If you crave a comforting, indulgent side that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a rich, velvety cheese sauce that melts into every nook and cranny, topped with a golden, bubbling crust. This dish transforms humble potatoes into a decadent crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a little extra love in your meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together brilliantly in this recipe, each playing an essential role in creating the perfect balance of creamy texture, sharp flavor, and beautiful color. From the potatoes’ buttery softness to the sharp bite of cheddar, every component is thoughtfully chosen to elevate your dish.
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes: Choose firm, starchy potatoes for creamy layers that hold their shape beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps build the roux base of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce for that luscious, clingy texture.
- 2 cups whole milk (warmed): Ensures smooth incorporation into the roux and keeps the sauce silky.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings extra creaminess for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides the classic sharp, tangy flavor that defines scalloped potatoes.
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese: Adds a mellow, nutty touch and wonderful meltability.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Lends a subtle aromatic depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers just enough spice without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Deepens savory notes subtly.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional): Adds a hint of warmth and vibrant color.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: A fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens the dish visually and in flavor.
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This setup ensures your potatoes cook evenly without sticking, giving you a lovely, browned crust once baked.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce Base
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add your minced garlic and sauté for just a minute to release its fragrance without burning. Next, whisk in the flour, allowing it to cook for one minute to form a roux — this is the secret to that heavenly thick sauce. Gradually pour in the warm milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens to a silky, smooth sauce.
Step 3: Season and Add Cheese
Remove the sauce from heat and stir in salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika if using. Now comes the best part: fold in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar and all the Gruyère or mozzarella until the cheese melts perfectly into the creamy base, creating a luscious, velvety cheese sauce bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Place half of your beautifully sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish in an even layer. Pour half the cheese sauce over the potatoes, gently spreading to cover every slice. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce, then finish with a generous layer of the remaining sharp cheddar on top for that picture-perfect golden finish.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover your dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue to bake uncovered for another 25 to 30 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and bubbling. Let the dish rest for about 10 minutes before serving — this helps the sauce thicken up and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over your scalloped potatoes just before serving to add a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbaceous note that balances the rich cheese sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted or grilled meats like chicken, ham, or steak, as well as steamed vegetables to add a crisp contrast. For a lighter touch, toss together a bright green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish in individual ramekins for a charming, personal touch at dinner parties, or sprinkle extra crispy breadcrumbs and herbs on top before the final minutes of baking to add delightful texture that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your scalloped potatoes tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days and taste just as comforting when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe if you want to prep ahead. Place it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent over-browning, or microwave individual servings for convenience. Add a few minutes if your dish was frozen to warm it through without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Gruyère create a classic flavor, feel free to swap Gruyère for Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese depending on your preference. Just choose cheeses that melt well to keep that creamy texture.
Should I peel the potatoes or keep the skins on?
Peeling the potatoes gives a smoother, more traditional scalloped texture, but leaving skins on adds rustic charm and extra nutrients. Just make sure to wash them well and slice evenly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
This version relies on dairy for richness, but you can experiment with plant-based milks and vegan cheese alternatives. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might differ slightly from the original Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe.
How do I achieve extra crispiness on top?
For a crispy golden top, broil the dish uncovered for the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking. Watch it carefully to prevent burning, and you’ll have a lovely, crunchy cheese crust.
Can I use a different type of potato?
You can, but russet and Yukon gold potatoes are preferred for their texture during baking. Waxy potatoes might become gummy, so stick to these for the best outcome.
Final Thoughts
Making this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is like gifting yourself a plate of pure comfort and joy. With its creamy layers and golden cheese crust, it’s bound to become a beloved staple at your table. Don’t wait for a special occasion—give it a try soon and watch everyone’s faces light up with every cheesy, luscious bite.
Print
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a creamy, comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a luscious cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and Gruyère, resulting in a golden, bubbly casserole with a rich, savory flavor.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce base: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then whisk in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add milk and cream: Gradually whisk in the warmed whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring a smooth mixture. Cook the sauce for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season and add cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in salt, black pepper, onion powder, and optional paprika. Then mix in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese along with all the Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth.
- Assemble the layers: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and pour the rest of the cheese sauce on top. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the layered dish.
- Bake covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. This step allows the potatoes to cook through gently.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and garnish: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the top for the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking.
- Gruyère cheese can be substituted with Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese if preferred.
- Slice potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking and texture.
