Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

If you’re hunting for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. This beloved casserole layers tender, thin-sliced potatoes in a dreamy, creamy cheese sauce that bubbles up golden and glorious in the oven. One bite and you’ll be hooked – it’s the perfect marriage of soft, gently seasoned potatoes and sharp cheddar goodness, brightened with a sprinkle of parsley on top. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a holiday table or adding a touch of coziness to a weeknight meal, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are always the star side dish that brings everyone back for seconds.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes plays an essential role in building those comforting layers of flavor and texture. These staples come together effortlessly—no fancy tricks needed, just quality ingredients and a little bit of care for a side dish that always delights.

• Russet potatoes: Their starchy texture gives you that classic tender, sliceable bite and absorbs the cheese sauce perfectly.
• Unsalted butter: Melting butter forms the rich base for the cream sauce; using unsalted lets you control the seasoning just right.
• All-purpose flour: Just enough to thicken the sauce, creating a luxuriously smooth and creamy consistency.
• Whole milk: Adds lightness to the sauce while still keeping things creamy.
• Heavy cream: The not-so-secret weapon for a luscious, decadent mouthfeel that makes every bite memorable.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Offers a bold, tangy flavor and classic cheese pull that defines Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled in and on top, Parmesan adds savory depth and a beautiful golden crust.
• Garlic powder: Infuses subtle but unmistakable warmth and savory notes throughout.
• Onion powder: Rounds out the sauce’s flavor and brings a gentle sweetness in every layer.
• Salt: Essential for waking up all those flavors, so don’t skimp!
• Black pepper: Just a touch brings gentle heat and a lovely balance to the rich sauce.
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Bright green parsley over the top adds color and a fresh finish that pops.

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temp is the sweet spot for baking the potatoes until they’re fork-tender and the cheese sauce turns golden. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes can release easily and look beautiful on the plate.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Peel your russet potatoes and slice them thin—about 1/8 inch—for the most even cooking. If you have a mandolin, now’s the time to use it for perfectly uniform slices. Consistent slicing ensures that every layer cooks through and soaks up all that luscious sauce.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it smells nutty but not burned—this is your roux, which will thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Keep stirring as the mixture simmers and thickens for about 5 to 7 minutes. Off the heat, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cheddar, and half of the Parmesan. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is silky smooth—at this point, you’ll want to sneak a taste!

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce

Spread half of your sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them for a beautiful layered effect. Pour half of your fragrant cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Repeat with the second half—layering potatoes, then topping with the rest of the cheese sauce. Finish with a generous sprinkle of the remaining Parmesan for that irresistible crust.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Cover your dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook through while staying moist. After 45 minutes, uncover and bake another 20 to 25 minutes until the top is gloriously golden and bubbling. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes will be irresistibly inviting.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Let the dish rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This little pause helps the sauce set, making each portion fork-perfect. If you love a little color and freshness, scatter chopped parsley over the top before serving—you’ll be rewarded with both beauty and bright flavor.

How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives is a simple way to add color and a hint of herbal flavor. For a little extra flair, you might try thinly sliced green onions or even a dusting of smoked paprika—these little touches make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes look as special as they taste.

Side Dishes

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes shine on holiday tables or weeknight dinners alike. Pair them with roasted meats like ham, turkey, or beef, or keep things vegetarian with a bright green salad and seasonal veggies. Their creamy richness also makes them a wonderful match for tangy cranberry sauce or simply steamed asparagus.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, try baking them in ramekins for individual servings—perfect for a dinner party. You can also layer in cooked bacon or diced ham between the potatoes for a heartier twist. Garnish with edible flowers or serve directly in a cast-iron skillet for rustic table appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes store beautifully. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days, and the flavors will actually get even better as they meld together.

Freezing

You can freeze Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for later enjoyment! Allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil or portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, cover and bake at 350°F until warmed through, usually 20 to 30 minutes. Individual portions can go in the microwave, just add a splash of milk and cover to keep them moist. This will bring back that creamy texture and meld the cheesy sauce all over again.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake as directed (add a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge). This makes it perfect for stress-free entertaining.

What’s the best cheese to use besides cheddar?

Sharp cheddar gives that classic tang, but you can experiment with Gruyère, Swiss, or even smoked gouda for a fun twist. Combining cheeses creates incredible depth and gooeyness, so feel free to mix and match based on what you have.

How do I keep my potatoes from turning grey before baking?

If you have to slice your potatoes ahead of time, submerge them in cold water to slow oxidation. Just be sure to drain and pat them dry before layering, so the cheese sauce clings to every slice.

Can I use a different kind of potato?

Yes! Yukon Gold potatoes work beautifully, delivering a creamier, buttery texture. Red potatoes aren’t quite as ideal for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, because they can hold their shape a bit too well, but they’ll still be delicious in a pinch.

Any tips for making a gluten-free version?

You can swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend or even use cornstarch (mix it with cold milk before adding). The sauce will thicken just as nicely and make everyone’s cheesy dreams come true, gluten-free included.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the kind of dish that turns any meal into a celebration. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or it’s already a family favorite, this recipe is just waiting to light up your table with warmth and comfort. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your most-requested side—give it a go and let your kitchen fill with the aroma of bubbling cheese and happy anticipation!

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