Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any occasion. Made with thinly sliced potatoes layered in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, this baked classic is the kind of dish that brings everyone back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner, a holiday feast, or simply want to elevate your weeknight meal, scalloped potatoes bring both elegance and homestyle comfort to the table.

With golden, bubbly edges and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior, this recipe delivers layers of flavor and texture. The combination of tender potatoes, rich cream, and melted cheese makes every bite deeply satisfying. Plus, it’s a flexible dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains — from roasted chicken and grilled vegetables to festive entrees. It’s simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, making it a timeless favorite across all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy, and packed with cheesy goodness
• Perfect as a side dish for holidays, dinners, or potlucks
• Simple to make with easy-to-find ingredients
• Satisfying comfort food that complements any meal
• Great for making ahead and reheating later
• Golden, crispy top with tender, melt-in-your-mouth layers
• Customizable with herbs, spices, or add-ins
• A classic dish that everyone loves — even picky eaters

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 1 hour
• Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 generous scoop (about 1 cup)

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 430
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 11g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Scalloped Potatoes:

• 1.2kg potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped or thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp butter or plant-based butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 cup heavy cream or thick cooking cream (or coconut cream alternative)
• 150g shredded cheddar cheese
• 100g shredded mozzarella or gouda cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp dried thyme or parsley (optional)

For the Topping:

• 50g grated cheddar or parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp butter (optional for extra golden topping)
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the potatoes

• Wash, peel, and thinly slice potatoes to about 2–3mm thickness using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer.
• Soak the slices in water briefly to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry.

2. Make the cheese sauce

• In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
• Stir in flour to form a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
• Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
• Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
• Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
• Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.

3. Layer the potatoes

• Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 23x33cm baking dish with butter.
• Spread a thin layer of cheese sauce on the bottom of the dish.
• Add a layer of potato slices, slightly overlapping.
• Pour more cheese sauce over the layer, spreading evenly.
• Repeat layering potatoes and sauce until all ingredients are used.
• Finish with a generous layer of cheese sauce on top.

4. Add the topping

• Sprinkle extra cheese over the top.
• Dot with small amounts of butter for a crisp, golden finish if desired.

5. Bake to perfection

• Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake for another 20–25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.
• Check for doneness by piercing potatoes with a knife — they should be tender all the way through.

6. Rest and serve

• Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives and serve warm.

Ingredient Background

• Potatoes are the heart of this dish — starchy varieties like Yukon Gold or Russet provide a creamy texture and absorb the sauce well.
• Cheddar cheese delivers a sharp, rich flavor, while mozzarella or gouda adds melty creaminess.
• Milk and cream form the luscious base of the sauce, making it thick, velvety, and rich.
• Onions and garlic powder add savory depth and aromatic complexity.
• Herbs like thyme or parsley elevate the flavor with a subtle earthy touch.
• Butter and flour create a classic roux, ensuring the sauce has body and smooth texture.

Technique Tips

• Slice potatoes evenly so they cook uniformly.
• Use a mandoline for precision and speed when slicing.
• Layer the sauce generously between each layer to prevent dryness.
• Cover with foil during the first half of baking to trap moisture, then uncover to brown the top.
• Allow the dish to rest before serving so the layers can set and flavors meld.
• For extra richness, add a small amount of cream cheese or sour cream to the sauce.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Bake in individual ramekins for personal-sized servings.
• Use a cast iron skillet for a rustic presentation with excellent heat retention.
• Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant dinner setting.
• Serve on a wooden board with a drizzle of garlic-infused oil and herbs.
• Shape into towers using a round cutter for a plated gourmet look.
• Present in a ceramic casserole dish with a golden top for a family-style dinner.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use freshly grated cheese — pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly due to added starch.
• Taste the sauce before layering and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Let potatoes soak in water to remove excess starch — this prevents gummy layers.
• Don’t overbake — check doneness at the 1-hour mark to avoid drying out.
• Add extra layers of onion slices between potatoes for stronger flavor.
• Make sure sauce consistency is creamy but not too thick before layering.

Recipe Variations

• Add thin slices of zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes for layered color and flavor.
• Mix in sautéed mushrooms, leeks, or spinach for extra vegetables.
• Add cooked, shredded chicken for a hearty one-dish meal.
• Swap cheddar with gruyere or fontina for a richer flavor profile.
• Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
• Use dairy-free milk and vegan cheese for a plant-based version.
• Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes in the sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 180°C for 15–20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Freeze unbaked or baked scalloped potatoes for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a splash of milk or cream for moisture.
• Cover tightly with foil during reheating to retain moisture and prevent overbrowning.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use half milk and half vegetable broth in the sauce to reduce fat.
• Substitute heavy cream with a lighter cream or evaporated milk.
• Choose low-fat cheese or reduce cheese quantity while increasing herbs and spices.
• Use sweet potatoes for more fiber and nutrients.
• Add layers of steamed cauliflower or broccoli for added vegetables.
• Sprinkle flaxseed or ground oats between layers for extra texture and fiber.
• Serve with a fresh green salad to balance richness with lightness.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Serve as a holiday side dish with roasted meats or stuffed vegetables.
• Add to a buffet spread with other casseroles and seasonal sides.
• Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty stew for a balanced meal.
• Include in a brunch table alongside quiches and roasted vegetables.
• Present as a cozy side dish for winter gatherings and potlucks.
• Serve in individual baking dishes with personalized toppings.
• Offer alongside herb rolls, cranberry sauce, and greens for festive feasts.

Special Equipment

• Mandoline slicer or sharp knife for even potato slices
• Saucepan for cheese sauce
• Whisk for smooth sauce blending
• Large baking dish or casserole pan
• Foil for covering during baking
• Spatula or serving spoon
• Grater for fresh cheese

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

• Yes, assemble it in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving or reheat later.

2. What type of potatoes is best?

• Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold work best for creamy, tender layers.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?

• Absolutely — use plant-based butter, milk, cream, and cheese substitutes.

4. Why do my scalloped potatoes come out watery?

• Ensure sauce is thick enough before layering, and dry the potato slices well after soaking.

5. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

• You can, but fresh-grated cheese melts better and gives a smoother texture.

6. Can I freeze this dish?

• Yes. Freeze baked or unbaked, and thaw before reheating in the oven.

7. What’s the difference between scalloped and au gratin potatoes?

• Scalloped potatoes use a cream-based sauce, while au gratin typically includes cheese layers and often breadcrumbs on top.

8. How do I reheat leftovers?

• Cover with foil and warm in a 180°C oven until heated through. Add a splash of milk if needed.

Conclusion

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate side dish — creamy, comforting, and full of flavor. With soft, tender layers of potatoes nestled in a rich cheese sauce and finished with a golden top, it’s the kind of dish that makes every meal feel special. Whether for a casual dinner or an elegant celebration, it brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

From the crispy edges to the velvety interior, this classic recipe is a must-have in your cooking repertoire. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and loved by all, it’s a timeless favorite that never fails to impress. Serve it once, and you’ll be asked for it again — and again.

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