Cheesy Easter Scalloped Potatoes

It’s Easter at our house, and that means one thing for certain on the dinner table – a potato dish that is creamy, comforting, and utterly irresistible. Forget the heavy meats for a moment; this year, the star of our Easter feast, stealing hearts and second helpings, is undoubtedly the Cheesy Easter Scalloped Potatoes. From the moment the aroma starts wafting from the oven, a symphony of creamy, cheesy goodness fills the kitchen, promising a side dish that is anything but secondary. The first bite? Pure bliss. Perfectly tender potato slices enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection with those crispy edges that everyone fights over. Even the kids, who are notoriously picky eaters, devoured it, declaring it “the best potatoes ever!”. This recipe isn’t just a side dish; it’s an experience, a hug on a plate, and the perfect embodiment of Easter comfort food. Trust me, this Cheesy Easter Scalloped Potatoes recipe will become a beloved tradition in your home, just as it has in ours. Get ready for smiles all around the table – and maybe even a few requests for the recipe!

Ingredients

• Potatoes: 3 pounds, Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are recommended. These varieties hold their shape well when sliced and baked, providing the perfect texture for scalloped potatoes. Yukon Golds offer a slightly creamy texture, while Russets are starchier and create a more classic scalloped potato consistency.
• Heavy Cream: 2 cups. The foundation of our rich and decadent cheese sauce. Heavy cream provides the luxurious texture and creamy flavor that makes this dish so indulgent.
• Whole Milk: 1 cup. Balances the richness of the heavy cream, adding moisture and ensuring the sauce is perfectly pourable and coats the potatoes evenly.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted. Used to create the roux for the cheese sauce and to add a touch of buttery richness to the overall dish. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the recipe.
• All-Purpose Flour: 4 tablespoons. The thickening agent for the cheese sauce. When cooked with butter, it forms a roux, which helps to create a smooth and creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the potatoes.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium, finely diced. Adds a subtle savory sweetness and aromatic depth to the cheese sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Provides a pungent and aromatic base note to the cheese sauce, complementing the cheese and potatoes perfectly.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, grated. The star of our cheesy scalloped potatoes! Sharp cheddar delivers a bold, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce and adds a delightful sharpness.
• Gruyere Cheese: 1 cup, grated. Adds a nutty, slightly sweet, and complex flavor dimension to the cheese blend. Gruyere melts beautifully and contributes to the smooth, luxurious texture of the sauce.
• Fresh Thyme: 2 teaspoons, chopped. Infuses a delicate herbal aroma and earthy flavor into the dish, complementing the cheese and potatoes without overpowering them.
• Fresh Rosemary: 1 teaspoon, chopped. Adds a piney, aromatic note that pairs wonderfully with potatoes and cheese, providing a subtle yet distinctive flavor.
• Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon, ground. A secret ingredient that adds a warm, slightly sweet, and nutty undertone to the cheese sauce, enhancing its complexity and comforting flavor.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste. Adds a touch of spice and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish (optional). Provides a fresh, vibrant, and colorful garnish, adding a final touch of elegance and herbaceousness.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures the potatoes don’t stick and makes for easier cleanup later. Having the oven preheated and the dish ready to go streamlines the cooking process once the potatoes and sauce are prepared.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, slice the potatoes thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Uniformly thin slices are crucial for even cooking, ensuring the potatoes become tender at the same rate. If using a knife, aim for consistent thickness to avoid some slices being undercooked while others are overcooked. Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning and remove excess starch. This step helps maintain their color and prevents them from becoming sticky.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Sautéing the onion first mellows its sharpness and brings out its sweetness, creating a flavorful base for the sauce. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter quickly.
4. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is incorporated and the mixture starts to slightly brown. This step creates a roux, the foundation of the creamy cheese sauce. Cooking the flour removes its raw taste and allows it to effectively thicken the sauce.
5. Create the Cheese Sauce Base: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, followed by the heavy cream, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. Whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming and create a smooth sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens. Simmering allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
6. Infuse with Herbs and Spices: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. These herbs and spices infuse the sauce with aromatic depth and complexity. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper to your preference.
7. Melt the Cheese: Add the grated sharp cheddar cheese and Gruyere cheese to the sauce, a handful at a time, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and cheesy. Ensure the cheese is fully melted and incorporated for a velvety, lump-free sauce. The residual heat of the sauce will melt the cheese beautifully.
8. Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes: Drain the sliced potatoes from the cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important to remove excess water and starch, ensuring the sauce adheres properly to the potatoes. Layer about one-third of the potato slices in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Pour about one-third of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Repeat layers twice more, ending with a layer of cheese sauce on top. Layering ensures that each potato slice is coated in the creamy cheese sauce, resulting in a flavorful and evenly cooked dish.
9. Bake to Golden Perfection: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Baking covered initially allows the potatoes to steam and cook through evenly in the creamy sauce, preventing the top from browning too quickly. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden brown and bubbly. Uncovering for the last part of baking allows the top to brown and become beautifully golden and slightly crispy.
10. Rest and Serve: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Resting allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together even further, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall taste. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and fresh herbaceousness. Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy Easter delight!

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, approximately, based on 8 servings)

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 30g

*Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

This Cheesy Easter Scalloped Potatoes recipe requires about 30 minutes of active preparation, including slicing the potatoes, sautéing the aromatics, and making the cheese sauce. The baking time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, resulting in a total time of around 1 hour and 45 minutes from start to finish. While it takes a bit of time, the incredible flavor and comforting nature of this dish are well worth the effort, especially for a special occasion like Easter.

How to Serve

Cheesy Easter Scalloped Potatoes are a versatile and delightful side dish that complements a wide variety of Easter main courses and other dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this creamy potato masterpiece:

• Alongside Easter Ham: The classic pairing! The richness of the scalloped potatoes provides a wonderful counterpoint to the savory and slightly salty flavor of Easter ham. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness complement the ham beautifully, creating a balanced and satisfying Easter meal.
• With Roasted Lamb: For a more elegant Easter feast, serve scalloped potatoes alongside roasted lamb. The creamy potatoes and herbaceous notes from thyme and rosemary pair exquisitely with the rich and flavorful lamb.
• As a Vegetarian Main Course: For a vegetarian Easter celebration, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes can easily stand alone as a decadent and satisfying main course. Pair it with a vibrant green salad or roasted asparagus to complete the meal and add some freshness.
• Accompanying Roasted Chicken or Turkey: Whether you’re opting for chicken or turkey for your Easter centerpiece, scalloped potatoes are a fantastic side dish. They add a touch of indulgence and comfort that complements poultry perfectly.
• Part of a Brunch Spread: These scalloped potatoes are also delicious as part of an Easter brunch spread. They can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making them a convenient and crowd-pleasing addition to your brunch table.
• Alongside Spring Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed or roasted spring vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, peas, or carrots. The freshness and lightness of these vegetables provide a lovely contrast to the richness of the potatoes.
• With a Simple Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is an excellent accompaniment to balance the richness of the scalloped potatoes. The acidity of the vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess and provides a refreshing element to the meal.
• As Leftovers (Reheated): Scalloped potatoes are often even better the next day! Leftovers can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave. They make a delicious and comforting lunch or side dish for another meal.

Additional Tips for Perfect Cheesy Easter Scalloped Potatoes

To ensure your Cheesy Easter Scalloped Potatoes are an absolute hit, here are some additional tips and tricks to elevate your recipe:

1. Potato Choice Matters: While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are recommended, you can experiment with other varieties. Consider using a mix of Yukon Golds for creaminess and Russets for a slightly starchier texture. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they don’t release enough starch to thicken the sauce naturally.
2. Slice Potatoes Evenly: Uniformly thin potato slices are key to even cooking. Use a mandoline for consistent slices if you have one. If using a knife, take your time and aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick. Uneven slices will cook at different rates, leading to some potatoes being undercooked while others are mushy.
3. Don’t Skip the Cold Water Soak: Soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water removes excess starch, which prevents them from becoming sticky and helps maintain their color. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture and appearance.
4. Fresh Herbs are Best: Fresh thyme and rosemary truly elevate the flavor of this dish. If you must use dried herbs, use about half the amount and add them earlier in the cooking process to allow their flavors to fully develop.
5. Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Monterey Jack, Fontina, or even a touch of smoked Gouda can add interesting flavor dimensions. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well for a smooth and creamy sauce.
6. Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the scalloped potatoes up to a day ahead of time. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding about 15-20 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator. This is a great time-saver when preparing for Easter dinner.
7. Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can increase the flour slightly (by 1 tablespoon) or simmer the sauce for a bit longer to reduce it. For a thinner sauce, add a splash more milk or cream.
8. Broil for Extra Browning (Optional): If you like a deeply golden and crispy top, you can broil the scalloped potatoes for the last few minutes of baking. Watch them very closely to prevent burning, as broiling can quickly brown the top.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Cheesy Easter Scalloped Potatoes

Q1: Can I make these scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the scalloped potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed, adding approximately 15-20 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.

Q2: Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?

A: While freshly grated cheese is always recommended for the best melting and flavor, you can use pre-shredded cheese for convenience. However, be aware that pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can sometimes affect the smoothness of the sauce. For best results, grate your own cheese.

Q3: Can I use different types of potatoes?

A: Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are highly recommended for scalloped potatoes due to their texture and starch content. You can experiment with other varieties, but avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes as they don’t release enough starch for the sauce to thicken properly. A mix of Yukon Golds and Russets can also work well.

Q4: What if my cheese sauce is too thick or too thin?

A: If your cheese sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a splash more milk or cream, whisking until it reaches your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce it slightly, or whisk in a slurry of 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water and simmer for a minute until thickened.

Q5: Can I freeze leftover scalloped potatoes?

A: Freezing scalloped potatoes is not recommended as the creamy sauce can separate and become grainy upon thawing and reheating. For the best texture and flavor, it’s best to enjoy them fresh or as leftovers within a few days of making them.

Q6: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

A: While this recipe is for classic cheesy scalloped potatoes, you can certainly add other vegetables. Consider adding thinly sliced onions, leeks, or even some sautéed mushrooms layered with the potatoes. Be mindful that adding extra vegetables may require slightly longer baking time.

Q7: How do I know when the scalloped potatoes are done?

A: The scalloped potatoes are done when the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden brown and bubbly. The internal temperature should reach at least 200°F (93°C). If the top is browning too quickly before the potatoes are tender, you can loosely cover the dish with foil to prevent over-browning and continue baking until the potatoes are cooked through.

Q8: Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

A: Making this recipe completely dairy-free or vegan would require significant substitutions. You would need to use plant-based milk and cream alternatives, vegan butter, and vegan cheese. While it’s possible to adapt the recipe, the flavor and texture will be different from traditional cheesy scalloped potatoes. There are vegan scalloped potato recipes available online that are specifically designed to be dairy-free and vegan.

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