Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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Golden, bubbling, and rich with creamy layers, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. This classic dish combines thinly sliced potatoes with a velvety cheese sauce, baked to perfection until the top is beautifully browned and irresistibly crispy. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday feast, these scalloped potatoes will always steal the spotlight.

Each forkful offers a warm, cheesy embrace that brings a sense of home and nostalgia. The tender potatoes absorb all the creamy flavors, while the melted cheese adds an indulgent finish. It’s a dish that feels both familiar and luxurious, perfect alongside a Sunday roast or served solo for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

This dish is more than just a side – it’s a statement. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create something so rich and satisfying. The texture is creamy with just the right amount of bite, and the cheesy topping provides a golden, crisp contrast that’s pure joy. Plus, it uses pantry staples, making it easy to whip up without a special trip to the store.

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What Kind of Potatoes Work Best for Scalloped Potatoes?

Yukon Golds or Russet potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes. Yukon Golds bring a buttery flavor and hold their shape well, while Russets are starchier, creating a creamier texture as they bake. For best results, slice them evenly with a mandoline slicer to ensure uniform cooking.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a delicious role in building creamy, cheesy perfection. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Potatoes – The star of the dish. Use starchy potatoes like Russets or buttery Yukon Golds for the creamiest result.
• Butter – Adds rich flavor and helps create the roux for the cheese sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Milk – Forms the base of the creamy sauce; whole milk gives it the best richness.
• Heavy Cream – Boosts the decadence of the cheese sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor and that classic cheesy melt.
• Garlic – Adds a savory depth to the cream sauce.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance.
• Parsley (optional) – For a touch of freshness and color when serving.

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How To Make the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Let’s walk through the steps to create this irresistibly creamy and cheesy dish.

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8-inch thick. A mandoline slicer helps to get uniform slices that cook evenly.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream until smooth. Cook until it thickens slightly. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Layer the Dish

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

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Serving and Storing Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

This dish is hearty and filling, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes comfortably feeds about 6 to 8 people as a side dish. It’s rich and satisfying, so even smaller portions go a long way.

For leftovers, simply cover the baking dish with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or use the microwave for a quick fix. Add a splash of milk before reheating to bring back some creaminess.

Freezing is possible, but texture may slightly change due to the cream. If freezing, cool completely, wrap tightly, and store for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F, covered with foil, until warmed through.

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What to Serve With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

This cheesy classic pairs well with so many mains and sides. Here are some perfect companions:

1. Roast Chicken

Juicy, golden roast chicken complements the creaminess of the potatoes beautifully.

2. Glazed Ham

A holiday favorite, the salty-sweet flavors of glazed ham are perfect alongside the cheesy richness.

3. Green Beans Almondine

A fresh, crisp veggie side like this adds color and contrast.

4. Grilled Steak

Bold and hearty, a steak dinner with scalloped potatoes is pure comfort.

5. Garden Salad

Lighten up your plate with a refreshing salad and vinaigrette.

6. Garlic Bread

Great for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce.

7. Baked Salmon

The creamy potatoes balance well with the flaky texture and healthy fats in salmon.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can fully assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge.

2. What cheese works best for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is a classic and provides the boldest flavor. You can also mix in Gruyère, mozzarella, or parmesan for a more complex, gourmet touch.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make the roux.

4. Why did my sauce separate or curdle?

This usually happens if the heat is too high or if the cheese is added to boiling liquid. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer and stir continuously while adding cheese.

5. Can I add meat or vegetables to the dish?

Definitely! Cooked bacon, ham, or caramelized onions add great depth. For veggies, thinly sliced mushrooms or spinach work well layered between the potatoes.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a twist with extra cheese or meat? Did you use sweet potatoes instead?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other cook smarter!

Explore beautifully curated side dish and comfort food recipes on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to favorite.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the kind of dish that brings people together. Whether you’re making it for a holiday spread or a Sunday dinner, its creamy texture and golden top make it a crowd-pleaser every time. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, yet it delivers bold flavor and classic comfort.

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