Scalloped potatoes have been a staple in Midwestern kitchens for generations, a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table.
This oven-baked cheesy scalloped potato recipe is a nod to the past, reminiscent of Sunday dinners at Grandma’s house, where the aroma of creamy, cheesy potatoes filled the air.
It’s a dish that speaks of family gatherings, of stories shared over a hearty meal, and of the simple joy of good, honest food.
Perfect for holidays or any special occasion, these scalloped potatoes are sure to become a beloved tradition in your home.
These cheesy scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with a roasted chicken or a glazed ham, making them a perfect side for a holiday feast. For a lighter meal, serve them alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the potatoes. A side of steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts would also complement the creamy, cheesy flavors wonderfully.
Oven Baked Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients
3 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup of shredded Gruyère cheese
2 cups of heavy cream
1 cup of whole milk
3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in the heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Heat until just about to simmer, then remove from heat.
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping each slice.
Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar and Gruyère cheese.
Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley or chives.
Serve warm.
Variations & Tips
For a bit of a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream mixture. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as adding some Parmesan for extra depth of flavor.
If you prefer a meatier dish, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon between the layers of potatoes.
For a vegetarian twist, layer in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Remember, the key to perfect scalloped potatoes is to slice them thinly and evenly, ensuring they cook through evenly.
