There’s something truly comforting about a hearty dish of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes—creamy, rich, and utterly satisfying. Whether served at a holiday feast, a family dinner, or just as a side dish on a cozy evening, this dish never fails to please. Made with thinly sliced potatoes, a creamy cheese sauce, and a golden, crispy top, cheesy scalloped potatoes have earned their place as a beloved classic in kitchens around the world.
This dish combines the humble potato with the indulgent goodness of cheese, creating a side dish that’s both decadent and familiar. The versatility of cheesy scalloped potatoes allows them to pair wonderfully with meats, vegetables, or even be enjoyed on their own as a main course. In this article, we will explore the recipe in-depth, delve into its origins, discuss variations, and even touch on the health benefits of this indulgent comfort food. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find everything you need to master this creamy, cheesy dish.
Overview of the Recipe
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are made by layering thin slices of potatoes in a baking dish, covering them with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and baking them until golden and bubbly. The potatoes absorb the creamy sauce as they cook, resulting in a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. While scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes are often confused, the main difference lies in the use of cheese. Scalloped potatoes traditionally do not include cheese in the sauce, whereas au gratin potatoes are made with cheese throughout the dish. However, the term “cheesy scalloped potatoes” has become widely accepted to describe dishes that incorporate cheese, adding another layer of flavor.
In the traditional version, the dish includes potatoes, butter, cream or milk, and seasonings. Cheese, however, is the star of the show in modern recipes, with cheddar being the most common choice. Depending on your preferences, the cheese sauce can be made with a combination of cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère for added richness and complexity.
This dish is an excellent choice for holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, as it pairs well with roasted meats like turkey, ham, and chicken. It can also be served at family gatherings, potlucks, and weeknight dinners.
History and Origin
The origins of scalloped potatoes can be traced back to the early 19th century, though the name “scalloped” itself is believed to be linked to the French term “escalope,” which refers to a thin slice of meat or fish. The original idea behind scalloped potatoes was a dish made by layering thin slices of potato in a baking dish, then covering them with a creamy sauce, often made with milk or cream. Traditionally, cheese was not part of the dish.
The first known appearance of scalloped potatoes can be found in an 1830s cookbook, where the potatoes were cooked with butter and milk. It wasn’t until later in the 19th and early 20th centuries that cheese began to make its way into the dish, likely influenced by the popularity of cheese sauces in other recipes at the time.
While scalloped potatoes are widely considered an American comfort food, they have counterparts in other culinary traditions. For example, the French gratin dauphinois and the British potato dauphinoise both feature similar ingredients, including sliced potatoes and cream or milk, though the British version may sometimes include cheese.
Over the years, cheesy scalloped potatoes have become a staple in American cuisine, particularly in the South and Midwest, where they are often featured as a side dish at gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Making Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is straightforward and requires only a few key ingredients. The beauty of this dish is that it can be easily customized depending on your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here is a list of ingredients to make approximately 6 servings:
Basic Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes (peeled and sliced thinly)
- 2 cups heavy cream (or a mix of milk and cream for a lighter version)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, or a mix of both)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the baking dish and enhancing flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for added herbaceous flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, to enhance the flavor of the cheese sauce)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for sprinkling on top)
Optional Add-ins:
- Fresh herbs, like parsley or rosemary, for garnish
- Sour cream or cream cheese for a tangy twist in the sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish (9×13 inches) with butter or olive oil to prevent the potatoes from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and thinly slice the potatoes to about 1/8-inch thick slices. You can use a sharp knife, but for even slices, a mandoline slicer works wonderfully.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. If you’re adding onions and garlic, sauté them in the butter for about 3-5 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
Once the onions and garlic are cooked, add heavy cream (or milk and cream mixture) and bring to a simmer. Whisk in the cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings like mustard or thyme. Continue to simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Layer the Potatoes
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring it covers them evenly. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
Step 5: Bake the Scalloped Potatoes
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of the potatoes in the final 10 minutes of baking for an extra layer of cheesy goodness. Once the dish is out of the oven, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the cheesy scalloped potatoes hot as a side dish to your favorite main course.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are an incredibly versatile side dish, and they pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Here are some suggestions to complement the richness of the potatoes:
Meat Pairings:
- Roast Beef: The richness of roast beef pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.
- Baked or Grilled Chicken: The mild flavor of chicken provides a lovely contrast to the cheesy potatoes.
- Turkey: A classic pairing, particularly for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Vegetarian Pairings:
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: A side of greens, such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus, balances out the richness of the potatoes.
- Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the potatoes.
Drinks:
- Sparkling Water: The crispness of sparkling water helps cleanse the palate between bites of the rich dish.
Variations of the Recipe
While traditional cheesy scalloped potatoes are fantastic on their own, there are many ways to tweak the recipe and add your personal touch. Here are some ideas for variations:
1. Loaded Scalloped Potatoes:
Add green onions, and sour cream to the cheese sauce for a loaded potato feel. This variation adds both flavor and texture to the dish.
2. Sweet Potato Scalloped Potatoes:
For a twist on the classic, use sweet potatoes instead of regular russets. Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.
3. Spicy Scalloped Potatoes:
For a little kick, add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes to the cheese sauce. You can also mix in some pepper jack cheese for a spicy, melty surprise.
4. Vegan Scalloped Potatoes:
Use cashew cream or coconut milk in place of heavy cream, and opt for dairy-free cheese to create a vegan-friendly version of the dish.
Health Benefits Notes
Although cheesy scalloped potatoes are indulgent and comfort food at its finest, there are a few ways to make the dish slightly healthier:
- Use lower-fat dairy: Opt for reduced-fat cheese or a mix of cheese and non-dairy milk options to cut down on fat content.
- Increase vegetable content: Add extra vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or spinach, to increase the fiber and nutrients in the dish.
- Opt for sweet potatoes: If you use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes, you’re adding additional vitamins and antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamin A.
FAQs
1. Can I make cheesy scalloped potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Assemble the scalloped potatoes and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to allow the dish to come to room temperature before baking.
2. Can I use other types of cheese?
Definitely! While cheddar is the most popular choice, you can experiment with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, Swiss, or a combination of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
3. How can I make the potatoes cook faster?
To speed up the cooking process, you can pre-cook the sliced potatoes by blanching them in boiling water for 5-7 minutes before assembling the dish.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the dish in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Conclusion
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a timeless dish that delivers comfort, flavor, and satisfaction. With simple ingredients and the ability to customize based on your tastes, it’s no wonder that this dish is a favorite in so many households. Whether served at a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or as a side to a weeknight meal, cheesy scalloped potatoes are sure to impress and bring smiles to the table.
Recommended Recipes
If you loved making cheesy scalloped potatoes, here are some other comfort food recipes to try:
- Classic Mashed Potatoes
- Twice-Baked Potatoes
- Baked Macaroni and Cheese
- Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes
- Creamy Potato Soup