory gatherings. Additionally, they can be served with grilled vegetables, seafood, or even as a vegetarian main dish with added ingredients like mushrooms or spinach. Their rich and creamy nature makes them an indulgent addition to any meal, bringing both comfort and elegance to the table.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

The type of potato used significantly impacts the texture of the dish. Yukon gold and Russet potatoes are ideal choices for scalloped potatoes due to their starch content. Yukon gold potatoes have a naturally buttery texture, which enhances the creaminess of the dish, while Russet potatoes absorb the sauce well, creating a softer consistency. The key to achieving the perfect bite is slicing the potatoes uniformly—about 1/8 inch thick—to ensure even cooking and a balanced distribution of flavors.

Achieving the Perfect Cheese Sauce

A smooth and velvety cheese sauce is the heart of this dish. The key to a lump-free, creamy sauce is making a proper roux—a mixture of butter and flour cooked together before gradually adding half-and-half. This process thickens the sauce, creating a rich and luscious consistency. Whisking constantly while adding cheese ensures that it melts evenly, preventing graininess. Using a combination of Monterey Jack and Colby cheddar provides both meltability and a well-rounded cheese flavor that complements the potatoes beautifully.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the cheese sauce. Shredding cheese from a block ensures better melting and a creamier texture.
Layer evenly: Distributing the potato slices and cheese sauce evenly ensures consistent cooking and a well-balanced dish.
Cover while baking initially: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps the potatoes cook through without drying out. Removing the foil later allows the top to become golden and crispy.
Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to cool for about 10-15 minutes helps the sauce thicken and set, making it easier to serve without the layers falling apart.

Variations and Additions

While this classic recipe is delicious as is, there are numerous ways to customize it to suit different preferences:

Bacon Lovers: Add crispy bacon bits between the layers for a smoky, savory twist.
Garlic and Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh garlic, rosemary, or thyme into the cheese sauce for an aromatic enhancement.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Meaty Addition: Mix in diced ham or cooked sausage to turn this side dish into a hearty main course.
Vegetarian Twist: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions for added depth of flavor.

Storing and Reheating

Cheesy scalloped potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for convenience. For longer storage, the dish can be frozen; however, the texture may change slightly upon reheating due to the dairy content. If freezing, allow the dish to cool completely, wrap it tightly, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the epitome of comfort food, offering a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful experience with every bite. Their rich texture and indulgent taste make them a perfect addition to holiday feasts, family dinners, and special gatherings. With the right choice of potatoes, a well-crafted cheese sauce, and a few expert tips, this dish can be elevated to perfection. Whether enjoyed as a side or a main dish, it’s a recipe that never fails to impress, bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table every time.

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