Golden Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Golden creamy and irresistibly cheesy scalloped potatoes are the kind of dish that steals the spotlight at any meal. Layered with tender potatoes, rich cream, and a blanket of melted cheese this classic comfort food brings warmth and flavor in every bite. Whether for a holiday gathering cozy weeknight meal or a Sunday dinner it never fails to satisfy with its rustic elegance and homey goodness.

This recipe has become a family favorite over the years. I remember making it for a holiday dinner and everyone went back for seconds then asked for the recipe. It’s one of those comforting dishes that always feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients

• Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes: choose firm potatoes for the perfect balance of creaminess and structure
• Unsalted butter: to add richness to the sauce and to develop flavor evenly
• Fresh garlic: for that subtle savory aroma that infuses the creamy sauce
• All-purpose flour: creates the roux that thickens the sauce to a silky smooth texture
• Whole milk and heavy cream: combine to make a luxurious velvety sauce that coats every potato slice
• Salt and freshly ground pepper: to season and balance richness in every layer
• Sharp cheddar cheese: melts beautifully offering bold cheese flavor and the perfect golden top
• Fresh thyme or parsley: used as an optional garnish for a pop of color and brightness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Potatoes:

Peel the potatoes if you prefer a smooth texture then slice them very thin about one eighth of an inch using a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and tender layers throughout the dish.

Make the Cream Sauce:

In a large saucepan melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and gently cook until fragrant about one minute being careful not to burn. Whisk in the flour and stir constantly for one to two minutes to form a roux that will thicken the sauce. Slowly add the milk and cream while whisking steadily to avoid lumps until the sauce becomes thick and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Layer the Dish:

In your prepared oven-safe baking dish begin by adding a layer of sliced potatoes. Pour some cream sauce evenly over the potatoes and sprinkle a layer of shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top. Repeat this layering process until all potatoes sauce and cheese are used finishing with a generous cheese layer on the top.

Bake to Perfection:

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius for forty-five minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another twenty-five to thirty minutes until the top is bubbly golden brown and slightly crisp.

Rest and Serve:

Let the scalloped potatoes rest for ten minutes out of the oven. This resting helps the sauce thicken slightly making the dish easier to slice and serve while deepening the flavors.

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My favorite part is the sharp cheddar cheese which melts into the luxurious sauce creating that irresistible golden crust. Once my family tasted this dish at a holiday dinner they kept asking for it every year. It really brings people together around the table.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit covered with foil to keep the potatoes moist or microwave single servings for convenience. For longer storage wrap tightly and freeze up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version replace all-purpose flour with a 1 to 1 gluten-free blend or use cornstarch to thicken your sauce. Try gruyere parmesan or smoked gouda cheeses to bring unique flavor twists. Yukon Gold potatoes offer a buttery creaminess while Russets provide fluffier layers. Leaving skins on adds rustic texture and nutrients if you prefer.

Serving Suggestions

Scalloped potatoes pair wonderfully with roast chicken glazed ham or grilled steak for a comforting meal. They also make a lovely addition to brunch buffets alongside eggs sausage and fresh greens. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley add a burst of color and subtle flavor on top.

Cultural Context

Scalloped potatoes have European roots often appearing at family gatherings and festive meals. The dish highlights humble ingredients transformed through slow cooking into rich satisfying comfort food. Its timeless appeal has made it a beloved classic across many cultures.

Pro Tips

• Always slice potatoes thin and uniformly for even cooking and creamy texture
• Don’t skip toasting the flour in the butter to make a smooth lump-free roux
• Cover with foil during the first baking phase to ensure tender potatoes before browning the top

Commonly Asked Questions

→ What potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes?

Yukon Gold potatoes offer a buttery texture, while Russets provide fluffier layers. Both create tender, creamy results.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use a combination of milk and cream, cook the sauce gently before baking, and avoid high heat to keep the sauce smooth.

→ Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble layers in advance and refrigerate covered. Bake or reheat fully cooked portions before serving.

→ Are there cheese alternatives that work well?

Gruyère, Parmesan, or smoked Gouda blend beautifully with cheddar and add unique layers of flavor.

→ Should potatoes be peeled before slicing?

Peeling creates a smoother texture, but leaving skins adds rustic charm and extra nutrients.

→ How can this dish be made gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch to thicken the cream sauce.