Best Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped Potatoes are a classic dish with layers of potatoes and rich creamy cheese sauce on repeat! The ingredients are simple in these Scalloped Potatoes recipe but they are the perfect from scratch side dish to Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of comfort food, these scalloped potatoes are sure to become a staple in your home. They’re creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, making them an ideal accompaniment for any holiday meal or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- One-quart casserole dish
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 1⁄2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 dash cayenne pepper
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1⁄2 cup grated cheese, to sprinkle on top
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter and blend in the flour. Let it sit for a minute.
- Add all of the cold milk, stirring with a whisk.
- Season with salt and cayenne pepper.
- Cook the sauce on low until smooth and boiling, stirring occasionally with a whisk.
- Reduce heat and stir in the cheese.
- Place half of the sliced potatoes in a lightly greased one-quart casserole dish.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Repeat with the second layer of potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Top with some paprika for color.
- Bake uncovered for about 1 hour at 350°F.
Tips for Success
To ensure your potatoes are perfectly cooked, slice them evenly and thinly. This helps them cook at the same rate. Also, make sure your sauce is smooth before pouring it over the potatoes to avoid any lumps.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor. You can also mix in some cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist. For a creamier sauce, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
These scalloped potatoes are rich and satisfying. Nutritional values will vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used, but they are typically high in calcium and vitamin C.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I prepare these in advance? Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese are excellent alternatives.
Conclusion
I hope you’re ready to give these Best Scalloped Potatoes a try. They’re a comforting addition to any meal, and I’d love to hear how yours turn out. Feel free to share your experiences and any tweaks you make. Happy cooking!