If you’ve been searching for the very best way to upgrade your mealtime side dishes, look no further than these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Creamy layers of thin-sliced potatoes get smothered in a velvety, cheddar-packed sauce before baking to golden, bubbling perfection. Whether it’s a holiday feast or just a cozy Sunday dinner, this comforting classic guarantees big smiles and even bigger appetites at your table. Prepare to fall in love with every gooey, cheesy forkful!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are all about keeping things simple, but every ingredient has a key role in building those luscious layers of flavor and texture. Each component brings something unique, from creamy richness to punchy sharpness, making this recipe truly irresistible.
- Potatoes (2 lbs russet, peeled and thinly sliced): Russets bake up super tender and soak in all that decadent sauce—slice them thin, ideally with a mandoline, to ensure every bite is perfectly cooked.
- Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons): The foundation of a smooth, rich roux that gives the cheese sauce its body and beautiful texture.
- All-Purpose Flour (3 tablespoons): Combines with butter to thicken the sauce just right—no runny results, ever!
- Whole Milk (2 cups): Lends creaminess and helps the sauce stay pourable without being too heavy.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): For that signature indulgent richness behind every forkful.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Delivers loads of bold, tangy flavor and melts like a dream for the gooey topping and sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a nutty finish and a hint of saltiness that sends the dish over the top.
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the cheese sauce with savory depth—every bite tastes extra warm and comforting.
- Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a touch of natural sweetness and savory background flavor.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential to balance the richness and enhance every flavor.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a mild kick and balances the creamy, cheesy layers.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds color and a pop of freshness to each serving.
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Let’s get started by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and giving a 9×13-inch baking dish a light greasing. Prepping the dish ahead will make layering the potatoes and sauce a breeze later on. This is also a good time to peel and slice your potatoes—thinner slices always mean more tender, melt-in-your-mouth results.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and let it cook for a minute or two until it’s golden and nutty smelling. Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, a little at a time, to keep things nice and smooth. Keep stirring as the mixture thickens up—the anticipation will make that first bite even sweeter!
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Cheese
Time to stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for an instant flavor boost. Remove the pan from the heat and gradually mix in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Watch as it melts and transforms your sauce into a silky, savory dream—don’t be afraid to give it a little taste test!
Step 4: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in your prepared baking dish, spreading them evenly for the best texture. Pour half of the glorious cheese sauce over top, making sure every slice is covered. Repeat with the rest of the potatoes and sauce, then finish off with the remaining cheddar and all the Parmesan cheese right on top. Trust me, this is where the magic happens.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil to help the potatoes steam and soften. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and keep baking for another 20-25 minutes until the top is gloriously bubbly and gold. Give the dish at least 10 minutes to rest before serving—letting it cool ensures you get beautiful, picture-perfect slices instead of a molten mess!
How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley wakes up all that creaminess with a burst of color and herbaceous freshness. You can also add a little extra black pepper or a flurry of finely grated Parmesan for a finishing flourish.
Side Dishes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a star on their own but love sharing the spotlight with classic mains. They pair beautifully with roasted meats like ham, chicken, or beef, but are hearty enough to serve with a green salad or steamed veggies for a simple vegetarian meal. Think of these as the ultimate “dress up or down” side dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Up your presentation by serving them in mini ramekins or individual baking dishes, or cut them into neat squares for buffet-style gatherings. For a rustic touch, bake and serve right in a cast iron skillet—everyone will want a scoop straight from the pan!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes keep beautifully in the fridge. Simply transfer cooled portions to an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for an indulgent next-day treat!
Freezing
You can freeze Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for up to two months. Cool the dish completely, then wrap tightly with a layer of plastic wrap and foil. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat larger amounts in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly (about 20-25 minutes). If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil midway through reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are classic for their fluffy texture, Yukon Golds are another great choice for their buttery flavor and lovely yellow hue. Just be sure to slice them thinly for the best results in cheesy scalloped potatoes.
Can I add extra ingredients, like bacon or herbs?
Definitely! Bacon, fresh thyme, or chives are all delicious stirred in between the layers or sprinkled on top before baking. Customizing your cheesy scalloped potatoes is all part of the fun, so make it your own.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
Aim for slices about 1/8-inch thick. This ensures they cook through evenly and soak up all that cheesy goodness. If you have a mandoline, now is the perfect time to use it!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble your cheesy scalloped potatoes a day ahead and store covered in the fridge before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven cold.
What cheeses work best besides cheddar and Parmesan?
Try Swiss, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles. The key is picking a cheese that melts smoothly—feel free to mix and match for your own cheesy scalloped potatoes signature blend!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to try these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes as I am to share them with you! They bring warmth, comfort, and plenty of cheesy goodness to any meal. Honestly, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll find any excuse to make, so gather your loved ones and let the taste-testing begin!
Print
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy and comforting delight of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, a classic side dish perfect for any occasion. Layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes in a rich, cheesy sauce, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Potatoes:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk and cream. Stir in seasonings and 1 1/2 cups cheddar until smooth.
- Layer: Alternate potatoes and cheese sauce in the dish. Top with remaining cheeses.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding bacon or different cheese blends.
- Thinly slice potatoes for even cooking.
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