CHEESY SCALLOPED POTATOES

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a rich, creamy, and comforting side dish perfect for any occasion. Layers of tender potatoes are baked with a creamy cheese sauce until golden and bubbly. Here’s how you can make this delicious dish:

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs russet potatoes (about 6 medium potatoes)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing the dish)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for the sauce)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Gruyère for extra flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions:

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel and Slice the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick. Try to make them as even as possible so they cook evenly.
3. Grease the Baking Dish: Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of butter or cooking spray.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

1. Cook the Garlic: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Make the Roux: Add the flour to the pan, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes, until the flour is lightly golden. This creates the base for your sauce.
3. Add the Liquids: Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the Cheese and Seasonings: Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to taste. Stir to combine.

Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes:

1. Layer the Potatoes: Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
2. Continue Layering: Repeat the layering process—add another layer of potatoes and top with more cheese sauce. Continue until all the potatoes and sauce are used, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.
3. Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top for a golden, crispy finish.

Bake:

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
2. Uncover and Continue Baking: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
3. Let It Rest: Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the sauce thicken and set.

Serving Suggestions:

• These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a perfect side dish to serve with roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef.
• They pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.

The combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender potatoes makes this dish a family favorite! Let me know how it turns out!