Description
These cheesy scalloped potatoes are creamy, rich, and full of flavor. With layers of tender potatoes, caramelized onions, and a velvety cheese sauce, this dish is the perfect side for holiday dinners, potlucks, or any comfort food craving.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds (~2 pounds)
- 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced into rings
- 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 black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds depth of flavor
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smoky taste
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese – For an extra cheesy kick
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Enhances the cheese sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease an 8×8-inch casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Layer the Potatoes & Onions
- Arrange the potato slices and onion rings in the baking dish in alternating layers.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Step 3.1: Make the Roux
- In a medium-sized saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Step 3.2: Add Milk & Cheese
- Slowly pour in warm milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Stir until the mixture thickens (3-5 minutes).
- Add cheddar cheese all at once and stir until fully melted and smooth (30-60 seconds).
Step 4: Assemble & Bake
- Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes and onions.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 85-90 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 5: Crisp the Top (Optional)
- Remove the foil and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
- Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese, if desired.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, use half heavy cream, half milk instead of just milk.
- For a crispy top, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or extra Parmesan before broiling.
- For added depth of flavor, mix in Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or smoked Gouda.
- Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- To prevent a grainy sauce, use freshly shredded cheese, not pre-packaged.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 50mg