Pin It Ultra creamy Southern-style scalloped potatoes layered with rich cheddar cheese and a velvety sauce perfect as a comforting side for any occasion.
This recipe has become a family favorite, reminding me of cozy Sunday dinners and festive gatherings where everyone asks for seconds.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 2 kg (about 4.5 lbs) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
- Dairy: 3 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated, 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Aromatics & Seasonings: 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped, 3 cloves garlic minced, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh chives or parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat melt butter. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
- Make Roux:
- Stir in flour cook stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add Dairy:
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Continue whisking until smooth and slightly thickened about 5 minutes.
- Mix Cheese Sauce:
- Remove from heat. Stir in 2 cups cheddar all the Parmesan salt pepper smoked paprika and cayenne. Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Layer Potatoes:
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared dish slightly overlapping. Pour half the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.
- Add Topping:
- Sprinkle remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. Garnish with chives or parsley.
Pin It This dish always brings the family together especially during holidays and weekend dinners creating warm and lasting memories.
Required Tools
9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish large saucepan whisk sharp knife or mandoline cutting board aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains milk cheese butter and gluten (flour) not suitable for dairy- or gluten-free diets always check cheese and cream labels for hidden additives or allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 390 Total Fat 23 g Carbohydrates 34 g Protein 13 g per serving
Pin It The rich cheese sauce perfectly complements tender potatoes making this a memorable side for any meal.
Questions About This Recipe
- → What type of potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are preferred for their texture and flavor when thinly sliced.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses?
Cheddar can be swapped with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor twist.
- → How do I get a smooth sauce?
Melt butter and cook onion and garlic before whisking in flour, milk, and cream gradually to ensure a creamy, lump-free sauce.
- → What spices enhance the flavor?
Smoked paprika and cayenne pepper add a subtle smoky heat that balances the richness of the cheese.
- → How to achieve a golden top?
Bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncovered for 25–30 minutes to brown the cheese topping evenly.