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Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Kids Love Easy Make-Ahead Recipe

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A creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe that’s kid-approved, easy to make ahead, and perfect for busy families. This comforting side dish features thinly sliced russet potatoes baked in a smooth cheddar and Parmesan cheese sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk, warmed slightly
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
  2. Slice the peeled potatoes thinly about 1/8-inch thick using a mandoline or sharp knife.
  3. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of warm milk and continue whisking until the sauce thickens and bubbles gently, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Fold in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Arrange a layer of potato slices in the bottom of the baking dish, overlapping slightly. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading evenly.
  7. Repeat layering potatoes and cheese sauce until all are used, finishing with a generous cheese sauce layer on top.
  8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
  9. Let the scalloped potatoes rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to set up and meld flavors.

Notes

If the top browns too fast, tent loosely with foil halfway through baking. For quicker cooking, microwave sliced potatoes for 3-4 minutes before layering. Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate; add 10-15 minutes to baking time when baking from cold. For dairy-free, substitute plant-based milk and vegan cheese. For gluten-free, replace flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend.

Nutrition

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes, creamy potatoes, make-ahead side dish, kid-friendly, comfort food, easy potato recipe

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/creamy-cheesy-scalloped-potatoes-kids-love-easy-make-ahead-recipe/