Save Ultra-creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes baked Southern-style, with layers of tender potatoes and a rich, flavorful cheese sauce—perfect as a comforting side dish for any meal.
This recipe has been a family favorite for years, bringing everyone together around the dinner table with its irresistible cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 2 kg (about 4.5 lbs) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- Cheese Sauce: 4 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 medium yellow onion finely diced, 4 garlic cloves minced, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 3 cups whole milk warmed, 1 cup heavy cream, 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded (divided), 1 cup Gruyère cheese shredded, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a little heat), 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder (optional)
- Garnish (optional): 2 tbsp fresh chives or parsley chopped
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Step 2:
- In a large saucepan melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant about 1 minute.
- Step 3:
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir constantly for 2 minutes to form a roux.
- Step 4:
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk and heavy cream. Cook whisking often until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble about 5–6 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in 2 cups cheddar and all the Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt black pepper cayenne and mustard powder.
- Step 6:
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes spreading evenly.
- Step 7:
- Layer remaining potatoes on top then cover with the remaining cheese sauce.
- Step 8:
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese.
- Step 9:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30–35 minutes until potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbling.
- Step 10:
- Let rest for 10–15 minutes before garnishing with chives or parsley and serving.
Save This dish is often enjoyed during family gatherings, bringing comfort and joy to every meal shared together.
Notes
For extra flavor try adding cooked crumbled bacon or a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce. Pair with roast meats ham or barbecue for a classic Southern feast.
Required Tools
23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish Sharp knife or mandoline slicer Large saucepan Whisk Measuring cups and spoons Aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk cream cheese butter) and wheat (flour). Not suitable for those with milk lactose or gluten allergies. Always check cheese and ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save This recipe guarantees a rich creamy experience that will soon become a new classic in your kitchen.
Recipe FAQs
- → What types of potatoes work best?
Russet potatoes yield a fluffier texture, while Yukon Golds provide a creamier, buttery finish.
- → How is the cheese sauce prepared?
Butter, diced onion, and garlic are sautéed, then combined with flour to make a roux. Warm milk and cream are whisked in and thickened before adding shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses.
- → Can I add extra seasoning to the dish?
Yes, a pinch of cayenne pepper or dry mustard powder adds depth, and smoked paprika or crumbled bacon can enhance flavor as well.
- → How long should the dish rest after baking?
Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the sauce to set and flavors to meld before serving.
- → What size baking dish is recommended?
A 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish is ideal for even layering and baking.