Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy and Cheesy Comfort

These Scalloped Potatoes are a classic side dish, featuring thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich and creamy cheese sauce until tender and golden brown. They’re a comforting and satisfying accompaniment to many meals.

Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy and Cheesy Comfort

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 1-quart casserole dish.
2. Make the Roux: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and blend well to create a smooth paste (roux). Let this sit for about a minute, stirring occasionally.
3. Create the Cheese Sauce: Gradually add all of the cold milk to the roux, stirring constantly with a whisk to prevent lumps from forming. Season the sauce with salt and cayenne pepper.
4. Cook the Sauce: Cook the sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally with a whisk, until it becomes smooth, thickened, and just starts to boil.
5. Add Cheese to Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese until it is melted and the sauce is smooth and cheesy.
6. Layer Potatoes and Sauce: Place half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish, arranging them in an even layer. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes.
7. Repeat Layers: Add the remaining half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer on top of the cheese sauce. Pour the remaining cheese sauce evenly over the second layer of potatoes.
8. Top with Cheese and Paprika: Sprinkle the ½ cup of grated cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. For a touch of color, lightly sprinkle some paprika over the cheese.
9. Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10. Cool Slightly and Serve: Let the scalloped potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. They are a delicious side dish with a creamy texture and cheesy flavor!