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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

4.6 from 118 reviews

This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features tender layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes and onions baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The dish is topped with melted cheddar cheese and broiled to achieve a golden, crispy crust—perfect as a comforting side for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes and Onions

  • 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (about 2 pounds)
  • 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded

Seasoning

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Arrange Potatoes and Onions: Layer the potatoes and onions in the prepared baking dish, alternating slices of potatoes and rings of onions to create a staggered, even layering.
  3. Cook Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and kosher salt, whisking constantly for about one minute to form a smooth roux.
  4. Add Milk and Thicken: Gradually whisk in the room temperature whole milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
  5. Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded mild cheddar cheese all at once. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, about 30 to 60 seconds.
  6. Pour Sauce Over Potatoes: Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  7. Bake: Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 85 to 90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  8. Broil for Crisp Topping: After baking, remove the foil and switch the oven setting to broil. Place the dish under the broiler until the top is golden brown and crisp, watching closely to prevent burning.
  9. Season and Serve: Season the scalloped potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm as a hearty and comforting side dish.

Notes

  • Use room temperature milk to help achieve a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce.
  • For extra flavor, you can add minced garlic or thyme to the cheese sauce.
  • Choose a mild or sharp cheddar cheese depending on your taste preference.
  • To make slicing easier, partially freeze the russet potatoes for about 30 minutes before slicing.
  • The broil step is optional but recommended for adding a deliciously crispy top.

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes, baked potato casserole, comfort food, side dish, cheddar cheese, potato bake