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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

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3.9 from 13 reviews

This classic Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features thinly sliced Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes layered in a creamy, flavorful cheese sauce made with Monterey Jack and Colby Cheddar cheeses, then baked to bubbly perfection. Enhanced with a blend of spices including smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder, this comforting casserole is perfect as a hearty side dish for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Potatoes and Seasoning

  • 4 ½ cups sliced Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
  • 1 - 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons salted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups half-and-half
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded Colby Cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions

  1. Prepare Potatoes: Wash the potato slices thoroughly, then dry them completely using a clean towel or paper towels. Set them aside for seasoning.
  2. Mix Seasonings: In a large bowl, whisk together kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder until well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the salt or spices as desired. Set aside.
  3. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Grease a large casserole dish with cover to prevent sticking during baking.
  4. Make Roux: In a medium pot over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour until it is completely incorporated and forms a smooth paste.
  5. Create Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the half-and-half into the roux, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and half of the shredded Colby Cheddar cheese. Stir until all the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
  6. Season Potatoes: Add the dried potato slices to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Toss thoroughly to evenly coat all the potato slices with the spices.
  7. Layer Potatoes and Sauce (Horizontal Method): Spread half of the seasoned potatoes in an even layer on the bottom of the greased casserole dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over this layer, making sure the potatoes are well coated. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce to create a second layer, fully covering the potatoes. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.
  8. Alternative Vertical Layering: For vertical scalloped potatoes, place all the seasoned potato slices stacked diagonally in the baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over and sprinkle with cheese. Note that this method requires doubling the cheese sauce and seasoning amounts, as there are more potatoes and a thicker layer. Ensure potatoes are fully covered with sauce to bake evenly.
  9. Bake Covered: Place the casserole dish covered in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften under steam.
  10. Bake Uncovered: Remove the cover and continue baking for an additional 30 to 50 minutes, depending on the thickness of your potato slices. Bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork.
  11. Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time helps the sauce thicken slightly for easier serving. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Notes

  • Ensure potatoes are sliced uniformly for even cooking and consistent texture.
  • Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially the salt, to suit your preference.
  • Doubling the sauce and seasoning is essential when baking potatoes stacked vertically due to the larger volume and thickness.
  • If using vertical layering, lay potato slices diagonally to allow sauce to coat all surfaces evenly.
  • Cover the casserole during the first half of baking to trap moisture and soften potatoes effectively.
  • Allow the dish to rest before serving to help the sauce set and enhance flavor.

Find it online: https://simpleplatter.com/cheesy-scalloped-potatoes-recipe/