Description
This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features tender russet potatoes layered with sautéed onions and a creamy homemade cheddar cheese sauce. Baked to golden perfection and finished under the broiler for a crispy topping, this comforting casserole makes a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Onions
- 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (about 2 pounds)
- 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Potatoes and Onions: In the prepared baking dish, layer the potato slices and onion rings in a staggered pattern, alternating between potatoes and onions to distribute flavors evenly.
- Cook Cheese Sauce: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and kosher salt, stirring constantly for one minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the room temperature whole milk while continuing to whisk. Cook the mixture until it thickens into a creamy sauce.
- Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded mild cheddar cheese all at once. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth, about 30-60 seconds.
- Pour Sauce Over Potatoes: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the arranged potatoes and onions in the casserole dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
- Bake: Bake the covered dish in the preheated oven for 85 to 90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Broil for Crispy Topping: After baking, remove the foil and change the oven setting to broil. Broil the potatoes until the top is golden brown and crispy, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot as a delicious, creamy side dish to complement your meal.
Notes
- Use whole milk at room temperature to help the cheese sauce thicken smoothly without clumping.
- For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or fresh herbs to the cheese sauce.
- If you prefer a sharper taste, substitute mild cheddar with sharp cheddar cheese.
- Ensure the potatoes are sliced evenly to guarantee uniform cooking.
- Broiling time may vary based on your oven; watch carefully to prevent burning the top layer.
