Indulge in the comforting goodness of a timeless classic with this Easy Scalloped Potatoes recipe. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a velvety, cheesy sauce, baked to golden perfection — this dish is the epitome of homely satisfaction. Perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or any occasion that calls for a side dish that’s both simple and decadent.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. If using onions, thinly slice them as well.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour to create a roux. Cook for a minute or two until the mixture is lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk to avoid lumps, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens.
- Reduce the heat to low, and add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the sauce with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
- In a greased baking dish, arrange a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by a layer of sliced onions if using, and then a layer of the cheese sauce.
- Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a layer of cheese sauce on top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the potatoes are tender.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- If desired, garnish the scalloped potatoes with fresh thyme or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Notes:
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, to customize the flavor profile.
- Feel free to layer in other ingredients like cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for added richness.
This Easy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings the warmth of a classic comfort dish to your table. Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious, it’s a side that complements any main course and leaves everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the simple joy of homemade goodness with every forkful.
