Best Easy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Creamy, layered scalloped potatoes baked golden with a cheesy top are a comforting, vegetarian family holiday side. This rich, indulgent dish is a beloved addition to any dinner table.

Cook 70 min Difficulty NORMAL 280 kcal
#vegetarian #comfort food #holiday side #cheesy potatoes
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • russet potatoes 2.5 lbs
  • yellow onion 1 pieces
  • whole milk 2 cups
  • heavy cream 0.5 cups
  • shredded sharp cheddar cheese 1.5 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • unsalted butter 4 tbsp
  • all-purpose flour 3 tbsp
  • kosher salt 1.25 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • garlic powder 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 31 g 44%
Protein 9 g 13%
Fat 14 g 43%
Serving size 185g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter for even browning.

  2. 2

    Peel and slice potatoes thinly (about ⅛ inch thick) and soak in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain well and pat dry to prevent watery sauce.

  3. 3

    In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add sliced onions and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened but not browned for gentle sweetness.

  4. 4

    Sprinkle in the flour and cook, whisking constantly for 1–2 minutes to remove raw flavor. Gradually whisk in milk and cream, keeping heat medium to avoid scorching.

  5. 5

    Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup cheddar until melted.

  6. 6

    Layer half of the potatoes in the baking dish, slightly overlapping the slices. Pour half the cheese sauce evenly over the top. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.

  7. 7

    Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese over the top. Cover with foil (non-stick side down) and bake for 40 minutes.

  8. 8

    Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.

  9. 9

    Let rest for 10 minutes before serving for the sauce to set, ensuring clean slices and best texture.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The core ingredient is russet potatoes, which provide the rich texture and earthy base that define scalloped potatoes. Combined with the creamy cheese sauce, this results in the comforting flavor and iconic layered structure of the dish.
Q. How do you ensure the sauce is creamy and not grainy?
Sautéing the onions and cooking the flour with butter before gradually whisking in the milk and cream ensures a smooth base. Melt the cheese into the thickened sauce off heat to prevent separation and graininess. Proper layering also helps the sauce coat each potato slice evenly.
Q. What's the best way to prevent watery scalloped potatoes?
After slicing, soaking potatoes in cold water removes extra starch, then drying them thoroughly is crucial. Layering them dry prevents excess moisture in the baking process, resulting in a creamy, set sauce rather than a watery one.
Q. How many calories and carbs are in one serving?
Each serving (185g) contains about 280 kcal and 31g of carbohydrates. Carbs make up 44% of caloric intake per serving, thanks to the potatoes, making this a satisfying, carb-forward side dish.
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