Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled the golden-brown dish from the oven, the rich aroma of garlic and melted cheese wrapped around me like a warm hug. There’s something undeniably special about a plate of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes that transforms any gathering into a celebration. Creamy, comforting, and so easy to whip up, this dish is the perfect companion for family dinners or festive occasions. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create layers of tender potatoes kissed with rich cheese that everyone will crave. Plus, it makes for an impressive side that’s gluten-free adaptable, so even those with dietary restrictions can indulge. Are you curious about how to make this classic comfort food your own with creative variations on cheese and potatoes? Why You’ll Love Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Comforting and creamy, this recipe offers the ultimate indulgence that warms both heart and soul. Simple to prepare, you can easily impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Versatile variations allow you to experiment with different cheese combinations or spice levels. Paired effortlessly with dishes like Italian Meatloaf Savor, these scalloped potatoes will steal the show at any gathering. Satisfying textures create the perfect blend of creamy, gooey goodness with a crispy top that invites everyone back for seconds. Try it out and turn a classic dish into a beloved favorite! Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients Delight your taste buds with homemade Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes that you can customize! For the Potatoes Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes – Choose starchy varieties for a creamy base and structure; peeling is optional for added texture. For the Cream Sauce Unsalted Butter – Essential for making a roux; it gives you control over the dish’s saltiness. Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic warmth, enhancing the flavors without overwhelming the dish. All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the cream sauce; swap for a gluten-free blend with xanthan gum for a gluten-free adaptation. Heavy Cream & Whole Milk – Creates a luxurious, rich finish that envelopes the potatoes. Salt & Black Pepper – Key for seasoning the layers, enhancing the overall flavor profile. For the Cheese Layer Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Offers a tangy flavor; always shred your own for maximum meltiness. Monterey Jack Cheese – Adds creaminess; feel free to experiment with other cheeses for unique flavors. For Garnish Green Onions – A fresh touch that brings color and a mild onion flavor to the dish. Elevate your family meals with these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, providing the ultimate comfort food experience for everyone! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Perfectly Tender Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes won’t stick during baking. This container will house all those luscious layers of creamy goodness, so make sure it’s ready to go! Step 2: Slice the Potatoes If you prefer a smoother texture, peel your russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Using a mandoline slicer, cut them uniformly into 1/8-inch thick slices. This uniformity ensures even cooking and creamy consistency throughout the dish. Arrange the slices in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Step 3: Create the Roux Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant, about 1 minute. Whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until you have a smooth roux that’s slightly golden, enhancing the flavor base of your scalloped potatoes. Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce Gradually whisk in 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk, continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly, creating a rich, velvety sauce. You will know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon. Step 5: Season the Sauce Remove the saucepan from heat and season your cream sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. This seasoning will enhance the layers of flavor in your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Once seasoned, set the sauce aside for a moment while you layer the ingredients. Step 6: Layer the Potatoes and Cheese Begin layering the sliced potatoes in the greased baking dish, lightly sprinkling each layer with salt and pepper. Pour a portion of the cream sauce over the potatoes, then sprinkle generously with shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, ensuring the top layer is cheese for a delicious, golden crust. Step 7: Bake Covered Pour any remaining cream sauce over the layered potatoes and cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it into the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour. The potatoes should become fork-tender, revealing their creamy interior beneath the foil. Step 8: Finish Baking Once the cooking time has elapsed, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. Return the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. This step adds that irresistible crispy texture to the dish. Step 9: Rest and Serve Once out of the oven, allow the dish to rest for 10-15 minutes. This crucial step lets the layers set, making serving easier. Before indulging, garnish with fresh green onions for a pop of color and subtle flavor that perfectly complements your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a fantastic option for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can slice the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance; simply place them in a bowl of water mixed with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. Additionally, prepare the creamy sauce a day prior and refrigerate it until you’re ready to layer. When it’s time to bake, assemble the dish by layering the potatoes and cheese, pour the sauce over them, and follow the baking instructions as usual. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors with minimal effort, allowing you to savor a comforting homemade meal anytime. How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Bake at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated through, approximately 20-30 minutes. For a crispy top, uncover for the last 10-15 minutes. Make-Ahead: Prepare the dish a day in advance, storing it in the fridge before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring you serve the best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Variations Unleash your culinary creativity and make this dish uniquely yours, tantalizing every taste bud! Different Cheeses: Mix sharp cheddar with Gruyère or Fontina for an adventurous take on flavors, adding depth and complexity. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to your cream sauce for a delightful heat that contrasts the creaminess beautifully. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cream sauce for an aromatic twist that elevates this classic dish. Vegetable Boost: Layer in thinly sliced zucchini or sautéed mushrooms along with your potatoes for added texture and flavor, making the dish even more vibrant. Sweetness Twist: Swap out some of the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweet and earthy flavor contrast that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Bacon Love: Layer crispy bacon pieces between potato and cheese layers for a savory crunch that everyone will love, elevating your comfort food experience. Creamy Alternatives: For a lighter option, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a non-dairy option for similar creaminess without all the calories. Up the Greens: Sprinkle in some fresh spinach or kale near the end of baking for a nutritious boost that won’t compromise the creamy texture. With these enhancements, you can pair your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with dishes like a comforting Italian Meatloaf Savor or alongside a light and refreshing salad! What to Serve with Perfectly Tender Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Imagine a comforting meal that perfectly complements the luscious layers of creamy cheese and tender potatoes. Roasted Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, the crispy skin will provide a delightful contrast to the velvety scalloped potatoes. Grilled Steak: A perfectly seared steak brings a savory richness that pairs beautifully with the creamy goodness of the potatoes, creating a hearty dinner. Steamed Broccoli: This bright green veggie adds a fresh, crisp element to your meal, balancing the richness of the scalloped potatoes. Crisp Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast and helps to cut through the creaminess, enhancing your dining experience. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness complements the savory notes of the cheesy potatoes, bringing harmony to your plate. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread offers an irresistible way to scoop up the creamy sauce. It’s perfect for those who want every last bite! Savory Meatloaf: As a classic comfort food, meatloaf pairs seamlessly with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, making for a nostalgic family meal. Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Merlot or Pinot Noir, will elevate your dining experience, enhancing the flavors of this indulgent dish. Expert Tips for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Uniform Slices: Ensure even cooking by slicing potatoes uniformly with a mandoline. This prevents some slices from being undercooked while others become mushy. Retain Starch: Avoid rinsing your sliced potatoes post-cutting! Keeping the starch will help thicken your cream sauce, yielding a richer texture. Layer Wisely: Season each layer of potato with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor, rather than just the top layer. Rest Before Serving: Always let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps set the layers and allows for easier serving of your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Foil Tactics: Cover your baking dish tightly with foil during the first baking phase to retain moisture, then bake uncovered to achieve that golden crispy top. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe FAQs What type of potatoes should I use for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes? Absolutely! Starchy varieties like russet or Yukon Gold are ideal for a creamy texture. If you prefer a firmer texture, waxy potatoes like red potatoes can be used, but note that they may not yield the same creaminess. How long can I store leftovers of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to help maintain its freshness and avoid sogginess. Can I freeze Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes? Yes, you can! To freeze, wait until the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes have completely cooled. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F (175°C), covered, for about 20-30 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to get that crispy top. What if my cream sauce is too thick when making Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes? No worries! If your sauce becomes too thick, simply whisk in a little more heavy cream or whole milk, a splash at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Make sure to keep it over low heat while you’re doing this, stirring constantly to ensure the sauce remains smooth. Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind when making Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes? Very! If you’re making this dish for someone with gluten sensitivities, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend containing xanthan gum without sacrificing texture. Always check labels for any allergies related to specific cheeses or dairy, as some people may have sensitivities to certain ingredients. Can I make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance. Assemble the layers of potatoes, cream sauce, and cheese, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply adjust the bake time as you may need a bit longer due to the ingredients being cold. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and can enhance the overall taste! Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes That Comfort Every Bite Indulge in creamy cheesy scalloped potatoes that are comforting and perfect for any gathering. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes minsResting Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 50 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Potatoes2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes Peeling is optionalFor the Cream Sauce4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Essential for making a roux2 cloves Garlic (minced) For flavor enhancement1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Thickens the cream sauce2 cups Heavy Cream For a rich finish1 cup Whole Milk Adds creaminessto taste Saltto taste Black PepperFor the Cheese Layer2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Always shred your own1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese Adds creaminessFor Garnish3 tablespoons Green Onions For a fresh touch Equipment 9x13-inch baking dishmandoline slicerMedium saucepan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.Slice the potatoes uniformly into 1/8-inch thick slices and arrange in the prepared baking dish.Melt butter in a medium saucepan, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Whisk in flour and stir for 1-2 minutes until golden.Gradually whisk in heavy cream and whole milk, simmering for 5-7 minutes until thickened.Season the cream sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.Layer the sliced potatoes in the dish, sprinkling each layer with salt and pepper, then pour cream sauce and sprinkle cheese.Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour.Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.Allow the dish to rest for 10-15 minutes before garnishing with green onions and serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, slice potatoes uniformly and avoid rinsing after slicing to retain starch. Let the dish rest before serving for easier portioning. 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