Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our mouthwatering homemade scalloped potatoes recipe! Made with thinly sliced potatoes, creamy cheese sauce, and a hint of cayenne pepper, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side dish or the star of the meal, our scalloped potatoes are guaranteed to impress. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a must-try for potato lovers everywhere. Pin it now to save for later

Gather Your Ingredients:

• Thinly sliced potatoes
• Butter
• Flour
• Milk
• Salt
• Cayenne pepper
• Sharp cheddar cheese

Preparing the Sauce:

To start, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, blend in flour to create a roux. Let the mixture sit for a minute to cook off any raw flour taste. Next, slowly pour in cold milk while stirring continuously with a whisk. Season the sauce with salt and a dash of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat. Allow the sauce to cook on low heat until it becomes smooth and thickened, stirring occasionally.

Adding the Cheese:

Once the sauce is smooth and bubbling, it’s time to add the star ingredient – cheese! Stir in grated sharp cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. The cheese adds a rich, creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender potatoes.

Layering the Potatoes:

Now that the sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the scalloped potatoes. Start by placing a layer of thinly sliced potatoes in a lightly greased one-quart casserole dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes, ensuring each slice is coated in the creamy goodness. Repeat this process with another layer of potatoes and cheese sauce until all ingredients are used.

Baking to Perfection:

Before popping the dish into the oven, sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish. For a pop of color and flavor, dust the top with a sprinkle of paprika. Bake the scalloped potatoes uncovered at 350°F for approximately one hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Homemade scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With creamy layers of tender potatoes and a cheesy sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served alongside a holiday roast or enjoyed as a comforting weeknight meal, these scalloped potatoes are guaranteed to satisfy.

FAQs:

1. Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
   Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences. Gruyere, Parmesan, or even a blend of cheeses can work well in this dish.
2. Can I prepare scalloped potatoes in advance?
   Absolutely! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
4. What can I serve with scalloped potatoes?
   Scalloped potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes, such as roasted chicken, steak, or pork chops. They also make a delicious side dish for holiday meals.
5. Can I freeze leftover scalloped potatoes?
   While you can freeze leftovers, the texture may change slightly upon reheating. It’s best to consume them within a few days for the best flavor and texture.