Description
This classic Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, rich cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar. The dish is baked until golden and bubbly, making it a perfect comforting side for family dinners or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk (cold)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 dash cayenne pepper
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Make the Roux: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and blend in the flour, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste. Let the mixture sit for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Prepare the Sauce: Gradually whisk in all the cold milk to prevent lumps. Season the mixture with salt and a dash of cayenne pepper. Cook the sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes smooth and begins to boil.
- Add Cheese to Sauce: Once the sauce is boiling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until it fully melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Layer Potatoes and Sauce: Lightly grease a 1-quart casserole dish. Place half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the dish, then pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes and the rest of the cheese sauce. Sprinkle the top evenly with the remaining grated cheese for a golden crust.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the scalloped potatoes for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, and the top is golden and bubbly.
Notes
- Use thinly sliced potatoes for even cooking.
- Cold milk helps prevent lumps in the cheese sauce.
- The cayenne pepper adds a subtle heat but can be omitted if preferred.
- Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor depth; other cheeses can be substituted.
- Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly during baking.
- Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier serving.
