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Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Easy Budget-Friendly Comfort Food with Sharp Cheddar

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A simple, comforting scalloped potatoes recipe featuring thinly sliced russet potatoes baked in a creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners and budget-friendly meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large russet potatoes (about 2.5 lbs / 1.1 kg), peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (8 oz / 225 g)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%, 480 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • A pinch of nutmeg
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Peel the russet potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. Place the slices in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme if using. Toss gently to coat all slices evenly.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth, bubbly paste (roux) without browning.
  5. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Stir in the Dijon mustard, nutmeg, and half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts fully and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading gently.
  8. Layer the remaining potatoes on top, then pour the remaining cheese sauce evenly over the top layer.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the dish for a golden, crispy top.
  10. Bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes until potatoes are tender and the top is bubbling and golden brown. Tent loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
  11. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and layers to set.

Notes

Use a mandoline for thin, even potato slices to ensure even cooking. Stir the sauce constantly while thickening to avoid lumps. Freshly shred cheese for better melting. Finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes if the top isn’t browned enough. Let the dish rest before serving for easier slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, comfort food, sharp cheddar, easy recipe, budget-friendly, cheesy potatoes, baked potatoes, creamy potatoes