CHEESY SCALLOPED POTATOES

There’s nothing quite like the comforting layers of creamy, cheesy goodness found in a dish of scalloped potatoes. This recipe for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a delightful blend of tender potatoes, rich cheese, and a hint of garlic that creates a side dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re gathering around the table for a holiday feast or simply indulging in a cozy weeknight dinner, these scalloped potatoes are sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of rich, cheesy flavors, then this dish will become a favorite. The simplicity of the ingredients lets the flavors shine, and the method ensures perfectly cooked, tender potatoes every time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various tastes and occasions.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• 8×8 or 7×10 baking pan
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Knife for slicing potatoes
• Cutting board

Ingredients

• 2 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and butter an 8×8 or 7×10 baking pan. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the pan.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute to form a roux.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and slowly whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Bring it to a light simmer to thicken.
5. Stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted, then remove from heat.
6. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes in the baking pan. Sprinkle about 1/2 cup of cheese over the top.
7. Layer the remaining potatoes over the top, followed by the remaining cheese sauce and cheese.
8. Bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

Tips for Success

• For even cooking, slice the potatoes as uniformly as possible.
• If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the cheese sprinkled on top, but keep the cheese in the sauce for flavor.

Additional Tips and Variations

Try adding cooked bacon bits or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor. For a different cheese profile, consider mixing in some Gruyère or Parmesan with the cheddar.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact values may vary, each serving provides a hearty dose of calcium and protein from the cheese, and a comforting amount of carbohydrates from the potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply bake it in the preheated oven.

What type of potatoes work best? Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their texture and flavor.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a surefire hit at any meal, bringing comfort and flavor to your table. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear your variations and experiences in the comments below.