Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food side dish, Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are about to become your new go-to recipe. This classic bake combines tender, thinly sliced potatoes with a silky, cheese-laden sauce that bubbles up golden and delicious every time. Whether you’re serving it for a Sunday family dinner, a holiday feast, or just because you’re craving something cozy and irresistible, this dish delivers on every level. Creamy, flavorful, and crowned with a gooey, cheesy top, these scalloped potatoes are impossible to resist!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how such a short ingredient list produces such bold, satisfying flavors. Each item is essential, coming together to create a perfectly balanced side dish that’s equal parts creamy, cheesy, and comforting.
- Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes (2 pounds, peeled and thinly sliced): These varieties bake up tender yet hold their shape, making them ideal for scalloped potatoes.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds rich flavor and helps form the roux for your creamy cheese sauce.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Works with the butter to thicken the sauce, giving it the perfect consistency.
- Whole Milk (2 cups): Delivers a luscious, creamy base for the cheese sauce—don’t skimp on the fat here!
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded (1 cup): Brings bold, tangy flavor and a gooey, melty texture.
- Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (1/2 cup): Adds extra stretch and mild cheesy goodness to complement the cheddar.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the sauce with subtle warmth and depth.
- Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the garlic and enriches the savory notes.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for making the flavors pop.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides just the right touch of gentle heat.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish): A sprinkle of green for a fresh, vibrant finish.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), which is just the right temperature to coax out a bubbly, golden top without drying out the potatoes. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray—this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s just foamy. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s bubbling but not browned—this step is key for a smooth, lump-free sauce. Slowly pour in the whole milk, whisking as you go, and keep stirring until the sauce thickens, about 4 to 5 minutes. Now, add in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Finally, stir in both the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until everything is melty and smooth. This sauce is the heart of Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes!
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Cheese Sauce
Arrange half of your thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the velvety cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it gently with a spatula to make sure every slice gets a generous coating. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and top with the rest of the sauce. These layers guarantee every bite is ultra-creamy and packed with flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 45 minutes. This allows the potatoes to become meltingly tender as they soak up that luscious sauce. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is beautifully golden and the potatoes yield easily to a fork.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Let your Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This short wait helps the sauce set a little, making it easier to slice and serve. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle on some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Garnishes
A finishing touch of chopped fresh parsley not only adds color but also a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness. If you love a bit of crunch, try scattering crispy fried onions or even some crumbled cooked bacon over the top right before serving for extra flavor and texture.
Side Dishes
Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a star side dish that pairs beautifully with everything from classic roast chicken or glazed ham to simple grilled vegetables. For a cozy vegetarian meal, serve them alongside a crisp green salad and some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant twist, spoon portions into individual ramekins for a dinner party-worthy presentation. You can also bake and serve the potatoes directly in a cast-iron skillet for rustic charm, or even use mini muffin tins for bite-sized versions perfect for potlucks or appetizers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before covering tightly with foil or transferring to an airtight container. This helps maintain both flavor and texture.
Freezing
Scalloped potatoes freeze surprisingly well! If you want to make them ahead, bake the dish as directed, let it cool, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply cover the dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For smaller portions, a quick zap in the microwave works too—just add a splash of milk if the potatoes seem dry.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella bring the best of both worlds—flavor and melt—you can swap in Gruyère for a nutty, sophisticated twist, or mix in a little Parmesan for extra depth.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for the creamiest texture, but if you love a bit of rustic charm and added fiber, feel free to leave the skins on, especially with Yukon Gold potatoes.
Can I make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover and refrigerate, and then bake just before serving. This makes it perfect for busy holidays or meal prep.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
Aim for slices about 1/8-inch thick for the best results. A mandoline slicer makes this super easy and ensures even cooking, but a sharp knife and steady hand work too.
What if I want to add extra flavors?
Go for it! Layer in sautéed onions, cooked bacon, or even a handful of spinach between the potatoes for a personalized touch that takes your Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes to the next level.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about pulling a bubbling, golden tray of Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes out of the oven. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that always gets rave reviews, and it’s so easy to make, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. Try it for your next gathering or weeknight dinner, and watch everyone’s faces light up at the first bite!
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Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a creamy, cheesy baked side dish featuring thinly sliced potatoes layered with a rich cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and mozzarella. This comforting American classic is perfect for holiday meals or any family dinner, offering a smooth, buttery texture with a golden bubbly top.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture bubbles and cooks out its raw taste without browning.
- Prepare cheese sauce: Slowly whisk in the whole milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Then add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Layer potatoes and sauce: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Bake covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the potatoes to cook through gently and the flavors to meld.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for 20–25 minutes more until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Rest and garnish: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor, include a layer of sautéed onions or cooked bacon between potato layers.
- Swap out cheddar and mozzarella with Gruyère or Parmesan cheese for a gourmet twist.
- Use Yukon gold potatoes for a creamier texture or russet potatoes for a more classic bite.
- Letting the dish rest after baking improves sliceability and flavor absorption.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
