What a delight! This is my hubby’s favorite side dish! But he eats it like a main!
Baked Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a beloved comfort food that combines thinly sliced potatoes with a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This dish is a staple in Southern cuisine, often served at family gatherings, holiday dinners, and potlucks. Its irresistible combination of tender potatoes and cheesy goodness makes it a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about making the perfect scalloped potatoes, from the essential ingredients to expert tips and variations.
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Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced | 4 large |
| Unsalted butter | 3 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Whole milk | 2 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Shredded sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh chives, finely chopped (optional, for garnish) | 2 tablespoons |
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth and cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined. Set aside.
- Arrange half of the potato slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes.
- Add the second layer of potatoes, followed by the remaining cheese sauce. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove the foil, and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Sprinkle with fresh chives for garnish if desired.
