Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Perfect Thanksgiving Side

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food dish, and they make a welcome addition to any Thanksgiving feast. Creamy, cheesy, and undeniably satisfying, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that complements the traditional turkey and stuffing beautifully. This guide will walk you through creating the perfect cheesy scalloped potatoes for your Thanksgiving table, covering everything from ingredient selection to foolproof baking techniques.

Why Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Belong on Your Thanksgiving Table

Thanksgiving is all about abundance and comforting flavors. While classics like mashed potatoes and sweet potato casserole are staples, cheesy scalloped potatoes offer a rich and decadent alternative that will tantalize taste buds.

• A Luxurious Contrast: The creamy, cheesy sauce provides a delightful contrast to the drier textures of turkey and stuffing.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of potatoes, cream, and cheese is universally appealing, making it a safe bet for even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Pairing: Cheesy scalloped potatoes pair well with almost any Thanksgiving side, from green bean casserole to cranberry sauce.
• Make-Ahead Potential: This dish can be partially or fully prepared ahead of time, freeing up precious oven space and minimizing stress on Thanksgiving Day.

Selecting the Right Ingredients for Thanksgiving Success

The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the final result. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients for truly exceptional cheesy scalloped potatoes:

Choosing Your Potatoes

The type of potato you select is crucial.

• Yukon Gold: These potatoes offer a creamy texture and buttery flavor that works perfectly in scalloped potatoes. They hold their shape well without becoming mushy.
• Russet: While Russets can be used, they have a higher starch content and may require a bit more liquid to achieve the desired creamy consistency. Be careful not to overcook them.
• Red Potatoes: Red potatoes are not ideal for scalloped potatoes as they tend to hold their shape too well and don’t absorb the sauce as readily.

For the best results, stick with Yukon Gold potatoes.

Cheese, Cream and Flavor Boosters

• Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is a classic choice, providing a bold and tangy flavor. Gruyere cheese adds a nutty and complex dimension. A combination of both is highly recommended. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it contains cellulose which prevents proper melting.
• Cream: Heavy cream is essential for creating a rich and luscious sauce. Half-and-half can be used for a slightly lighter version, but the flavor and texture won’t be quite as decadent.
• Aromatics: Onions and garlic are the foundation of the flavor base. Sauté them in butter until softened before adding the cream.
• Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg enhance the overall flavor profile. Smoked paprika can add a subtle smoky undertone.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for sautéing the aromatics and greasing the baking dish.

Optional Additions for Extra Flair

• Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky and savory element.
• Ham: Diced ham can transform this side into a heartier dish.
• Jalapeños: For a touch of heat, finely chopped jalapeños can be incorporated into the sauce.
• Fresh Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, or parsley can be added for a fresh and aromatic touch.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cheesy Scalloped Potato Perfection

Follow these steps for perfectly cooked, creamy, and cheesy scalloped potatoes:

1. Prep the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. A mandoline slicer can ensure even thickness, promoting even cooking. Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large saucepan or skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Create the Cream Sauce: Whisk flour into the sautéed aromatics and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.

4. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.

5. Assemble the Dish: Drain the sliced potatoes and pat them dry. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Layer the potato slices in the dish, overlapping them slightly. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes, ensuring they are well coated.

6. Bake to Golden Perfection: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.

7. Rest and Serve: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips and Tricks for Cheesy Scalloped Potato Excellence

• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will become mushy and lose their texture. The potatoes should be tender but still hold their shape.
• Use a Mandoline Slicer: A mandoline slicer ensures even thickness, which is crucial for even cooking.
• Prevent Browning: Soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water helps prevent browning and removes excess starch.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly. Grating your own cheese ensures a smooth and creamy sauce.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to thicken it.
• Make Ahead of Time: Cheesy scalloped potatoes can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze leftover scalloped potatoes. Be aware that the texture may change slightly after thawing. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes FAQs

• Can I use milk instead of cream? While you can use milk, the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For the best results, use heavy cream.
• Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian. Just ensure your cheese is rennet-free if you are strictly vegetarian.
• Can I add meat to this dish? Absolutely! Cooked bacon, ham, or sausage are great additions. Add them to the potato layers or stir them into the cheese sauce.
• How do I prevent the potatoes from browning on top? Cover the dish with foil during the first part of baking. Remove the foil during the last 15-20 minutes to allow the top to brown.
• What kind of cheese is best for scalloped potatoes? Sharp cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked Gouda can be used for different flavor profiles.
• Why are my scalloped potatoes watery? This could be due to using too much liquid or not cooking the sauce long enough to thicken. Make sure to drain the potatoes well and simmer the sauce until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Can I use frozen potatoes? While fresh potatoes are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen sliced potatoes in a pinch. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.