Classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
If you’re in search of a comforting, classic side dish that never fails to impress, look no further than this classic scalloped potatoes recipe. Inspired by a beloved 1971 Florence Junior Welfare League cookbook, this dish combines tender slices of potato with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures that only gets better with time. Perfect for holiday feasts or a cozy family dinner, these scalloped potatoes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk (cold)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cheese (additional, shredded)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Sauce:
Begin by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, gradually blend in 3 tablespoons of flour, stirring continuously to form a smooth paste. Allow the mixture to sit for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. -
Add Milk and Seasonings:
Slowly add 1 1/2 cups of cold milk to the flour and butter mixture, whisking vigorously to ensure there are no lumps. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Continue to cook the sauce on low heat, stirring occasionally with a whisk, until it becomes smooth and begins to boil. -
Incorporate the Cheese:
Once the sauce has reached a boiling point, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. -
Layer the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into approximately 1/8-inch rounds. Lightly grease a 1-quart casserole dish. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over this layer of potatoes. -
Add Another Layer:
Place the remaining potato slices on top of the first layer. Pour the remaining cheese sauce evenly over these potatoes. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of additional shredded cheese on top of the sauce for an extra cheesy finish. -
Add a Touch of Paprika:
For a hint of color and added flavor, sprinkle a pinch of paprika over the top of the casserole. -
Bake to Perfection:
Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Let the scalloped potatoes sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy. Whether you’re serving it alongside a succulent roast or as a stand-alone dish, this scalloped potatoes recipe is sure to delight.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 288.3
- Fat: 16.7g
- Saturated Fat: 10.5g
- Cholesterol: 49.6mg
- Sodium: 682.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 24.3g
- Fiber: 2.3g
- Sugar: 0.9g
- Protein: 11g
This recipe yields 6 servings, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of these scalloped potatoes, and don’t forget that the leftovers are just as delectable, if not better, the next day. 🌟🍽️🧀
