Name: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional); 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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If there’s ever been a side dish that steals the show at family dinners or holiday gatherings, it’s Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Imagine layers of tender potatoes smothered in a velvety cheese sauce, bubbling and golden on top, with just the right hint of garlic and a touch of sharpness from cheddar. This is pure comfort food, the kind you want to dig into straight out of the oven. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just treating yourself to something special, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are guaranteed to become a treasured favorite.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of everyday ingredients can come together to make something unforgettable. Each element in this recipe is purposeful, lending creaminess, flavor, or that irresistible cheesy finish that makes Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes so delightful.

Yukon gold or russet potatoes: These slice up beautifully and hold their shape while becoming perfectly tender in the oven.
Unsalted butter: Essential for starting the roux and adding rich, buttery notes to the sauce.
All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce, creating that classic creamy texture.
Whole milk: Gives the sauce its silky base—don’t skimp on the full-fat goodness!
Heavy cream: For an extra layer of decadence and richness in every bite.
Garlic: Adds a subtle depth and savory warmth that rounds out the flavors.
Salt and black pepper: Brings out all the other flavors and keeps things perfectly seasoned.
Onion powder: A touch of this gives just enough savory oomph without overpowering the dish.
Ground mustard (optional): A little goes a long way for extra tang and complexity.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show—choose a good, sharp cheddar for maximum cheesy impact.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top, it creates a golden, savory crust you’ll want on every forkful.
Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle just before serving adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this helps prevent sticking and makes for easier cleanup later. Setting up your baking dish first makes the rest of the process much smoother.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s just lightly golden. This step develops a subtle nutty flavor and forms the base for your sauce. Gradually pour in the milk and cream, whisking all the while until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and a pinch of ground mustard if using. Simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon. Take the pan off the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and silky.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce

Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in your prepared baking dish, overlapping them slightly like potato shingles. Pour half of your luscious cheese sauce over the potatoes and spread it evenly. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce to build those irresistible layers of flavor and creaminess.

Step 4: Top with Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and all the grated Parmesan over the top layer. This cheesy crown will turn gorgeously golden and bubbly in the oven. Cover the dish loosely with foil—this helps the potatoes cook through without browning too fast.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for 40 minutes with the foil on. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for fork-tender potatoes and a top that’s deeply golden and bubbling with cheesy goodness. Let the dish sit for at least 10 minutes before serving; this helps everything set and makes for cleaner slices.

How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch to Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. For extra flair, try thinly sliced green onions or even a pinch of smoked paprika to highlight that cheesy top layer. A few twists of black pepper right before serving can also add a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a natural alongside roasted meats like ham, turkey, or prime rib. They’re also fantastic paired with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or honey-glazed carrots for a well-rounded meal. Don’t be surprised if these potatoes become the most-requested side at your table!

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve individual portions in ramekins or mini cast iron skillets—perfect for dinner parties. You can also layer in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a handful of cooked, crumbled bacon between layers for a smoky twist on classic Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors continue to meld, making the potatoes just as delicious (if not more so) the next day!

Freezing

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes freeze surprisingly well. Let the baked dish cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months—just be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, cover and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 to 25 minutes. For single servings, a quick zap in the microwave works too. If the dish looks a bit dry, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back that signature creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit out at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed. This makes holiday prep a breeze.

What’s the best type Side Dish

Both Yukon gold and russet potatoes work beautifully. Yukon golds have a creamy texture and buttery flavor, while russets become wonderfully tender. Just be sure to slice them evenly for the best results.

Can I substitute the cheese?

Definitely! Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to swap in Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a mix for different flavors. Just make sure the cheese melts smoothly for that signature sauce.

How can I make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. The sauce will still thicken beautifully and taste just as creamy.

Why does my sauce sometimes separate?

This usually happens if the sauce is cooked over too high heat or for too long. For best results, cook gently and remove from the heat as soon as the cheese is melted and smooth. Stirring constantly also helps keep the sauce creamy.

Final Thoughts

There’s just nothing quite like sharing a bubbling dish of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with the people you love. Whether you’re making them for a special celebration or a cozy weeknight dinner, every bite is pure comfort and joy. Give this recipe a try soon—you might just find it becomes your new go-to favorite!

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

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4.8 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy and comforting side dish featuring thinly sliced Yukon gold or russet potatoes baked in a rich cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and Parmesan. This classic American scalloped potato recipe is perfect for holiday meals or any cozy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

2 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch)

Cheese Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Add Dairy and Seasonings: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and optional ground mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
Melt Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Layer Potatoes and Sauce: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
Add Topping: Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and all the grated Parmesan cheese for a golden crust.
Bake Covered: Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through.
Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20–25 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Rest and Serve: Let the dish sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For added flavor, incorporate caramelized onions or crispy bacon between potato layers.
Substitute part of the cheddar cheese with Gruyère or Monterey Jack to vary the flavor profile.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American