If you have been craving a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth side dish that’s irresistibly rich and full of flavor, then you are going to adore this Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. Every bite of these tender, thinly sliced potatoes soaked in a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce will wrap you in warm, cozy goodness. It is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with just about any main course, elevating simple meals to those memorable family dinner moments we all cherish. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe walks you through making an unforgettable classic that tastes like it took hours to perfect but comes together effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this dish’s incredible flavor lies in straightforward ingredients that work in perfect harmony. Each one brings something special to the table—whether it’s the creamy richness, sharp cheesy bite, or the delicate aroma that makes your kitchen smell like heaven.
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly: These starchy potatoes soften beautifully while holding their shape.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses): Sharp and gooey cheddar ensures melty, cheesy indulgence.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version): Creates that silky sauce that coats the potatoes perfectly.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and extra creaminess to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a nutty, savory depth that elevates the cheesy flavor.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet, aromatic base to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds warmth and an irresistible savory note.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Perfect for sautéeing and building that rich sauce foundation.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce into creamy perfection.
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Balances the richness with a mild kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional): Adds a gentle smoky warmth and pretty color.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Brings a fresh burst of color and brightness to the finished dish.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat—this is where all the magic begins. Then sauté the finely chopped onion until it’s wonderfully soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds so the aroma fills your kitchen without any bitterness. Stir in the flour and cook the mixture for a minute to create a roux, which thickens your sauce beautifully.
Step 2: Build Your Creamy Base
Gradually whisk in the heavy cream (or milk if you want it lighter) into the roux until the sauce is silky smooth. Keep it simmering gently and then stir in the sour cream, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Allow everything to cook together until thickened nicely, usually about 3 to 5 minutes, so you get that rich, velvety texture that will cling perfectly to your potatoes.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Cheese
In your prepared baking dish, lay out half of the thin potato slices in an even layer. Pour half of your luscious cheese sauce over the potatoes to coat each slice in creamy goodness. Sprinkle half the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce, ensuring every bite will be cheesy heaven. Repeat these layers once more with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese to build that irresistible depth and richness.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and pop it in the oven, baking for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to soften through the creamy layers. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes, letting the top turn golden brown and bubbly. When it’s finished, the potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork and the cheese sauce beautifully browned around the edges, creating a perfect gooey crust.
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up the warm, rich flavors, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top just before serving. The hint of fresh green color adds an inviting touch and a mild herbal note that complements the cheesy richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe makes a fantastic side for roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork. It also pairs wonderfully with green vegetables such as steamed broccoli, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp garden salad to balance out the creamy texture with some fresh crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Try serving spoonfuls of scalloped potatoes in individual ramekins for an elegant touch, or layer the potatoes in a cast-iron skillet to keep them warm and add rustic charm straight to the table. You can even mix in some cooked bacon or caramelized onions between layers to surprise your taste buds with extra savoriness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your scalloped potatoes tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. They stay delicious in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy the easy comfort of this dish even after the main event.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish either before or after baking. If freezing raw scalloped potatoes, cover them well and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as usual. Baked leftovers freeze best in portions and can be reheated without losing too much of that cheesy charm.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through, about 20 minutes. If you want that crispy golden top back, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture a bit watery instead of creamy and perfect.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes because they become tender but hold their shape, Yukon Gold potatoes also work great and provide a slightly creamier texture and buttery flavor.
Is there a lighter alternative for the cream in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a mix of milk and half-and-half to reduce fat content. Just keep in mind the sauce might be slightly less rich but still deliciously creamy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
With some tweaks, yes! Use plant-based milk like oat or almond milk and dairy-free butter substitutes. For cheese, try vegan cheese alternatives that melt well. The texture and flavor will be different, but it can still be a tasty comfort dish.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
The potatoes should be sliced about 1/8-inch thick—thin enough to cook through evenly and soak up the sauce, yet thick enough to maintain nice layers and texture after baking.
Can I add herbs or spices to customize the flavor?
Certainly! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of nutmeg can add interesting layers to your scalloped potatoes. Just add these during the sauce preparation for the flavors to infuse beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe truly shines as a timeless comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep close for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you need a little delicious indulgence. So go ahead and make it your own, savor every cheesy bite, and watch this dish become a beloved staple in your kitchen rotation!
Print
Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features thinly sliced russet potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce made with cheddar, Parmesan, and a touch of paprika for extra flavor. It’s a comforting side dish perfect for family dinners and holiday meals.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dairy
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dry Ingredients and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat to create a base for the creamy sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion to the butter and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release the flavors.
- Make Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour with the onion and garlic mixture, cooking for about 1 minute to form a roux which will thicken the sauce.
- Add Cream: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option) until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Simmer Sauce: Let the sauce simmer and thicken for about 3-5 minutes, then stir in the sour cream, salt, black pepper, and optional paprika for extra flavor.
- Layer Potatoes – First Layer: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in a prepared baking dish to ensure even cooking.
- Add Sauce and Cheese – First Layer: Pour half of the prepared sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Layer Potatoes – Second Layer: Repeat by layering the remaining sliced potatoes over the cheese.
- Add Sauce and Cheese – Second Layer: Pour over the rest of the sauce, spread evenly, and top with the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven for 45 minutes to cook the potatoes through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender, and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for added color and freshness before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute milk for heavy cream.
- You can use a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.
- Make sure to slice potatoes thinly and evenly for consistent baking.
- Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken further.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
