Perfectly Layered Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Cheesy Comfort Food

Photo byHomemade Kitchen

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to the warmth and satisfaction that scalloped potatoes bring to the table. This recipe is a perfect marriage of creamy, cheesy goodness and tender slices of russet potatoes. Whether you're serving it as a side dish at a family gathering or indulging in a plateful on a cozy evening, scalloped potatoes never fail to deliver that heartwarming flavor we all crave.

The hallmark of this dish lies in its simplicity. Soft, perfectly cooked layers of potatoes meld together with a rich cheese sauce, gently seasoned with onion. This version is a classic take on the beloved comfort food, yet it remains timeless in its appeal. There’s no need for extravagant ingredients or complex techniques—just a few basic items, patience, and love for cheesy potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat an 8x8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Layer the Potatoes and Onions: Begin by layering the potato slices and onion rings alternately in the prepared baking dish, building even layers until the dish is filled.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and kosher salt, stirring constantly to form a roux. This will serve as the base of the sauce.
4. Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens to the consistency of a creamy sauce. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.
5. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheese sauce over the layered potatoes and onions, ensuring that the sauce evenly coats every piece. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
6. Bake to Perfection: Let the scalloped potatoes bake for 85–90 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. For an extra golden and crispy top, remove the foil for the last few minutes and switch the oven to broil.
7. Season and Serve: Once done, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Season with additional salt and pepper, if desired, before serving the dish warm.

The Comfort of Scalloped Potatoes

There’s something undeniably satisfying about the blend of buttery potatoes with the creaminess of cheese. Each bite delivers layers of tender potato slices, all soaked in a luscious cheese sauce with just a hint of onion to round out the flavors. It's an indulgence that's both nostalgic and universally loved, whether served as a side or enjoyed as a meal on its own.

This scalloped potatoes recipe will be a hit for any occasion—from cozy weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings. Its straightforward preparation and soul-warming taste are sure to win over family and friends alike.

To create the perfect scalloped potatoes, you need to focus on a creamy sauce, thinly sliced russet potatoes, and layers of flavor that will bring out the best in this classic comfort dish. The key to great scalloped potatoes is to alternate layers of potatoes and onions, and then cover everything in a rich, cheesy sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and cheese. After baking, you’ll achieve a golden top that seals in the creamy goodness.

Some tips to enhance your scalloped potatoes:

1. Potato Choice: Russet potatoes are great for this recipe due to their high starch content, which helps to thicken the sauce as they cook​.
2. Cheese Options: Cheddar is a favorite for its sharpness, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for a different flavor profile​.
3. Baking: Be sure to bake the dish until the potatoes are fork-tender, around 85–90 minutes. For a crispier top, broil the dish for a few minutes after the main baking time​.

For more detailed recipe guidance and tips on how to make scalloped potatoes, you can check resources from (Allrecipes)(King Arthur Baking)Serious Eats), King Arthur Baking, and Serious Eats.

Enjoy your creamy, indulgent scalloped potatoes!