There’s something undeniably comforting about a bubbling dish of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes straight from the oven, isn’t there? I’ve always turned to this classic side dish during family gatherings, where its creamy layers of potatoes and melted cheese bring everyone together around the table. In my experience, making Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes from scratch elevates any meal, turning a simple dinner into something special without much fuss.
What I love most is how versatile these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes can be—they pair perfectly with roasted meats or even stand alone as a cozy vegetarian option. I’ve tweaked the recipe over the years to get that perfect gooey texture, and now I’m excited to share it with you so you can create your own memorable moments in the kitchen.
Key Takeaways:
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a crowd-pleasing side that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor for any occasion.
- Prep and bake in under an hour for a quick yet impressive addition to weeknight dinners.
- The blend of sharp cheddar and creamy sauce delivers an irresistible cheesy taste every time.
- Slice potatoes thinly for even cooking and maximum creaminess in your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat easily for multiple meals.
Why You’ll Adore This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Ultimate Comfort Food: Nothing beats the warm, gooey embrace of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes on a chilly evening. It’s like a hug from your grandma’s kitchen, filling your home with that irresistible aroma of baking cheese and herbs. In my experience, it always steals the show at potlucks.
Simple Yet Impressive: You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up these delicious Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with everyday ingredients. No fancy equipment needed—just a sharp knife and a casserole dish. It’s perfect for beginners who want to impress without the stress.
Customizable to Your Taste: Whether you add bacon for crunch or swap cheeses for a twist, this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe adapts beautifully. I find that a sprinkle of herbs takes it to gourmet levels every time. Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dish you can make your own?
Family Favorite Staple: Kids and adults alike rave about the tender potatoes smothered in cheese sauce. Here’s the thing: it’s nutritious too, with potatoes providing a hearty base. Serve it up and watch the seconds disappear—it’s that good!
Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes form the hearty base of your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, offering that starchy texture that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully. I always choose firm ones to ensure they hold their shape during baking. In my experience, slicing them thinly, about 1/8-inch, prevents sogginess and creates those perfect tender layers. Without good potatoes, your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes just wouldn’t be the same.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is the star here, providing a bold, melty flavor that defines Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Freshly grated blocks melt smoother than pre-shredded, avoiding that gritty texture. I’ve experimented with blends like adding Gruyere for nuttiness, but classic cheddar keeps it comforting and reliable. It binds everything together in cheesy perfection.
Cream and Milk: A mix of heavy cream and whole milk creates the luxurious sauce that envelops the potatoes in Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. This combination ensures richness without heaviness—trust me, all milk can make it watery. Season it with garlic and thyme for depth; it’s what elevates the dish from good to unforgettable. The creaminess is key to that indulgent bite.
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Prepare the Potatoes and Sauce
Start by thinly slicing about 2.5 pounds of potatoes— I use a mandoline for uniformity, which makes all the difference in even cooking for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. In a saucepan, whisk together 2 cups of heavy cream, 1.5 cups milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg over medium heat until it just simmers. This builds the flavorful base that infuses every layer; don’t rush it, as patience here pays off in taste.
Now, preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. The sauce should be fragrant and steaming—stir in a tablespoon of butter for extra silkiness. I’ve found that letting it cool slightly before layering prevents the potatoes from cooking too fast on top.
Layer and Assemble
Begin layering half the potato slices in the dish, overlapping slightly for that classic scalloped look. Pour over half the cream mixture, then sprinkle with one-third of the shredded cheddar and some sliced onions if you like a bit of bite. Repeat with the remaining layers, ending with cheese on top for a golden crust—these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes come alive with this build. Cover loosely with foil to start, ensuring even heat distribution without drying out.
Sensory details shine here: the kitchen fills with garlicky warmth as you assemble. Timing is key—about 10 minutes for layering keeps things efficient. In my experience, a light press down on the layers helps the sauce seep through beautifully.
Bake to Perfection
Bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncover and add more cheese before baking another 20-25 minutes until bubbly and browned. The edges will crisp just right, and the potatoes should be fork-tender when you test the center—these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are done when the sauce thickens and cheese melts invitingly. Let it rest 10 minutes post-oven; this sets the layers for easy serving.
Watch closely near the end to avoid over-browning, and broil for 2 minutes if needed for extra color. What I find interesting is how the rest time intensifies the flavors. Your kitchen will smell amazing, drawing everyone in.
Ingredients
- 2.5 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a saucepan, heat cream, milk, garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and butter until simmering; set aside.
- Layer half the potatoes in the dish, top with half the sauce, one-third cheese, and onions.
- Repeat layers, ending with remaining cheese.
- Cover and bake 45 minutes; uncover, bake 20-25 more minutes until golden and tender.
- Rest 10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Use a Mandoline Slicer: It ensures even thin slices for uniform cooking in your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, saving time and effort.
Freshly Grate Cheese: Pre-shredded has additives that prevent smooth melting—grate your own for the creamiest texture.
Let It Rest: Waiting 10 minutes after baking allows flavors to meld and makes slicing easier without falling apart.
You Must Know
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are dairy-heavy, so use full-fat ingredients for the best sauce consistency.
- Overcrowding the dish can lead to uneven baking—stick to a single layer per row.
- Nutmeg adds subtle warmth; don’t skip it for authentic flavor depth.
- Vegetarian-friendly, but check labels for hidden animal products in cream.
How to Store Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
To keep your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes fresh, cool them completely before covering and refrigerating in an airtight container—they’ll last up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months, though texture may soften slightly upon thawing. Reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 20-25 minutes, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Customizing Your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Feel free to swap cheddar for gouda or add ham for a hearty casserole twist in your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. If you’re dairy-free, try plant-based cream and cheese alternatives, though the sauce might be less rich. For spice, incorporate diced jalapeños or paprika—experiment to suit your crowd. Check out our loaded potato variations for more ideas.
What to Serve with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Pair these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with roasted turkey or ham for holiday feasts, or alongside grilled steak for everyday dinners. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while crusty bread soaks up the sauce beautifully. Don’t forget a crisp white wine like Chardonnay to complement the creamy cheese—it’s a match made in heaven.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
If you don't want ooey gooey cheese covering every single nook and cranny of your scalloped potatoes then look away. These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection!
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 4 russet potatoes (peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (about 2 pounds))
- 02 1 yellow onion (sliced into rings)
- 03 3 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 04 3 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 05 ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 06 2 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 07 1 ½ cup mild cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 08 salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly spray an 8x8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Arrange the potatoes and onions in the prepared baking dish, staggering potato and then onion.
In a medium-size saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Mix in the flour and salt, and stir constantly with a whisk for one minute. Stir in milk. Cook until mixture has thickened.
Stir in cheese all at once, and continue stirring until melted and smooth, about 30-60 seconds.
Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes, and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Bake for 85-90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
For a crisp topping, change the oven setting to broil after the potatoes are baked. Broil until golden brown.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve.
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NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Can I make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, assemble your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 10 extra minutes if starting cold. It’s a time-saver for busy holidays.
How long does Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes last in the fridge?
Properly stored, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes will keep for 3-4 days in the fridge. Beyond that, freeze them to extend life up to 2 months. Always reheat to 165°F for safety.
Can I use sweet potatoes in Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
Absolutely, sweet potatoes add a unique sweetness to Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, pairing well with the cheese. Slice and layer just like regulars, but reduce bake time slightly as they cook faster. It’s a fun autumn twist.
What’s the best cheese for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
Sharp cheddar is classic for its melt and tang, but mixing in mozzarella enhances stretchiness in your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Avoid mild cheeses, as they lack punch. Experiment for your perfect blend.
Is Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, relying on potatoes and dairy. Double-check cream labels for additives. Serve with gluten-free mains for a full safe meal.
How do I make vegan Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
Substitute plant-based milk, cream, and a vegan cheese like cashew-based for dairy in Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Nutritional yeast adds cheesiness. It won’t be identical but comes close in comfort.
Can I add meat to Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
Sure, diced ham or bacon cooked crispy elevates Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes to main-dish status. Layer it in with the potatoes for even distribution. It’s hearty and satisfying.
Why are my Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes watery?
Thick slices or low-heat baking often cause wateriness; slice thinner and ensure full simmer of the sauce. Rinsing potatoes removes excess starch too. Adjust next time for perfect creaminess. For more troubleshooting, see our potato tips guide.
Final Thoughts
From the first creamy bite to the last, these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes will become a staple in your recipe rotation, bringing warmth and joy to every table. I’ve shared this recipe because it’s reliable, delicious, and endlessly adaptable—give it a try this weekend. What are you waiting for? Grab those potatoes and get baking; you won’t regret it.