Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a rich, creamy sauce and baked to golden perfection. This dish is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, holidays, or any time you want a delicious side dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. The combination of tender potatoes, cheesy goodness, and creamy sauce makes every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1 ½ lbs)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Assemble the Dish: Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Repeat the layers until all the potatoes and sauce are used up, ending with a layer of cheese sauce on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve: Let the scalloped potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Potato Choice: Russet potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes because they are starchy and absorb the creamy sauce well. Yukon gold potatoes can also be used for a creamier texture.
- Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Gruyère, gouda, or parmesan can all add a unique flavor to the dish.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the scalloped potatoes a day ahead of time, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
- Add-Ins: For added flavor, you can mix in cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions, or fresh herbs into the layers of potatoes.
- Storage: Leftover scalloped potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
These Scalloped Potatoes are the epitome of comfort food—a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a holiday gathering, they’re sure to be a hit.