If you are looking for a comforting and irresistible side dish that will steal the show at any meal, this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a velvety cheese sauce, baked until bubbling golden perfection. Each bite offers a heavenly combination of creamy textures and rich, sharp cheddar flavor that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is guaranteed to become a staple you’ll make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role, creating a luscious texture, bold flavor, or inviting color that brings the dish alive. You don’t need fancy pantry items, just essentials that come together magically.
- Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes (2 ½ pounds): These provide the perfect balance of creaminess and structure when thinly sliced.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps create the roux for the cheese sauce.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce to that irresistible creamy consistency.
- Whole Milk (2 cups): Contributes to the smoothness of the sauce without overpowering the cheese.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Boosts the creaminess and adds a touch of indulgence.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups shredded): The star of the dish, providing that signature tangy, cheesy flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup shredded): Gives a nutty, salty finish and beautiful golden topping.
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Brings depth and warmth to the sauce.
- Onion Powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances the savory base without overpowering.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances and enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just the right hint of spice.
- Fresh Chopped Parsley (optional): A fresh pop of color and mild herbaceous note as garnish.
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches the perfect temperature for baking. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s bubbly but not browned. Whisk in the flour and let it cook for about one minute, creating a smooth roux—a key step for thickening your sauce. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until it thickens slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper for a savory base. Finally, remove the pan from heat and fold in 1 ½ cups of sharp cheddar cheese until melted and silky smooth. This cheese sauce is what makes the potatoes truly irresistible.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce
Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pour half of your luscious cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly to coat every slice. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes and the rest of the cheese sauce, ensuring every layer is soaked in creamy goodness.
Step 4: Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese along with the Parmesan cheese on top. This not only adds an extra cheesy punch but also creates a beautiful golden crust that crisps up during baking.
Step 5: Bake Covered, Then Uncovered
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes to let the potatoes start steaming and cook through. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 25 to 30 minutes until the top is bubbling, browned, and deliciously crisp. The potatoes should be fork-tender and the sauce thick and indulgent.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Allow your scalloped potatoes to rest for 10 to 15 minutes after baking; this helps the sauce thicken further and makes serving a breeze. If you’d like, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A light sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a subtle herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. For a bit of extra indulgence, crispy bacon bits or sautéed onions make fantastic toppings that complement the creamy cheese sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted meats such as chicken, ham, or beef. It’s perfect for holiday dinners or comforting weeknights alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the scalloped potatoes in individual ramekins for single servings. You can also add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions between the potatoes for extra flavor layers. A sprinkle of smoked paprika on top before baking adds a beautiful color and subtle smoky hint.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cheesy scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually meld even more after sitting, making for delicious next-day enjoyment.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish before baking by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, then proceed with the baking instructions as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, usually about 20 to 25 minutes. Microwaving works too but may sacrifice some texture and crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use other kinds of potatoes?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are ideal because of their texture and flavor, but you can experiment with red potatoes or even fingerlings for a twist. Just ensure they are sliced thinly for even baking.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (half the amount for cornstarch) when making the roux. The rest of the recipe remains the same and just as delicious.
How do I get perfectly thin slices every time?
Using a mandoline slicer is your best bet for uniformly thin potato slices. Consistency in thickness ensures even cooking and the perfect tender texture every time.
Can I make this recipe with different cheeses?
Definitely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, feel free to swap in Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavors and textures. Just be mindful of moisture content so the sauce stays creamy.
What if I want to add more flavor?
Additions like cooked bacon, caramelized onions, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a dash of smoked paprika can elevate this cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe to the next level. Just add these extras between the layers before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is pure comfort food magic wrapped in a cozy, cheesy hug. It’s one of those dishes that feels special enough for holidays, yet simple enough to enjoy any day of the week. From the first bite to the last, the layers of tender potatoes and savory cheese sauce will win your heart. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy potatoes!
Print
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features thinly sliced Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes baked in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. The dish is a comforting, flavorful side perfect for holiday meals or any occasion, finished with a golden bubbly crust and optional fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 ½ pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided: 1 ½ cups for sauce, ½ cup for topping)
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour, cooking for about 1 minute to form a roux without browning. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and add 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
- Layer the Potatoes and Sauce: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over this layer and spread evenly. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, then top with the remaining cheese sauce.
- Add Toppings and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar and the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and continue to bake for another 25–30 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10–15 minutes to thicken and set before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions between the layers.
- Use a mandoline slicer to ensure evenly thin potato slices for even cooking.
- Try swapping Gruyère or mozzarella cheese for a different cheesy variation.
