Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Is there anything more comforting than a dish bubbling with golden brown cheese and tender layers of potatoes? These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the kind of creamy potato casserole that instantly brings warmth to the table—whether it’s a cozy Sunday dinner or a festive holiday spread.

If you’ve ever craved a side dish that’s rich, savory, and guaranteed to impress, you’re in the right place. Made with real ingredients like sharp cheddar, buttery roux, and slices of perfectly baked Russet potatoes, this recipe is all about indulgence done right.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

There’s a reason cheesy scalloped potatoes show up at nearly every gathering—they’re the ultimate comfort food side dish, rich in flavor, and undeniably satisfying. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just craving something hearty on a chilly night, this dish delivers every time.

Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this cheesy baked potato casserole:

• Comfort in Every Bite: Think tender, thinly sliced potatoes drenched in a velvety cheese sauce, baked to golden-brown perfection. It’s warm, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying.
• Crowd-Pleaser Guaranteed: From picky kids to indulgent adults, this dish always disappears fast. It pairs beautifully with everything from roast chicken to glazed ham.
• Surprisingly Simple: No need for fancy ingredients—just fresh potatoes, cheese, and pantry staples come together to create magic in your oven.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Hosting a dinner party? You can prep this dish a day in advance, refrigerate it, and just bake before serving. That’s less stress and more flavor.
• Versatile & Customizable: Add crispy bacon, switch up the cheeses, or layer in sautéed onions for a twist. You can make it your own every time.

Tip: For the creamiest texture, opt for starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold. And don’t skip the cheese blend—sharp cheddar and a bit of parmesan bring that rich, layered flavor to life.

This isn’t just a side dish—it’s a warm hug in a baking dish, ready to make any meal feel special.

 Ingredients You’ll Need

Ready to whip up the ultimate comfort food? Let’s gather your ingredients. You probably have many of these staples in your kitchen already, making this recipe super convenient:

• Russet potatoes – 2½ pounds, peeled and thinly sliced (about ⅛-inch thick)
  
• Sharp cheddar cheese – 2 cups, freshly shredded (pre-shredded won’t melt as smoothly)
  
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, finely grated
  
• Heavy cream – 1½ cups (creates that irresistibly creamy sauce)
  
• Whole milk – 1 cup (balances richness without overwhelming)
  
• Unsalted butter – 4 tablespoons, for richness and depth of flavor
  
• All-purpose flour – 3 tablespoons (key to making a smooth, thick sauce)
  
• Garlic cloves – 3, minced, for savory depth
  
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste, enhancing all flavors
  
• Fresh thyme or parsley (optional) – for a touch of color and freshness when serving
  

Quick tips for the best results:

• Cheese matters! Using freshly grated cheese ensures a smoother, creamier melt.
  
• Uniform slices: For even cooking, a mandoline or food processor helps achieve consistent thickness.
  
• Creamy sauce: Heavy cream and whole milk are a winning combo for the perfect balance—rich but not overly heavy.
  

Got your ingredients ready? Let’s move onto the fun part—assembling your cheesy masterpiece!

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Now comes the fun part—let’s cook! Follow these simple, step-by-step directions, and you’ll have perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes every single time:

1. Preheat & Prep
   
   • Heat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C).
     
   • Lightly butter a 9×13‑inch casserole dish so the cheesy scalloped potatoes don’t stick.
     
2. Build the Creamy Sauce
   
   • In a medium saucepan, melt 4 Tbsp butter over medium heat.
     
   • Stir in 3 Tbsp flour and cook 1 minute, whisking constantly, to form a smooth roux.
     
   • Add the minced garlic and let it bloom for 30 seconds.
     
   • Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk until lump‑free.
     
   • Simmer 3–4 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
     
   • Off the heat, fold in 1 cup cheddar and all the Parmesan until melted. Season with salt & pepper.
     
3. Layer the Potatoes
   
   • Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the dish.
     
   • Arrange a single layer of potato slices, slightly overlapping.
     
   • Spoon over ⅓ of the sauce, then sprinkle with ⅓ cup of the remaining cheddar.
     
   • Repeat twice more, finishing with the last of the sauce and cheese for that signature golden cheese crust.
     
4. Bake to Tender Perfection
   
   • Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
     
   • Remove foil and continue baking 20–25 minutes, until the top is deeply golden and the potatoes are fork‑tender.
     
5. Broil for Bonus Color (Optional)
   
   • For an extra bubbly top, switch to broil for 2–3 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning.
     
6. Rest & Serve
   
   • Let the oven‑baked potato gratin rest 10 minutes; this allows the layers to set for clean slices.
     
   • Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley and dive into creamy, savory bliss!

That’s it! You’ve just created a creamy potato casserole that’s equal parts cozy and crowd-pleasing.

Pro Tips and Variations

Want to elevate your cheesy scalloped potatoes from great to unforgettable? These pro tips and creative twists will help you customize the dish to suit your tastes—and avoid common pitfalls along the way.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use starchy potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Yukon Golds are a close second if you want a buttery bite.
  
• Slice evenly: Uneven slices can lead to undercooked layers. Use a mandoline slicer for precision and speed.
  
• Don’t rush the sauce: Take your time thickening the roux. A smooth, velvety sauce ensures your creamy potato casserole doesn’t turn watery.
  
• Let it rest: After baking, a 10-minute rest helps the layers firm up—so you get clean, satisfying slices instead of a cheesy mess.
  

Easy Variations to Try

• Add some crunch: Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs over the top before baking for an irresistible crust.
  
• Protein boost: Mix in cooked bacon, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken between the layers for a heartier dish.
  
• Switch up the cheese: Try Gruyère, fontina, smoked gouda, or even a bit of blue cheese for a bold twist.
  
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux or thicken the sauce with cornstarch instead.
  
• Plant-based option: Swap in dairy-free butter, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese to keep things fully vegan while still indulgent.
  

From holiday dinners to cozy weekday meals, these tips let you fine-tune your baked potato gratin to match the moment—and your mood.

How to Serve Your Scalloped Potatoes

These cheesy scalloped potatoes are more than just a side—they’re the kind of dish that steals the spotlight with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or planning a cozy family dinner, here are some delicious pairing ideas and presentation tips to help you serve them like a pro.

What to Serve With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Festive main courses: Complement dishes like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or herb-crusted beef tenderloin—perfect for Easter or Thanksgiving celebrations.
  
• Weeknight favorites: Serve alongside grilled chicken, pan-seared pork chops, or baked salmon for a comforting yet balanced meal.
  
• Meatless meals: Add a crisp green salad, sautéed green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded vegetarian plate.
  

How to Serve It Like a Pro

• Garnish smartly: A sprinkle of fresh herbs (like chopped parsley or thyme) adds color and a pop of freshness to contrast the rich, creamy base.
  
• Choose the right bakeware: A cast iron skillet or ceramic dish adds rustic appeal while keeping the dish warm longer.
  
• Make it ahead: These oven-baked potatoes reheat beautifully—just cover with foil and warm at 325°F for about 15–20 minutes.
  

Leftovers? Lucky You!

Scalloped potatoes make even better leftovers. Try them:

• Reheated for breakfast with a fried egg on top
  
• Layered into a leftover casserole
  
• Top with a spoonful of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
  

No matter how you serve them, one thing’s for sure: they’ll be the most requested side dish at your table.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably magical about a dish that combines simple ingredients—potatoes, cheese, cream—and transforms them into pure comfort. These cheesy scalloped potatoes are exactly that kind of magic. Rich, golden, and perfectly layered, they bring warmth to the table and smiles to every guest.

Whether you’re planning a holiday menu or just want to add something special to a weekday meal, this recipe is the kind that becomes a go-to classic. With its customizable variations, make-ahead ease, and irresistible flavor, it’s more than just a side—it’s a dish that melts hearts.

So grab your potatoes, preheat the oven, and let the cheesy goodness begin. You’re going to love every bite. And if you’re craving even more melty comfort, don’t miss our crowd-pleasing Cheesy Potatoes Recipe—another irresistible favorite worth bookmarking.

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