Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes (Printable Version)

Tender potato slices layered with rich cheddar cheese in a creamy sauce, baked to golden perfection.

# What You'll Need:

→ Potatoes

01 - 4.5 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

→ Dairy

02 - 3 cups whole milk
03 - 1 cup heavy cream
04 - 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
05 - 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
06 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Aromatics & Seasonings

07 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
08 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
10 - 1 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
12 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Garnish

14 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, chopped

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
02 - Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Cook onion until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
03 - Stir in flour and cook, stirring constantly, until lightly golden, about 1–2 minutes.
04 - Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
05 - Remove from heat. Stir in 2 cups cheddar, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
06 - Arrange half the potato slices in the dish, slightly overlapping. Pour half the cheese sauce evenly over potatoes. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes and sauce.
07 - Sprinkle remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
08 - Cover dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
09 - Remove foil and bake an additional 25 to 30 minutes until top is golden and potatoes are tender.
10 - Let rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Rich, creamy layers make this dish irresistibly comforting.
  • Sharp cheddar combined with Parmesan creates a deep, savory cheese flavor.
  • Southern-inspired seasoning adds a subtle smoky kick.
  • Perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
02 -
  • Use a mandoline for evenly thin potato slices to ensure uniform cooking.
  • Cover the dish tightly with foil during the first bake to keep moisture in and prevent drying out.
  • Letting the dish rest before serving helps the sauce thicken and layers set nicely.
  • Check seasoning carefully before baking to balance salt and spice levels.
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