Are you craving a dish that's both incredibly comforting and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these creamy, dreamy scalloped potatoes with Velveeta cheese! This classic comfort food is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Forget complicated recipes; this one is surprisingly simple, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort. Get ready to experience the ultimate cheesy potato goodness! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes, healthy meals (relatively!), and quick dinner ideas. It's a true testament to the magic of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This is a crucial step for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Prepare the Potatoes: Evenly slice your potatoes. Using a mandoline slicer will ensure consistent thickness, leading to even cooking. Soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water for about 15 minutes helps remove excess starch and prevents them from becoming gummy.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
Assemble and Bake: Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 20 minutes of baking.
Rest and Serve: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes for easier serving. Enjoy this delicious dish as a side or a main course. It's a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or paprika to the cheese sauce.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Make it vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly!
- Add some veggies: Sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added to the layers for extra flavor and texture.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Gruyere.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This scalloped potato recipe with Velveeta is a guaranteed hit, offering a delightful balance of creamy cheese and tender potatoes. It’s a recipe that's both simple and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's one of the best recipes for easy, delicious meals you'll find! Enjoy!