Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Cheddar Fan With Golden Edges

Name: cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe Cheddar Fan with Golden Edges
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups sharp or mild Cheddar cheese, freshly shredded; 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half; 1 small onion (about 0.5 cup minced); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp salt, or to taste; 0.5 tsp black pepper, freshly ground; A pinch nutmeg, freshly grated

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I’ve found that few dishes deliver as much pure comfort and joy as a perfectly baked potato gratin. This cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe Cheddar Fan with Golden Edges is my go-to for those evenings when I crave crispy edges and a creamy center, a time-tested favorite for busy families that brings everyone to the table. We’ve perfected this classic for maximum flavor and ease, ensuring perfect results every time. We’ll show you how to achieve those irresistible golden edges every single time, with smart shortcuts and family-friendly tips.

cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe Cheddar Fan with Golden Edges

Ingredient List with Better Choices

Potatoes: 3 lbs (1.36 kg) Russet or Yukon Gold, thinly sliced (for the best cheesy scalloped potatoes texture).
Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (225g) sharp or mild, freshly shredded (for superior melt and quality flavor; freshly shredded is always best, but pre-shredded works in a pinch if you’re short on time).
Heavy Cream: 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream or half-and-half (for rich, velvety sauce; for a slightly lighter dish, use whole milk, though it won’t be as rich).
Onion: 1 small (about 1/2 cup minced) (for aromatic depth).
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (for pungent flavor).
Unsalted Butter: 4 tbsp (56g) (for sautéing and rich flavor).
Salt: 1 tsp, or to taste (enhances all flavors).
Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp, freshly ground (for a mild kick).
Nutmeg: A pinch, freshly grated (for a warm, subtle complement).

For a premium ingredient experience, choose organic potatoes and high-quality, aged Cheddar cheese for richer, more complex flavor. Consider grass-fed butter for a deeper, more decadent taste. For a dairy-free version of this cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe, swap dairy cream for full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream, and use plant-based cheddar shreds. To create a lower-carb alternative, substitute thinly sliced celeriac or daikon radish for potatoes. This recipe is naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients are certified if strict dietary needs apply. Visit your local farmers market for the freshest, seasonal potatoes. For convenience, especially with specialty cheeses, online grocery delivery can be a great option.

Easy-to-Follow Cooking Instructions

Prep Potatoes: Wash and thinly slice 3 lbs (1.36 kg) potatoes to 1/8-inch thickness using a mandoline or sharp knife for uniform cooking. A mandoline makes quick work of this, ensuring every slice is even.
Create Flavor Base: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Sauté minced onion and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Simmer Cream Sauce: Pour in 2 cups (480ml) cream, then season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in 1 cup (112g) shredded Cheddar until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
Layer in Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish generously with the remaining 2 tbsp butter. Arrange one-third of the potato slices in the bottom, overlapping slightly. Pour one-third of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat layers twice, finishing with the last portion of sauce on top. I’ve found that carefully layering ensures every bite gets a good distribution of cheesy goodness. If your sauce appears too thick after melting the cheese, add a splash of milk (1-2 tablespoons) to reach a pourable consistency.
Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes, until the potatoes are mostly tender. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup (112g) Cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for another 20-25 minutes, or until the cheesy scalloped potatoes are bubbling, fork-tender, and boast glorious golden edges.

A mandoline slicer saves significant prep time for uniform potato slices, crucial for evenly cooked cheesy scalloped potatoes. While the potatoes are slicing, you can simultaneously prepare the cream sauce. Using pre-shredded Cheddar is a handy shortcut, though fresh shredding yields superior melt and flavor, making this a truly satisfying cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe. For a subtle kick in your cheesy scalloped potatoes, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cream sauce. For a heartier, protein-packed addition, consider stirring in cooked, seasoned ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.

Perfect Settings & Serving Ideas

This cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe Cheddar Fan with Golden Edges is incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into various meal scenarios.

Busy Weeknights: A hearty and comforting side to a simple rotisserie chicken or roasted vegetables.
Family Dinners: The perfect celebratory side dish for a Sunday roast beef or a holiday gathering.
Entertaining: A crowd-pleasing addition to potlucks, holiday buffets, or casual gatherings, showcasing those coveted golden edges.
Lunch Boxes: Reheats wonderfully for a comforting and filling midday meal at work or school, making it one of my favorite meal prep recipes.

For balance, pair your potatoes with fresh, vibrant options and a complementary beverage.

Sides: A crisp, fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted asparagus balances the richness.
Garnishes: Fresh chopped chives or parsley add a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the visual appeal of your cheesy scalloped potatoes.
Drinks: Sparkling cider or unsweetened iced tea complements the rich flavors.

Storage & reheating methods

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy your delicious cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe Cheddar Fan with Golden Edges for days.

Fridge: Store any leftover cheesy scalloped potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven (covered) at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual servings until hot.

Health and Lifestyle Benefits of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Cheddar Fan with Golden Edges

This comforting and satisfying dish supports a balanced diet when served with lean protein and plenty of vegetables. It’s an excellent choice for easy dinner ideas and meal prep recipes, allowing you to portion out satisfying meals in advance. You can modify it for lower-calorie meals by using lighter dairy (e.g., skim milk, reduced-fat cheese) or by swapping a portion of the potatoes for nutrient-dense celeriac root.

Everyday Wins with This Recipe

This cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe Cheddar Fan with Golden Edges offers several advantages for the home cook.

Time-Saver: Minimal active cooking time means more hands-off oven baking, freeing you up for other tasks.
Budget-Friendly: Uses common, affordable ingredients to create a rich and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Effortless Comfort: A dish that feels special and indulgent but is surprisingly simple to achieve, making it a reliable staple for your family dinners.

Tips from the Kitchen

Elevate your cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe Cheddar Fan with Golden Edges with these simple tweaks.

Flavor Boost: Infuse the cream with a bay leaf or a sprig of fresh thyme while simmering, then strain before adding cheese for a deeper, more aromatic base.
Spice Adjustments: Experiment with a touch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of hot sauce for extra zing. For truly extra crispy golden edges, lightly broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning!
Texture Trick: My secret for super tender potatoes is letting the sliced potatoes soak in cold water for 15 minutes, then draining and patting them very dry; this removes excess starch.

Options for making it kid-friendly, festive, or diet-specific

Adapt this recipe to suit any occasion or dietary need.

Kid-Friendly: Use mild Cheddar, cut potatoes into fun shapes, or add a sprinkle of crispy fried onions for appeal.
Festive Touch: Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a special look, especially during the holidays.
Diet-Specific: Refer to the ingredient section’s substitutions for low-carb meals (celeriac) or dairy-free adaptations.

Allergy swaps or safety pointers

Always prioritize kitchen safety and awareness.

Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens, especially with pre-packaged cheese or cream.
Use a mandoline carefully with a safety guard to prevent accidents while slicing potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Cheddar Fan with Golden Edges

Can cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe Cheddar Fan with Golden Edges be made ahead?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. For best results and even cooking, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

What type of potatoes are best for this cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe?

Russet potatoes offer a classic fluffy texture, while Yukon Golds provide a creamier consistency and hold their shape well. Both work wonderfully for achieving those golden edges.

How do I get those perfect golden edges on my cheesy scalloped potatoes?

The key is to remove the foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This allows the cheese on top to brown and crisp up beautifully, giving you those coveted golden edges.

Is this cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe good for meal prep ideas?

Absolutely! Make a large batch and divide it into individual portions for easy dinner ideas or grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. It reheats wonderfully.

Can I freeze leftover cheesy scalloped potatoes?

Yes, fully cooked and cooled cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe Cheddar Fan with Golden Edges freezes well. Wrap tightly or place in airtight containers for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.

What are some healthy dinner options to pair with cheesy scalloped potatoes?

Pair your cheesy scalloped potatoes with lean protein like baked chicken breast or roasted turkey. A big side salad or steamed green vegetables will also balance the meal nicely, contributing to healthy eating.

Conclusion

This cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe Cheddar Fan with Golden Edges delivers unparalleled comfort, rich flavor, and those utterly irresistible golden edges, making every meal a celebration. It’s a dish I rely on for both everyday deliciousness and special occasions. Pin this family-friendly recipe now to save it for your next comforting meal prep or dinner!