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Masala Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

4.9 from 143 reviews

Masala Scalloped Potatoes is a flavorful fusion dish that combines classic creamy scalloped potatoes with aromatic Indian spices. Layers of thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes are smothered in a spiced masala cheese sauce made with a blend of coriander, cumin, turmeric, and garam masala, then baked to golden perfection with a sharp cheddar cheese topping. This comforting, savory casserole offers a unique twist on a traditional favorite, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and creamy textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, sliced 1/8″ thick

Spiced Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 green chili (or serrano chili), finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped

Fat & Oil

  • 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (additional)

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

Sauce Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup for sauce, 1 cup for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Instructions

  1. Prep: Slice the Yukon gold potatoes into 1/8″ slices. Chop the garlic, finely chop the onion, green bell pepper, and green chili (or serrano). Grate 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat a pan over low-medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. Add chopped garlic and sauté briefly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped green bell pepper, onion, and chili to the pan. Increase heat to medium, season lightly with salt, and sauté until caramelized, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add Spices and Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste along with coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and cardamom powder. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent the spices from burning.
  5. Make Roux: Lower the heat to low-medium. Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the pan and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt, then add flour. Cook the roux for 1 minute while stirring to help thicken the sauce.
  6. Add Milk and Thicken Sauce: Slowly pour in the milk while stirring continuously to avoid lumps or curdling. Let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes while stirring until it thickens.
  7. Add Cheese and Garam Masala: Reduce heat to low. Gradually add 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Stir in the garam masala to complete the masala cheese sauce.
  8. Assemble the Dish: Lightly spray or grease your baking trays with avocado oil. Layer 2 slices of potatoes evenly in the trays, then ladle some masala sauce over them to coat. Add another 2 layers of potatoes and top with more masala sauce.
  9. Add Cheese Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour. Begin checking at 50 minutes to ensure the potatoes are tender and fully cooked.
  10. Rest and Serve: Remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly and flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Use Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture; Russets can be used but may alter creaminess.
  • Adjust the green chili quantity according to your spice preference or substitute with a milder pepper.
  • To avoid curdling when adding milk and cheese, ensure continuous stirring over moderate heat.
  • This dish can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
  • Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven.

Keywords: masala scalloped potatoes, Indian fusion casserole, creamy spiced potatoes, baked potato casserole, cheesy mashed potatoes with spices