Description
This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce made with sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and a touch of sour cream. Enhanced with sautéed onions and garlic, this comforting casserole is perfect as a side dish for family dinners or holiday meals. The dish is baked until bubbling and golden, delivering rich flavors and a luscious, tender texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté Onion: Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly, cooking the mixture for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Add Cream: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream (or milk), stirring until smooth and combined.
- Simmer Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently, then mix in sour cream, salt, pepper, and paprika. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Layer Potatoes: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in a prepared baking dish.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour half of the prepared sauce over the potatoes and spread evenly. Then sprinkle half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese, ensuring an even distribution.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute milk for the heavy cream in the sauce.
- Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice potatoes evenly for best texture and even cooking.
- Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken further.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds color and a fresh flavor contrast but is optional.
- Adjust seasoning including salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American