Description

A creamy, cheesy, and tender scalloped potatoes dish with sharp cheddar that is easy to make and perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

3 pounds Russet potatoes (about 1.4 kg)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (56g)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (30g)
2 cups whole milk (480ml)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (200g)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 150g)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
Optional add-ins: bacon bits, gruyere or smoked gouda cheese, chopped chives or parsley

Instructions

Peel and slice potatoes evenly about 1/8-inch thick. Toss slices in a large bowl with half the salt and pepper. Finely chop onion and mince garlic.
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened and bubbling, about 4-5 minutes.
Add garlic, onion, remaining salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook 2-3 minutes until onions soften. Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Layer potato slices, pour a third of the cheese sauce over, repeat two more times finishing with sauce on top.
Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheddar over the top. Add bacon bits or herbs if desired.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until top is golden and potatoes are tender.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow sauce to set.

Notes

Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar for best melting and flavor. Slice potatoes evenly to ensure even cooking. You can assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate before baking. For gluten-free, substitute flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch slurry. Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of milk to keep creamy.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of the recipe
Calories: 320
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 400
Fat: 15
Saturated Fat: 9
Carbohydrates: 35
Fiber: 3
Protein: 12

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, creamy potatoes, cheddar potatoes, cheesy side dish, comfort food, easy potato recipe