Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. With its rich layers of creamy cheese and tender potatoes, this dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or potluck parties. Not only is it simple to prepare, but its delightful flavors and textures make it a standout side that complements a variety of main courses.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: This easy scalloped potatoes recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making cooking a breeze.
- Rich Creamy Flavor: The combination of cheddar and parmesan cheeses creates a luscious creaminess that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pair these homemade scalloped potatoes with meats, salads, or serve them as a standalone dish—perfect for any occasion!
- Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves up to 10 people, ensuring there’s plenty to feed your guests or enjoy as leftovers.
- Comforting Texture: The layers of tender potatoes meld together beautifully, delivering a satisfying bite every time.
Tools and Preparation
To make these delicious scalloped potatoes, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment simplifies the process and helps achieve the best results.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mandoline slicer
- 9×13 baking dish
- Small saucepan
- Grater
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Mandoline slicer: Ensures even potato slices for uniform cooking and texture.
- 9×13 baking dish: Perfect size for layering ingredients and achieving an ideal bake.
- Small saucepan: Great for warming the cream mixture without burning it.
Ingredients
This easy scalloped potatoes recipe is incredibly comforting, creamy, cheesy, and rich! It’s a simple side dish that feeds a crowd and has very few ingredients.
For the Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups heavy/whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pepper (to taste)
For the Potatoes
- 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350F and move the rack to the middle position.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
While the oven heats up:
1. Grate both the cheddar and parmesan cheeses.
2. Peel the potatoes and slice them into 1/8 (3 mm) rounds using your mandoline slicer.
Step 3: Make the Cream Mixture
In a small saucepan over medium-high heat:
1. Add the butter; let it melt.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream along with salt and pepper; warm through while stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat just as it reaches a boil.
Step 4: Layer the Potatoes
In your greased 9×13 baking dish:
1. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom—overlap them slightly but don’t worry about perfection.
2. Drizzle half of the cream mixture over this layer.
3. Sprinkle half of each type of cheese on top.
4. Repeat this process with another layer of potatoes, followed by cream mixture and cheeses.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Cover your baking dish with foil:
1. Bake for 40 minutes.
2. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 25-35 minutes until tender; use a toothpick to check doneness.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Allow your scalloped potatoes to sit for about 5-10 minutes prior to serving. Enjoy this cheesy delight!
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful dish that pairs well with various meals. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With a Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers balances the richness of the potatoes.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing of a Caesar salad complement the cheesy flavors beautifully.
As a Main Dish
- Protein Pairings: Serve these scalloped potatoes alongside grilled chicken or baked ham for a satisfying main course.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian meal, pair with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
At a Gathering
- Potluck Wonder: This dish is perfect for potlucks, as it’s easy to transport and serves a crowd.
- Holiday Feasts: Include Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes in your holiday dinner spread for an indulgent touch.
For Meal Prep
- Reheating Tips: These potatoes reheat well. Prepare them in advance and warm them up for quick weeknight dinners.
- Freezing Option: Consider freezing leftovers for a convenient meal option later.
How to Perfect Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
To achieve the best results when making Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances flavor compared to pre-packaged shredded cheese.
- Slice Evenly: Ensure potato slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking. A mandoline slicer works great for this.
- Layer Wisely: Layering the potatoes and cheese allows for better melting and flavor distribution throughout the dish.
- Check Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so check your potatoes earlier than suggested to avoid overcooking.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Pairing side dishes with Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options.
- Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds freshness to your plate.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a delicious contrast in texture and flavor.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots complement the savory richness of scalloped potatoes beautifully.
- Balsamic Glazed Green Beans: The tanginess of balsamic vinegar enhances the overall taste experience.
- Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn adds sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings brightness and crunch that balance out the creaminess of the potatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making easy cheesy scalloped potatoes can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Always use freshly grated cheese and fresh potatoes. Pre-packaged grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent your dish from being creamy.
- Cutting potatoes unevenly: For even cooking, slice your potatoes uniformly. Using a mandoline slicer helps achieve consistent thickness.
- Not seasoning properly: Don’t skip the salt and pepper! Seasoning layers as you build the dish enhances flavor throughout the recipe.
- Overcrowding the baking dish: Avoid packing too many potatoes into your baking dish. Leaving some space allows for even cooking and prevents sogginess.
- Skipping the resting time: Letting the dish rest after baking is crucial. This allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Easy cheesy scalloped potatoes can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Reheat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power for about 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding easy cheesy scalloped potatoes.
What is the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin?
Scalloped potatoes typically have a creamy sauce without cheese, while au gratin includes cheese mixed with or on top of the dish.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and parmesan are delicious, feel free to experiment with Gruyère or mozzarella for different flavors.
How do I make this recipe healthier?
To create healthier easy cheesy scalloped potatoes, consider using low-fat cream and reduced-fat cheese options without sacrificing taste.
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add extra time when baking if it’s cold from the fridge.
How do I fix watery scalloped potatoes?
Ensure you slice your potatoes thinly and avoid excess cream. If they turn out watery, let them sit longer before serving to absorb moisture.
Final Thoughts
Easy cheesy scalloped potatoes are a comforting and rich side dish perfect for any meal. Their creamy texture and cheesy goodness make them versatile enough for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize with herbs or different cheeses to suit your taste!
Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8-10 people 1x
Description
Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the epitome of comfort food, combining tender layers of russet or Yukon Gold potatoes with a rich and creamy cheese sauce. This delightful dish is perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or cozy weeknight dinners. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this cheesy delight that will have everyone asking for seconds. The harmonious blend of sharp cheddar and nutty parmesan creates a luscious texture that perfectly complements any main course or stands out as a star on its own.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
- 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Using a mandoline slicer, thinly slice the peeled potatoes into 1/8-inch rounds.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, add garlic, then stir in cream, salt, and pepper until warmed through.
- In a greased 9×13 baking dish, layer half the potato slices, drizzle with half the cream mixture, and sprinkle half the cheeses. Repeat layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25-35 minutes until tender.
- Let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
