If there’s one comforting, show-stopping side dish that always delights at the table, it’s this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a rich sauce make for a dish that’s utterly irresistible. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, these scalloped potatoes deliver that warm, indulgent feeling we all crave. Each bite melts in your mouth with a lovely balance of sharp cheddar and smooth cream, proving that simple ingredients can combine magic in one glorious casserole.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe shines because the ingredients are straightforward, but each plays a vital role in creating a magnificent texture, flavor, and gorgeous golden color. From the potatoes to the cheese, every element is essential.
- Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (2 1/2 pounds): They provide the perfect potato texture—starchy yet creamy when cooked thinly sliced.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): For creating a smooth, buttery roux that’s the foundation of the sauce.
- All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Thickens the milk and cream mixture to a luscious sauce.
- Whole milk (1 1/2 cups): Adds creaminess and helps balance the heaviness of the cream.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Enriches the sauce, making it decadently smooth and velvety.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Adds aromatic depth and a subtle savory kick.
- Salt (1 1/2 teaspoons): Enhances flavors, making every layer pop.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just enough warmth and subtle spice to balance the richness.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups, divided): The star ingredient that brings bold, melty cheesiness to every bite.
- Fresh thyme leaves (1 teaspoon, optional): For a fragrant herbaceous note that brightens the dish beautifully.
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking and give a hint of richness right from the start. This prep sets the stage for tender, golden scalloped potatoes with perfectly crispy edges.
Step 2: Slice the Potatoes Thinly
Peeling and slicing your potatoes into 1/8-inch round slices is a labor of love. The thin slices ensure even cooking and help the flavors meld together beautifully. Rinse them briefly, then pat dry to remove excess starch for a creamier texture.
Step 3: Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. This step is crucial as the roux forms the silky base for your sauce, eliminating any raw flour taste while setting up a luxuriously thick layer.
Step 4: Whisk in Milk and Cream
Slowly add the milk and cream, whisking constantly. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which takes about 4 to 5 minutes. This luscious sauce is where creaminess meets velvety texture, enveloping each potato slice in pure comfort.
Step 5: Flavor the Sauce
Now stir in the minced garlic, salt, and pepper for that all-important savory backbone. Then add 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly into the sauce. This cheesy, garlicky blend will tie the whole dish together.
Step 6: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce
In your prepared baking dish, layer half of the potatoes evenly. Pour half of the cheese sauce over this first layer, making sure every slice gets coated. Layer the remaining potatoes and pour the rest of the sauce on top for maximum creaminess in every bite.
Step 7: Add the Final Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. This extra cheese will bake to a golden, bubbly crust perfect for that satisfying cheesy bite in every forkful.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the sauce bubbles enthusiastically. This baking process melds all those flavors and textures into pure bliss.
Step 9: Rest and Garnish
Let your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe rest for 10 minutes before serving—this allows it to set up for neat slices and deepened flavors. If you like, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top for a fresh, herbal note that dazzles the palate.
How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh thyme or chopped chives sprinkled over the top adds a bright contrast to the rich, cheesy potatoes, bringing both color and a light herbal aroma.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like a juicy roast chicken or a tender beef brisket. It balances hearty proteins with creamy comfort. You can also add a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to keep the meal balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, bake the scalloped potatoes in individual ramekins for elegant personal servings. Another fun idea is to spoon portions into mini cast iron skillets straight from the oven to keep that cheese crust crisp and impressive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making leftovers even tastier the next day!
Freezing
You can freeze this dish before baking. Assemble everything in a freezer-safe container, cover it well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking according to the original instructions.
Reheating
To reheat, bake leftovers covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 25 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to crisp the cheesy top back up beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives a classic flavor and great melt, you can mix in Gruyere, mozzarella, or even a bit of Parmesan for different cheesy profiles. Just make sure the cheese melts well for the perfect texture.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeling the potatoes is preferred for this recipe to achieve a silky, tender texture and a smooth layering effect. Leaving the skins on will add texture and rustic character but might change the overall creaminess.
What kind of potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best because they hold their shape well yet soften nicely. Waxy potatoes like red potatoes tend to stay too firm, which might affect the desired creamy, tender outcome.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
While the classic recipe relies on butter, cream, and cheese for richness, you can experiment using plant-based milk, dairy-free butter, and vegan cheese alternatives. The texture and flavor will differ slightly but can still be delicious.
How do I get a crispy cheesy top?
Removing the foil during the last stage of baking lets the cheese brown and crisp up. For extra crispiness, you can broil for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close watch so it doesn’t burn.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of serving a warm, bubbly casserole fresh from the oven, especially one as comforting and flavorful as this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. Its layered richness and golden cheesy crust make every meal feel special. Give it a try for your next family dinner or special occasion—you might just find a new favorite to cherish forever.
Print
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15-20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic scalloped potatoes recipe features thinly sliced Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce made from a buttery roux, whole milk, heavy cream, and sharp cheddar cheese. The dish is seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, then baked until bubbly and golden brown, perfect as a comforting side for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 1/2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Garnish
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and help with browning.
- Slice Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them into 1/8-inch thick rounds. Rinse the slices and pat them dry to remove excess starch and moisture.
- Make Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add Dairy: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream to the roux. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
- Season and Add Cheese: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Then add 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Layer Potatoes and Sauce: Place half of the potato slices into the prepared baking dish in an even layer. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes.
- Repeat Layers: Add the remaining potato slices followed by the rest of the cheese sauce. Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow potatoes to partially cook evenly.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes outside the oven before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture or Russet potatoes for a more hearty, fluffy finish.
- Slicing potatoes evenly ensures uniform cooking.
- Rinsing potatoes reduces excess starch and prevents sticking.
- Covering the dish while baking helps cook the potatoes thoroughly without drying them out.
- Allowing the dish to rest lets the sauce thicken and the flavors meld better.
- Fresh thyme is optional but adds a pleasant aromatic touch.
