Looking for a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and downright irresistible? This scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder is exactly what you need. With layers of tender potatoes smothered in a velvety cheese sauce, this recipe is as delicious as it is easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or special holiday dinners, it brings the bold, tangy flavor of cheese powder right into the spotlight.
This guide will walk you through everything—from ingredients and tools to tips for making it perfect. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder is sure to impress. Let’s dive into this cheesy goodness!
Table of contents
What Are Scalloped Potatoes with Cheese Powder?
Why Use Cheese Powder in Scalloped Potatoes?
Using cheese powder in scalloped potatoes is a bit like taking a shortcut—but one that makes the dish even better. Think about it: no melting blocks of cheese or worrying about clumps in your sauce. Cheese powder blends smoothly into the creamy base, giving every layer of potatoes that bold, cheesy goodness. Plus, it’s super convenient. Got a last-minute dinner to throw together? Cheese powder to the rescue!
And let’s not forget the flavor. Unlike fresh cheese, which can sometimes mellow out when baked, cheese powder packs a punch. It’s tangy, salty, and downright addictive. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a holiday spread, scalloped potatoes with cheese powder are a win-win.
The Unique Texture and Flavor of This Recipe
What makes this scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder so special? It’s all about the layers. The thinly sliced potatoes bake up soft and creamy, soaking in the cheesy sauce as they cook. And that sauce? It’s velvety smooth, thanks to the cheese powder’s magic.
The top layer gets golden and bubbly, creating a slight crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes underneath. It’s the kind of dish that has everyone going back for seconds (or thirds). Seriously, once you try this, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with block cheese in the first place.
Key Ingredients for the Scalloped Potatoes Recipe with Cheese Powder
Ingredients for Scalloped Potatoes Recipe with Cheese Powder
Here’s the complete ingredients list to make your scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder:
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly (about 1/8-inch thick)
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- ½ cup cheese powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (for garnish)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Crumbled bacon or diced ham (for extra flavor)
- Panko breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)
Equipment Needed
- Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
- Medium saucepan for the cheese sauce
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Whisk for a smooth sauce
Potatoes – Choosing the Right Kind
The star of any scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder is, of course, the potatoes. But not all potatoes are created equal! For this recipe, you’ll want to use russet potatoes. They’re starchy and bake up beautifully tender, absorbing all that cheesy goodness. Their high starch content helps thicken the sauce while keeping the layers soft and creamy.
Don’t have russets? Yukon Gold potatoes are a decent backup. They’re slightly waxy, but they still hold up well in this dish. Just steer clear of red potatoes—they can get a bit too firm and won’t give you that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Cheese Powder and Its Benefits
Here’s where the magic happens. Cheese powder is the secret ingredient that sets this recipe apart. Unlike traditional shredded cheese, cheese powder dissolves easily into a creamy sauce. It blends perfectly with milk and butter, creating a smooth, flavorful base for your scalloped potatoes.
What’s even better? Cheese powder is shelf-stable and super convenient to have on hand. No shredding, no grating, no melting—just bold, cheesy flavor in every bite. Look for high-quality cheese powder, preferably one made with real cheese, to get the best results.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
Want to take your scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder to the next level? Toss in some extras like:
- Garlic: Minced garlic sautéed in butter adds a punch of flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: Sprinkle it on top for a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
- Chopped Herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme can brighten up the dish.
These little touches can make a big difference, especially if you’re serving this dish for a special occasion.
Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
Kitchen Essentials for Preparation
Making a scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder doesn’t require a ton of fancy gadgets, but a few key tools will make your life easier. First up, a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer is essential for cutting the potatoes into thin, even slices. Even slices = even cooking!
You’ll also need a medium saucepan to whip up that creamy cheese sauce. A whisk is your best friend here, ensuring a lump-free sauce. Finally, a 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect for layering the potatoes and cheese sauce. Bonus points if it’s oven-to-table friendly—it’ll save you some cleanup!
Optional Tools for Efficiency
If you want to save time (and who doesn’t?), consider a mandoline slicer for those potatoes. It makes quick work of slicing and ensures every piece is the same thickness. And don’t forget measuring cups and spoons—baking (and cooking) is all about precision.
Lastly, stock up on some parchment paper or aluminum foil to cover your dish while it bakes. This step keeps the potatoes from drying out and helps the cheese sauce soak into every layer.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Scalloped Potatoes
Preparing the Potatoes
The first step in any scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder is getting those potatoes ready to shine. Peel your russet potatoes, then slice them into thin rounds—about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform slices ensure even cooking, so if you’ve got a mandoline slicer, now’s the time to pull it out.
As you slice, place the potatoes in a bowl of cold water. This little trick keeps them from turning brown while you work on the cheese sauce. When you’re ready to assemble the dish, pat the potato slices dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Making the Cheese Sauce with Cheese Powder
Now for the fun part: the cheesy magic. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, just until fragrant. Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, whisking constantly to create a smooth roux.
Gradually pour in 2 cups of warm whole milk, whisking as you go to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture for about 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Now, whisk in ½ cup of cheese powder, along with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy, then remove the sauce from heat.
Assembling and Baking the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Layer about a third of the potato slices in the bottom of the dish, overlapping slightly. Pour a third of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Repeat this process twice more, finishing with a layer of cheese sauce on top.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes, letting the top get golden and bubbly. Let the dish cool for 10 minutes before serving—it helps the sauce thicken and keeps those cheesy layers intact.
For more creamy and cheesy comfort food ideas, check out Benigni’s Potato Soup Recipe for a warm, satisfying treat!
Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes with Cheese Powder
How to Achieve Even Slices and Texture
Even slices are key to nailing this scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder. Thicker slices can take longer to cook, while thinner ones may turn mushy. If you don’t have a mandoline slicer, take your time with a sharp knife and aim for consistency.
Another trick? Use starchy potatoes like russets. They absorb the cheese sauce beautifully, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love. And don’t forget to pat the slices dry before layering—this keeps the sauce from getting watered down.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Don’t rush the roux. Cooking the flour and butter for a full minute ensures there’s no raw, floury taste in your cheese sauce.
- Warm the milk. Adding cold milk to your roux can cause clumps. Warm milk blends much more smoothly.
- Layer evenly. Overlapping the potatoes slightly and spreading the cheese sauce evenly ensures every bite is flavorful.
Customizing the Recipe for Your Taste
This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Want a smoky kick? Sprinkle smoked paprika on top before baking. Need a bit of crunch? Add a handful of panko breadcrumbs during the final 10 minutes of baking.
For more ways to customize your dishes, check out Southern Cornbread Recipe with Beef Tallow for another comforting side dish!
Variations of Scalloped Potatoes with Cheese Powder
Vegan and Dairy-Free Alternatives
Believe it or not, you can totally whip up a dairy-free version of this scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder. Start by using plant-based butter and substitute the whole milk with unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
For the cheese sauce, look for vegan cheese powder or a dairy-free cheese blend that melts easily. The process is pretty much the same—create the roux with vegan butter, whisk in the milk alternative, and stir in the vegan cheese powder. The result? A creamy, cheesy dish that’s perfect for plant-based eaters.
Holiday-Themed Scalloped Potatoes
Make your scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder stand out on the holiday table by adding festive ingredients. For Thanksgiving, toss in roasted sweet potato slices or garnish with toasted pecans. At Christmas, a sprinkle of red and green bell peppers adds a pop of color.
For Easter, layer in asparagus spears or spring peas for a fresh, seasonal touch. These little tweaks not only make the dish look stunning but also add new dimensions of flavor.
For more creative side dishes, check out our Peach Crumble Recipe for a sweet addition to your meal!
FAQs About Scalloped Potatoes with Cheese Powder
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This scalloped potatoes recipe with cheese powder is a great make-ahead dish. Assemble everything in your baking dish (but don’t bake it yet), cover it tightly with foil, and pop it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge—just add an extra 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
Leftovers are just as delicious! To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. For single servings, the microwave works too—just heat in 30-second bursts to avoid drying it out.
Are There Gluten-Free Options?
Yes! If you’re gluten-sensitive, swap the all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use half the amount). Be sure to check that your cheese powder is also gluten-free.
What Kind of Potatoes Work Best?
As mentioned earlier, russet potatoes are your best bet for this recipe. They’re starchy, absorb the cheese sauce beautifully, and bake up tender and creamy. Yukon Golds can also work in a pinch if you prefer a slightly firmer texture.
For more cooking tips, check out Rice Hack Recipe to perfect other comforting dishes!