Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes (about 900 g / 2 pounds), peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced into rings
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42 g)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (24 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups whole milk (480 ml), room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded (about 170 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon additional salt, or to taste
- Nonstick cooking spray for the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly coat an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish, slightly overlapping the slices.
- Add a layer of onion rings evenly over the potatoes.
- Place the remaining potato slices on top, overlapping slightly.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the flour and kosher salt and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cook the mixture for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until thick and creamy.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Pour the hot cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes and onions.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 85–90 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Remove the foil and broil for 2–4 minutes to create a lightly golden top.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Slice potatoes evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for creamy texture.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Additional cheese can be sprinkled on top for a thicker golden crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg