Oven Baked Creamy Cheddar Potatoes

Oven Baked Creamy Cheddar Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. This rich and creamy dish combines layers of tender potatoes, velvety cheese sauce, and hints of seasonings to create a delightful and satisfying side that pairs beautifully with any main course. It’s easy to make and an absolute hit with both kids and adults!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Oven Baked Creamy Cheddar Potatoes recipe offers a delicious, cheesy indulgence that everyone will love. The creamy texture, combined with the sharpness of cheddar cheese, will make this dish a staple in your home. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted chicken or grilled steaks, it’s guaranteed to elevate any meal. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones.

Ingredients

To prepare this mouthwatering dish, you will need the following ingredients:

6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup sour cream

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)
Nonstick cooking spray or extra butter for greasing

Directions

Follow these easy steps to make your Oven Baked Creamy Cheddar Potatoes:

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add flour and whisk for about 1 minute to form a roux.

Step 3: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in sour cream, 1 and 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 5: In the greased baking dish, layer half the sliced potatoes and sprinkle with half the chopped onion.

Step 6: Pour half the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onion, and cheese sauce.
Step 7: Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Step 8: Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 9: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Oven Baked Creamy Cheddar Potatoes

For an extra cheesy flavor, mix different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, with the cheddar.
Ensure the potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly for consistent cooking. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for uniform slices.

Use a high-quality sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor.
If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
To make this dish faster, you can partially cook the potatoes in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes before layering them.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance, cover, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

2. Can I freeze the creamy cheddar potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Ensure it’s fully cooled before transferring it to an airtight container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.

3. What can I serve with these potatoes?

Oven Baked Creamy Cheddar Potatoes pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roast chicken, grilled steak, or a hearty salad.

4. How long do leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover creamy cheddar potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.

5. Can I use other types of potatoes?

While russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starch content, you can try Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly different texture.

Conclusion

This Oven Baked Creamy Cheddar Potatoes recipe is a superb choice for any meal. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Try it tonight and enjoy a comforting, delicious side dish.