Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe to Try

If you’re craving a comforting, creamy side that pairs beautifully with just about any main dish, this Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is your new best friend. Rich, loaded with flavor, and boasting that perfect golden crust, these cheesy scalloped potatoes bring warmth and satisfaction to the table with every bite. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or a festive holiday spread, this classic dish combines tender potatoes with a silky cheese sauce that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra Creamy Texture: The cheese and cream blend creates a luscious sauce that hugs every tender potato slice perfectly.
• Simple Ingredients: No complicated or exotic items here—just everyday pantry staples come together for incredible flavor.
• Comfort Food Classic: It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug, making any meal feel extra special.
• Versatile Side Dish: Works great with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even as a hearty vegetarian main option.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep it ahead of time and bake right before serving, saving precious time on busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep it straightforward with just a handful of essential ingredients that build the creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked base of this dish. Each component plays a key role, from tangy cheese to tender potatoes, ensuring you get that ideal balance of flavor, texture, and color.

• Russet Potatoes: Starchy potatoes slice thinly to soak up all the creamy goodness while baking tender.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Offers rich, tangy flavor and melts smoothly for that irresistible cheesy layer.
• Heavy Cream: Adds luscious richness and helps create the silky sauce that coats the potatoes evenly.
• Butter: Brings subtle depth and helps brown the top for that beautiful golden crust.
• Garlic: Infuses just the right amount of savory aroma into the creamy base.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances every flavor note without overpowering.
• Onion Powder or Fresh Onions: Adds a mild sweetness and complementary layer of flavor.

Variations for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

This recipe is a fantastic foundation to make your own with just a few tweaks. Whether you have dietary needs or just want to experiment with flavors, it’s easy to customize and still achieve that creamy, cheesy magic.

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary into the cream mixture for a fragrant herbal twist.
• Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar with Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan for distinct cheesy profiles.
• Vegetarian Boost: Mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach to sneak in some greens and earthy flavors.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk and vegan cheese alternatives to keep the creaminess without dairy.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for subtle heat that excites the palate.

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling your russet potatoes and slicing them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and layering.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in minced garlic and your heavy cream. Slowly add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring until melted and smooth, then season with salt, pepper, and onion powder.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes

In a buttered baking dish, arrange a layer of potato slices. Pour some of the cheese sauce evenly over this layer. Repeat layering potatoes and sauce until all are used, finishing with cheese sauce on top.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Uniform Slices: Use a mandoline slicer for consistent, thin potato slices that cook evenly.
• Don’t Overcrowd Layers: Give enough cream sauce between layers to keep potatoes moist and flavorful.
• Low and Slow Baking: Baking at a moderate temperature ensures creamy potatoes inside and prevents burning the cheese topping.
• Use Sharp Cheese: Bold cheddar adds the most flavor, but mixing cheeses can add depth.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the dish cool briefly so it firms up and doesn’t fall apart when sliced.

How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Garnishes

Top your cheesy scalloped potatoes with freshly chopped parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color and enhanced flavor. Crispy fried onions also add a delightful crunchy texture contrast.

Side Dishes

This creamy classic pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or glazed ham. For a lighter touch, serve it alongside steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider making individual portions in ramekins for a special presentation, or layer in a cast iron skillet to create a crispy, rustic crust along the edges – both will impress guests and make serving a breeze.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld even more after resting overnight, making for delicious leftovers.

Freezing

Cheesy scalloped potatoes freeze well. Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. This helps maintain moisture and revive that creamy texture without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes work great for a buttery flavor and hold their shape well, but russets remain the best choice for their starchiness and creaminess.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This cheesy scalloped potatoes dish uses no flour or breadcrumbs unless you add them intentionally, making it naturally gluten-free.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Replace the butter and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and coconut or almond milk, and use dairy-free cheese substitutes that melt well.

Can I prepare the dish in advance and bake later?

Yes! Assemble everything, cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if baking cold.

What’s the best way to slice potatoes evenly?

A mandoline slicer is your best tool for uniform thin slices, which ensures even cooking and a professional texture.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is one of those timeless dishes that never fail to bring smiles around the dinner table. Its creamy richness, melty cheese, and tender potatoes make it an absolute must-try whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned cook. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and create a cozy, hearty dish that feels like a celebration in every bite!

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