Creamy, tender sliced potatoes baked in a rich, cheesy sauce. A comforting and classic side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- For the Potatoes:
- 2.5 pounds potatoes (such as Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Gruyère, or a blend)
- Optional, additional toppings:
- breadcrumbs.
- paprika.
- fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme.
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese.
- Layer the Potatoes:
- In the prepared baking dish, create layers of potatoes, onions, and sauce. Start with a layer of potatoes, then a layer of onions, then drizzle with some of the cheese sauce. Continue layering until all the potatoes and onions are used, making sure that a generous amount of sauce is disbursed between the layers.
- Pour any remaining sauce over the top layer of potatoes.
- Add Cheese and Bake:
- sprinkle the remainder of the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Optionally add bread crumbs and or paprika to the top before baking.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- Finish Baking:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. A knife should easily pierce the potato slices.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and the potatoes to set.
- Optionally garnish with fresh herbs.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Add a layer of ham or cooked bacon between the potatoes.
- To check if potatoes are done, use a fork or knife to pierce the middle of the potatoe layers. If the utensil slides easily through the potato, it is done.
- Allowing time for the dish to rest, after baking is very important for the sauce to set.
Enjoy your delicious scalloped potatoes!