Description
This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a comforting and creamy side dish perfect for Christmas dinner or any special occasion. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made with mozzarella and cheddar, seasoned with onion and garlic powders, salt, and pepper. Finished with a golden melted butter topping and garnished with fresh parsley or dill, this dish offers a delightful combination of cheesy, savory flavors and tender texture that pairs wonderfully with holiday meats and vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 1 kg potatoes, thinly sliced or enough to fill the baking dish
Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup shredded or chopped mozzarella
- ¾ cup cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream
- 1.5 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Parsley or dill, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. Set them aside while preparing the cheese sauce.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream until smooth. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Add Seasonings and Cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and fold in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
- Assemble the Dish: In a greased baking dish, arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce to form layers.
- Bake the Scalloped Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill before serving to add a fresh herbal touch.
Notes
- For best results, slice potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute half-and-half for cream to reduce richness if desired.
- Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for an extra warm flavor.
- Use a mandoline slicer for consistent potato slices and safer handling.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving.
Keywords: Cheesy scalloped potatoes, Christmas dinner side dish, creamy potatoes, baked potato casserole