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Best Scalloped Potatoes

Best Scalloped Potatoes
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Best Scalloped Potatoes is a classic comfort dish featuring tender, thinly sliced starchy potatoes baked in a luscious, creamy cheese sauce. This recipe combines buttery richness, sharp cheddar cheese, and subtle garlic and onion flavors to create an irresistibly silky and cheesy side dish perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any occasion where you want a warm, cheesy embrace on your plate.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 4 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)

Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups heavy cream
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds approximately 1/8 inch thick. Using a mandoline slicer is recommended for consistent thickness to ensure even cooking and tender texture.
  2. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for about 1-2 minutes without browning. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream to avoid lumps. Add the minced garlic, finely chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Cook while stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Remove from heat, then stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
  3. Layer the Potatoes and Sauce: Grease a baking dish and arrange a layer of potato slices. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Repeat layering potatoes and sauce until all are used, finishing with a top layer of sauce.
  4. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  5. Rest and Serve: Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and allows for neater, firmer servings.

Notes

  • Use a mandoline slicer for even potato slices to ensure uniform cooking.
  • Do not skip making the roux, as it is essential for thickening the sauce and preventing it from being runny.
  • Spread sauce evenly between potato layers for balanced flavor in every bite.
  • Let the dish rest after baking to set the sauce and improve serving presentation.
  • Sharp cheddar cheese provides excellent flavor and melt, but combining with other cheeses like Gruyere or Parmesan can add complexity.

Nutrition

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, creamy potatoes, cheesy potatoes, baked potatoes side dish, comfort food, holiday side dish

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