Paula Deen Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Paula Deen’s scalloped potatoes is a delicious dish that offers a comforting and creamy taste.

She has tender potato slices mingled with rich cheeses, which makes it a side that really stands out with any meal.

When I make this, I always preheat the oven to 300°F and cook the onions in butter until soft for extra flavor.

Another key trick is to be generous with the cheese layers because they form a wonderfully crispy top during baking.

How to Make Paula Deen Scalloped Potatoes

Ingredients

• 4 lbs. Yukon Gold Potatoes (thinly sliced)
• ½ tsp Salt
• ¼ tsp Pepper
• ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• ¼ cup Cheddar Cheese (grated)
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 1 cup Onion (chopped)
• 2 tbsp All-purpose Flour
• 2 cups Milk
• Fresh Chives (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish lightly.

Step 2:

Melt the butter over medium heat in a large skillet.

Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 3:

Sprinkle the onions with flour and stir for 2 minutes.

Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring frequently for 8-10 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Step 4:

Stir in the Parmesan and Cheddar cheeses with salt and pepper until smooth.

Layer half the sliced potatoes in the baking dish, pour half the cream sauce over them, and repeat layers.

Step 5:

Cover and bake for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake until golden brown and tender, about 15 more minutes.

Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives if desired.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Right Potato

I always prefer Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery flavor and creamy texture when baked.

They hold their shape well during cooking and offer a subtle sweetness that complements the cheese sauce beautifully.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

When stirring in the milk to your roux, make sure to whisk constantly to avoid lumps.

This helps achieve a smooth, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to your potatoes.

Layering for Full Flavor

Layering the sliced potatoes and sauce allows the flavors to meld together as they bake.

Make sure each potato slice is coated with that cheesy sauce for the best flavor in every bite.

Resting Time is Key

Although it’s tempting to dig in right away, allow the dish to rest for five minutes after baking.

This resting period helps the sauce thicken further and lets the flavors come together perfectly.

Topping Ideas

For an extra kick, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne on top before serving.

This adds a fun pop of color and slight heat to your scalloped potatoes.

What to Serve with Paula Deen Scalloped Potatoes

Pair with Ham

You know, scalloped potatoes and ham are a classic duo that always hits the spot.

The salty, smoky flavor of ham complements the rich, cheesy potatoes beautifully.

Try it for your next dinner!

Beef Varieties

Now, if you’re leaning towards beef, think about serving something special like beef tenderloin.

Its robust, savory taste pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.

Or try a hearty meatloaf to add a bit of a homestyle flair to your meal.

Roast Chicken

For a lighter option, roast chicken works wonders!

This choice is fabulous if you want something less intense than red meat while still enjoying a satisfying meal.

The crispy skin and juicy inside make for a harmonious pairing.

Green Beans Almondine

How about something more vibrant?

Green beans almondine—a simple yet elegant dish—can add freshness to your plate.

The crunch of almonds, butter, and a hint of lemon really brighten up the creamy potatoes.

Sauteed Mushrooms

And if you’re in the mood for something a little out of the ordinary, sautéed mushrooms are an excellent choice.

Their earthy flavor adds depth and can be a delightful surprise at the dinner table.

You might be surprised at how well they complement each other.

Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Brussels sprouts roasted with crispy bacon are another enticing option.

The slight bitterness of the sprouts paired with the savory bacon makes them an excellent match for creamy, cheesy potatoes.

With these choices, your meal surrounding Paula Deen’s scalloped potatoes will be both tasty and complete.

Variations and Substitutions

Finding a way to make Paula Deen’s scalloped potatoes recipe fit your dietary needs couldn’t be simpler.

Here’s a few ideas to suit different preferences and tastes!

Gluten-Free

Swap regular flour for gluten-free flour or cornstarch to keep your dish gluten-free.

This ensures everyone can enjoy this classic favorite!

Keto-Friendly

If you’re aiming for a low-carb option, replace the potatoes with turnips or rutabaga.

Both add a unique flavor, and you can even mix in some ham for extra protein.

Vegan-Friendly

Switch out the regular milk for almond milk and use vegetable broth for a vegan version of this dish.

Combine with vegan cheese and nutritional yeast to keep it rich and creamy.

Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

For a heartier take, add cooked bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped chives.

It’s comforting and filling, making it perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

How to Store Leftover Paula Deen Scalloped Potatoes

Cool Potatoes Quickly

First, let the scalloped potatoes cool down after serving.

Spreading them in a thin layer can help them cool faster.

Cooling them down quickly prevents any bacterial growth that can happen if left at room temperature.

Use Airtight Containers

You’ll want to transfer the cooled potatoes into airtight containers.

These containers help keep moisture out and preserve the flavor.

Make sure to label your containers with the date they were made for easy tracking.

Refrigerate Promptly

Place the airtight containers in the refrigerator soon after transferring.

Leftover scalloped potatoes should ideally be stored in the fridge within two hours.

This keeps them fresh for up to three to four days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Uneven Potato Slices

You don’t want uneven potato slices, which can lead to inconsistent cooking times and textures.

Try to slice the potatoes as evenly as possible, using a mandoline if you’re comfortable with it.

Insufficient Cheese

It’s essential to use the right amount of cheese.

Underestimating the need for cheese can lead to a less flavorful dish.

Double-check the cheese quantities to make sure they match the recipe.

Overcooking or Undercooking

It’s easy to overcook or undercook scalloped potatoes.

Keep a close eye on the oven.

Check the doneness by poking the potatoes with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy.