Ingredients
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups half and half
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Topping and Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (⅛-inch slices)
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350℉ (175℃). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch or 3-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter until fully liquefied, preparing for the roux base of the cheese sauce.
- Add Flour: Whisk in 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour to the melted butter and cook for 1 minute while whisking constantly to remove raw flour taste and form a smooth roux.
- Incorporate Half and Half: Gradually add 2½ cups half and half a little at a time while whisking continuously. Continue cooking for 5 to 8 minutes until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
- Season Sauce: Stir in 2 tablespoons dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon dried rosemary to infuse the sauce with flavor.
- Add Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, creating a rich cheese sauce.
- Layer Potatoes: Arrange the peeled and thinly sliced russet potatoes in rows in the prepared baking dish, similar to fallen dominoes, ensuring even layering for consistent cooking.
- Assemble Dish: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes to allow potatoes to cook through and absorb the cheesy sauce.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and the potatoes are fork tender.
- Rest and Serve: Let the scalloped potatoes rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly for easier slicing and enhanced flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use a mandolin slicer to achieve consistent ⅛-inch potato slices that cook evenly.
- Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture which yields a creamy and tender final dish.
- Covering the dish with foil during the initial bake prevents the top from burning and helps the potatoes cook properly.
- Letting the dish rest before serving allows the sauce to thicken and makes serving easier.
- You can substitute half and half with whole milk and heavy cream mixed for similar creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American