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Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe


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4.1 from 76 reviews

  • Author: Diane
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings

Description

This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features tender, thinly sliced Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes baked in a rich, creamy garlic sauce layered with freshly grated cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Baked to golden perfection, this comforting side dish is perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, offering a deliciously cheesy, smooth, and hearty complement to any main course.


Ingredients

Cheese

  • 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Potatoes

  • 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8" (3 mm) thick

Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy/whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the oven rack in the middle to ensure even baking.
  2. Prepare Ingredients: While the oven heats, grate the cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly using a mandoline slicer to about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thickness for uniform cooking.
  3. Make Cream Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper, stirring occasionally. Allow the mixture to warm through and come just to a boil, then remove from heat to prevent curdling.
  4. Assemble Layers: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange half of the potato slices evenly at the bottom, overlapping slightly. Pour half of the cream sauce evenly over the potatoes, then sprinkle half of both cheeses on top. Repeat the layering with the remaining potato slices, cream sauce, and cheeses, finishing with a cheese layer on top.
  5. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook gently while retaining moisture.
  6. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-35 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly and a toothpick slides into the potatoes with little resistance. Adjust baking time as needed depending on your oven’s heat intensity.
  7. Rest Before Serving: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes the dish easier to serve.

Notes

  • Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin potato slices which ensures uniform cooking.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, but expect a less rich texture.
  • If you prefer spicier flavors, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the cream sauce.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
  • Ensure potatoes are sliced thinly to guarantee they cook fully during baking.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American