Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a comforting, cheesy, and irresistibly creamy side dish, you are going to fall in love with this Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. It combines tender slices of potatoes baked in a luscious cheese sauce, brought to life with just the right hint of garlic and spices. Perfectly golden on top and meltingly soft inside, this dish is a Southern classic that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a festive holiday table, these scalloped potatoes are a sure way to warm hearts and fill bellies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients make the magic happen in this Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. Each component adds its own special touch — from creamy whole milk creating a velvety sauce, to sharp cheddar cheese delivering that signature cheesy punch.

• 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes: Use russet or Idaho for best texture; peel or leave the skins on for extra rustic flavor.
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter: Essential for starting the sauce with richness and depth.
• 1 clove garlic (minced or grated): Adds a subtle savory warmth without overpowering.
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg: The secret spice that enhances the creaminess and rounds out the flavors.
• 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce and give it that perfect consistency.
• 1-1/2 cups whole milk: Makes the sauce smooth and luscious; whole milk gives the best body and flavor.
• 1 tsp kosher salt: Brings out all the flavors beautifully.
• 1 pinch ground red pepper: Just a hint of heat to add complexity.
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated and divided): The star cheese that makes this dish cheesy paradise.
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds a slightly nutty tang and great texture on top.
• 1/8 tsp paprika (optional): For a pop of color and subtle smoky note if desired.

How to Make Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by gathering all your ingredients to keep things smooth and simple. Thinly slice your potatoes—this ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the delicious cheese sauce. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready when you are.

Step 2: Make the Roux Base

Melt the butter gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid browning it too fast. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then whisk in the flour, working it until smooth and bubbling slightly—this is what gives your cheese sauce it’s silky thickness.

Step 3: Add the Milk and Seasonings

Slowly whisk in the whole milk to the roux, taking care to keep everything lump-free. Once combined, add the kosher salt, ground red pepper, and nutmeg. Continue cooking until the sauce comes to a boil and thickens beautifully, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Stir in one and a half cups of sharp cheddar cheese until it melts into a rich, creamy sauce with a lovely gooey texture. Once the cheese is fully incorporated, remove the pan from heat — this cheese sauce is the heart of the Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe.

Step 5: Layer the Dish

Prepare a two-quart baking dish with a light coating of non-stick spray. Pour in one cup of the cheese sauce and spread evenly across the bottom. Arrange half of your potato slices on top, spreading them out for even baking.

Step 6: Add More Sauce

Drizzle half of the remaining cheese sauce over your potato layer to ensure every slice is wrapped in creamy goodness. Smooth it out so that it covers the potatoes evenly before moving on.

Step 7: Repeat Layers

Layer the rest of the potatoes on top, followed by the remaining cheese sauce, repeating the same layering technique for consistent flavor throughout.

Step 8: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the surface, then shower with Parmesan cheese for an irresistible golden crust that bubbles and browns as it bakes.

Step 9: Bake Covered and Uncovered

Cover your dish with a lid or foil to keep the steam in, and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the cover and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is perfectly bubbly and browned.

Step 10: Finish and Serve

For a final touch, sprinkle a small pinch of paprika over the top for a lovely pop of color, and your dish is ready to serve, ooey-gooey and absolutely comforting.

How to Serve Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme make a beautiful, fresh contrast to the rich cheese sauce, brightening up each bite. A few cracked black peppercorns on top also add a nice textural and flavor boost.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs perfectly with roasted or grilled meats, like tender chicken or pork chops. It’s also a fantastic side to a hearty green salad or steamed vegetables when you want to balance out the indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Try scooping portions into small ramekins for single servings that look elegant and keep things neat. For a festive twist, top each serving with a crispy bacon crumble or caramelized onions to add another flavor dimension.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your scalloped potatoes cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they stay fresh for up to 4 days, ready for a comforting second meal.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish if you want to save it beyond a few days. After baking, let it cool thoroughly, then wrap tightly with foil and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish covered in a 350-degree oven until heated through and bubbly again. A splash of milk or a pat of butter on top helps refresh the sauce while warming.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Parmesan give this recipe its classic flavor, feel free to swap in Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a different but still delicious twist.

Should I peel the potatoes?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, but peeling results in a smoother, creamier dish. Both work well, so go with your preference.

What if I don’t have whole milk?

If you only have lower-fat milk, you can use it, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Adding a little extra butter or cream can help mimic the velvety texture that whole milk provides.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Modifying this recipe is a bit tricky since cheese and butter are key. However, you can experiment with plant-based cheeses and dairy-free milk alternatives, keeping in mind that texture and flavor will change.

How do I know when the scalloped potatoes are done?

Use a fork to test tenderness — it should slide easily into the potato slices without resistance. The top should be golden and bubbly, signaling the perfect, creamy finish.

Final Thoughts

There’s something irresistibly cozy about this Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for bringing a little joy to any meal. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become your go-to side dish for dinners big and small. So grab those potatoes and get baking — your taste buds will thank you.

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