Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Introduction

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort-food side dish, delivering layers of thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. Baked to golden, bubbling perfection, each bite is creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly indulgent. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday feast, a cozy family dinner, or alongside a weeknight meal, these scalloped potatoes are guaranteed to be a standout on any table.

The first time I made these, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients—potatoes, cheese, and cream—could come together to create something so decadent. As they baked, the kitchen filled with the warm, mouthwatering aroma of melted cheese and perfectly tender potatoes. By the time they came out of the oven, golden and bubbly, I knew they were destined to be a family favorite.

What I love most about Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is their versatility. You can customize them with different cheeses, add a hint of garlic for extra depth, or even layer in crispy bacon for a smoky twist. No matter how you make them, this classic dish is always a comforting and satisfying addition to any meal.

Perfect for:

• Holiday gatherings
• Sunday dinners
• Comfort food cravings
• Potluck parties
• Steak or roast dinners

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Here’s why Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes will be your go-to side dish:

• Ultra Creamy and Cheesy: Each bite is loaded with velvety cheese sauce and tender potatoes.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A universally loved dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance and bake when needed.
• Customizable: Experiment with different cheeses and seasonings for a unique flavor.
• Pairs Well with Everything: Goes great with meats, vegetables, and even brunch dishes.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Carbs: 45g, Fat: 20g, Protein: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

• 2 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

• Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes: Provide a tender texture while holding their shape.
• Heavy Cream and Milk: Create a rich and creamy sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharp, melty goodness to every bite.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: Enhance the savory depth of flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: A flavorful topping that forms a golden crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Slice the Potatoes: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to slice potatoes evenly, about ⅛ inch thick.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

3. Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
4. Whisk in Flour: Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
5. Add Milk and Cream: Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce.
6. Season the Sauce: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper.
7. Melt the Cheese: Reduce heat to low and add 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.

Assemble the Dish:

8. Layer the Potatoes: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the greased baking dish.
9. Pour Half the Sauce: Evenly spread half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
10. Repeat the Layers: Add the remaining potatoes and top with the rest of the sauce.

Bake the Potatoes:

11. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
12. Add Parmesan Topping: Remove the foil, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
13. Check for Doneness: A knife should easily pierce through the potatoes when done.

Garnish and Serve:

14. Let it Rest: Allow the dish to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
15. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Classic Side Dish – Serve hot alongside roasted meats like ham, steak, turkey, or chicken for a comforting and hearty meal.
• Brunch Favorite – Pair with scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit for a decadent breakfast or brunch option.
• Loaded Topping – Elevate the dish by adding toppings like crispy bacon bits, chives, sour cream, or extra shredded cheese just before serving.
• Holiday Feast Essential – Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinner alongside traditional favorites like stuffing and green beans.
• With a Fresh Salad – Balance the richness by serving with a light garden salad or Caesar salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette.
• As a Casserole Base – Turn it into a full meal by mixing in cooked shredded chicken, ground beef, or ham, then baking until bubbly.
• With Barbecue – A great complement to smoky, grilled dishes like BBQ ribs, pulled pork, or grilled sausages.
• French-Inspired Twist – Serve alongside a juicy steak and sautéed mushrooms for a bistro-style dinner.
• Topped with Fried Eggs – For a hearty breakfast-for-dinner idea, add a fried or poached egg on top and let the yolk mix into the creamy potatoes.
• In a Bread Bowl – For an indulgent serving idea, scoop warm scalloped potatoes into a hollowed-out crusty bread bowl and garnish with fresh herbs.

Additional Tips for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Use the Right Potatoes – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best. Yukon Golds hold their shape and have a creamy texture, while Russets become softer and absorb flavors well.
• Slice Thin and Even – Cut the potatoes into ⅛-inch thick slices using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to ensure even cooking and a perfect texture.
• Soak the Potatoes – Rinse or soak the potato slices in cold water for 10–15 minutes to remove excess starch. This helps prevent a gummy texture. Pat them dry before layering.
• Layer Cheese Between Slices – Instead of just sprinkling cheese on top, add a little cheese between the layers for maximum cheesiness in every bite.
• Use a Mix of Cheeses – Combine cheeses like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan, or mozzarella for a deeper, more complex flavor. Gruyère adds a nutty richness!
• Make a Roux for the Sauce – For a smooth, creamy cheese sauce, melt butter, whisk in flour, then slowly add warm milk or cream before adding cheese. This prevents a grainy texture.
• Season Every Layer – Lightly sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme between layers for well-balanced flavor throughout.
• Bake Covered First, Then Uncover – Cover with foil for the first 40 minutes to keep moisture in and prevent burning. Remove the foil for the last 20–30 minutes for a golden, bubbly top.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – Allow the dish to sit for 10–15 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken and makes slicing easier.
• Make It Ahead – Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding extra time if baking straight from the fridge.

Recipe Variations for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

1. Bacon Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes: Add crispy bacon pieces for a smoky flavor.
2. Three-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes: Use a mix of cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella.
3. Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: Increase garlic and use only Parmesan cheese for a bold flavor.
4. Spicy Jalapeño Potatoes: Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
5. Herb-Infused Potatoes: Mix in rosemary, thyme, or sage for an aromatic touch.
6. Creamy Mushroom Potatoes: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth.
7. Mexican-Style Potatoes: Use pepper jack cheese and top with fresh cilantro.
8. Pesto Scalloped Potatoes: Swirl in basil pesto for a fresh, herbaceous twist.
9. Buffalo Cheesy Potatoes: Mix in buffalo sauce for a tangy, spicy version.
10. Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Assemble the dish but do not bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 hour.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave in short intervals.

Special Equipment for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Mandoline slicer (for even potato slices)
• Sharp knife
• Large saucepan
• Whisk
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Foil (for covering during baking)

FAQ for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

1. Can I use different cheeses? Yes! Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella all work well.
2. Why are my potatoes not soft? Ensure they are sliced thinly and fully submerged in the sauce. Covering with foil helps steam them.
3. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance, then bake when ready.
4. What’s the difference between scalloped and au gratin potatoes? Au gratin potatoes include breadcrumbs and more cheese layers, while scalloped potatoes have a creamy sauce with less cheese inside.
5. Can I add protein? Yes, cooked ham, shredded chicken, or ground beef can be layered in for a heartier dish.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish—rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy. Whether served at a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this dish is always a standout. With its golden, bubbly top and tender, thinly sliced layers of potatoes, every bite is packed with creamy, cheesy goodness.

Simple to prepare yet full of flavor, this dish pairs beautifully with everything from roasted meats to vegetable sides. The combination of melty cheese, velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked potatoes makes it a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

I can’t wait to see your Cheesy Scalloped Potato creations! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your take on this classic dish. Don’t forget to share your favorite variations in the comments. Happy cooking!