How To Cook Omaha Steak Scalloped Potatoes In Oven

You’ve got a box of Omaha Steak scalloped potatoes in your fridge, and you’re ready to cook them. Learning how to cook Omaha Steak scalloped potatoes in oven is simple, and this guide will walk you through every step for a perfect result.

These potatoes are a convenient side dish that delivers classic, creamy flavor. With a little preparation, you can have them ready to serve alongside your favorite main course. Let’s get started with what you’ll need and how to prepare them.

This is the core method for baking your scalloped potatoes. Following these instructions carefully ensures a creamy, fully cooked dish with a beautifully golden top. The process is straightforward, but paying attention to details makes a big difference.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Gathering your tools and ingredients first makes the whole process smoother. You won’t need much beyond what’s in the package.

Omaha Steak Scalloped Potatoes: One package, thawed. Check the “Thawing Instructions” section below if it’s still frozen.
Baking Dish: An 8×8 inch or similar 2-quart oven-safe dish is ideal. Glass or ceramic works best.
Aluminum Foil: To cover the dish during most of the baking time.
Cooking Spray, Butter, or Oil: For greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking.
Oven: Preheated to the correct temperature.
Measuring Cup: For the water or milk you’ll add.
Fork or Spoon: For stirring the mixture before baking.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Follow these numbered steps for the best outcome. Do not microwave the potatoes, as the oven is required for the proper texture.

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Let it heat fully while you prepare the dish.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease your 8×8 inch baking dish with butter, cooking spray, or a small amount of oil. This prevents the cheese and sauce from sticking to the sides and bottom.
Empty the Packages: Open the box and remove the main bag of potatoes and the cheese sauce packet. Pour the frozen (or thawed) potato slices into the greased baking dish. Spread them out into a mostly even layer.
Add the Liquid: Empty the entire cheese sauce packet over the potatoes. Then, pour ¾ cup of hot water (or milk for a richer taste) over the top. The instructions on the box may specify water, but milk is a common and tasty substitution.
Mix Gently: Use a fork or spoon to gently stir and combine the potatoes, cheese sauce, and liquid. Try to coat all the potato slices. They won’t be perfectly arranged, and that’s fine.
Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the center of your preheated oven. Bake covered for 40 minutes.
Uncover and Finish Baking: After 40 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Remove the foil (watch for steam!). Stir the potatoes gently. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 20 to 30 minutes.
Check for Doneness: The potatoes are done when they are tender when pierced with a fork, the sauce is bubbly, and the top has developed golden brown spots. If the top isn’t as brown as you’d like after 30 minutes, you can broil for 1-2 minutes, but watch it closely!
Rest Before Serving: Once out of the oven, let the scalloped potatoes rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving easier.

Thawing Instructions (If Frozen)

For the best texture, it’s recommended to thaw the potatoes before cooking. Here’s how to do it safely.

Refrigerator Thawing (Best Method): Place the unopened box in your refrigerator for 24 hours before you plan to cook them. This slow thaw keeps everything at a safe temperature.
Quick Thaw Method: If you forgot to thaw, you can place the sealed bag of potatoes in a bowl of cold water for about 30-60 minutes. Change the water every 20 minutes. Do not use warm water, as it can start cooking the potatoes unevenly.
Do Not Thaw at Room Temperature: Leaving the package on the counter for hours is not food-safe, as the potatoes can enter the “danger zone” where bacteria grows quickly.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes Every Time

A few extra pointers can help you avoid common pitfalls and customize the dish to your taste.

Use Hot Liquid: Adding hot water or milk helps maintain the oven temperature and starts the cooking process faster.
Don’t Skip the Stir: Stirring at the 40-minute mark is crucial. It redistributes the sauce and ensures even cooking, preventing dry spots.
Adjust Baking Time: All ovens vary. If your potatoes seem very liquidy after the uncovered bake, give them a few more minutes. If the top is browning too fast, you can loosely tent it with foil again.
Add Your Own Twist: Feel free to add a sprinkle of paprika, garlic powder, or black pepper before baking. You can also mix in some shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese during the stir for extra cheesiness.
Check the Center: Make sure you test a potato slice from the center of the dish for tenderness, as the edges cook faster.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here’s what might happen and how to correct it.

Potatoes Are Still Hard: This means they need more time. Cover them back up with foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, then check again. Ensure you used hot liquid.
Sauce is Too Thin/Runny: Let the potatoes rest longer after baking—the sauce will thicken as it cools slightly. Also, ensure you baked them uncovered for the full time, as this reduces the liquid.
Top Isn’t Browned: If the potatoes are tender but pale, switch your oven to broil for 1-3 minutes. Stay right by the oven and watch constantly to prevent burning.
Edges Are Burning: Your oven might have hot spots. Next time, try placing the dish on a higher rack or use a light-colored dish. You can also shield the edges with small strips of foil.

Serving Suggestions

Omaha Steak scalloped potatoes are a versatile side. Here are some classic pairings that work really well.

With Steak: Naturally, they’re a perfect partner for Omaha Steaks filet mignon, sirloin, or ribeye.
With Pork: Serve alongside pork chops, a pork loin roast, or even grilled ham steaks.
With Chicken: They complement roasted chicken, baked chicken breasts, or even fried chicken beautifully.
Holiday Meals: These potatoes are a great addition to Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas dinner tables alongside turkey or ham.
With Greens: Balance the rich potatoes with a simple side salad, steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers, you can store them for later. Proper handling keeps them safe and tasty.

Cooling: Let the potatoes cool to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking.
Refrigeration: Transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze them for up to 2 months. Store in a freezer-safe container. Note that the texture of the potatoes may become slightly softer upon reheating.
Reheating in Oven (Best Method): Preheat oven to 350°F. Place potatoes in an oven-safe dish, add a splash of milk or water, and cover with foil. Heat for 20-30 minutes until hot all the way through.
Reheating in Microwave: Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely. Heat on medium power in 60-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated thoroughly.

FAQ Section

Can I cook Omaha Steak scalloped potatoes from frozen?

Yes, you can, but it’s not recommended. Baking from frozen will require a longer cooking time—often an additional 15 to 25 minutes—and the results can be uneven. The potatoes on the edges may overcook before the center is tender. Thawing first gives you the best, most consistent texture.

What is the oven temp for Omaha Steaks scalloped potatoes?

The standard oven temperature for cooking Omaha Steak scalloped potatoes is 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps cook the potatoes thoroughly and creates a nice browned top during the final uncovered bake.

How long do you bake Omaha Steak potatoes?

The total bake time is typically 60 to 70 minutes. This includes 40 minutes covered with foil, followed by 20 to 30 minutes uncovered. Always check for tenderness with a fork as your final guide, as oven temperatures can vary a bit.

Can I add other ingredients to my scalloped potatoes?

Absolutely. You can customize them easily. Before baking, try adding a layer of thinly sliced onions, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or some chopped ham. You can also mix in extra shredded cheese like cheddar or gruyere when you stir at the 40-minute mark.

Why are my scalloped potatoes watery?

Watery potatoes are usually caused by not baking them uncovered for long enough. The uncovered phase is crucial for evaporating excess liquid. Also, make sure you are using the correct amount of liquid (¾ cup) and that your oven is fully preheated to the right temperature.

Are Omaha Steak scalloped potatoes gluten-free?

You should check the specific product packaging for the most accurate and current ingredient information. Formulas can change, so the package label is the best source for allergen and dietary details.

Final Thoughts

Cooking Omaha Steak scalloped potatoes in your oven is a reliable way to prepare a delicious side dish. By following the basic steps—thawing, using a hot liquid, covering then uncovering to bake—you’ll get a creamy, satisfying result. Remember to let them rest before serving, and don’t be afraid to add your personal touch with extra seasonings or cheese.

With this guide, you have all the information you need for perfect potatoes. They’re a convenient option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Just keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to get that ideal golden finish, and you’ll be ready to serve a classic comfort food everyone will enjoy.