Description
This classic Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features tender layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes and sweet yellow onions smothered in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Baked to golden perfection and finished with a crisp broiled topping, this comforting casserole is perfect as a hearty side dish for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Onions
- 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (about 2 pounds)
- 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Lightly spray an 8x8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Potatoes and Onions: In the prepared casserole dish, alternate layers of sliced potatoes and onion rings, arranging them in a staggered pattern for even coverage.
- Cook Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and kosher salt and continue whisking constantly for one minute to form a roux.
- Add Milk and Thicken Sauce: Gradually pour in the room temperature whole milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue cooking the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in all the shredded mild cheddar cheese at once. Stir briskly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, about 30 to 60 seconds.
- Pour Sauce Over Potatoes: Evenly pour the freshly made cheese sauce over the layered potatoes and onions. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to help the potatoes cook thoroughly.
- Bake the Dish: Bake the covered casserole in the preheated oven for 85 to 90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Broil for Crisp Topping: Once the potatoes are baked, remove the foil and switch the oven setting to broil. Place the casserole under the broiler just until the top turns golden brown and crispy, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Season and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven, season with salt and pepper to your taste, and serve the cheesy scalloped potatoes hot.
Notes
- For best results, slice potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Room temperature milk helps prevent lumps in the cheese sauce.
- You can substitute mild cheddar with sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
- Covering the dish with foil during baking keeps the potatoes moist and tender.
- Keep a close eye while broiling to avoid burning the topping.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American