Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and downright irresistible, then this Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. I absolutely love how the cheese melts right into those tender layers of potatoes, creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a holiday feast, it’s surprisingly simple to pull off and always delivers on flavor.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe brings something special to the table, creating rich layers of flavor and creaminess. I like using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes because they slice nicely and give a lovely texture after baking.

• Cheddar cheese: Freshly grated for that melty, robust cheese flavor that’s the star here.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a slightly nutty and salty kick, balancing the cheddar perfectly.
• Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes: Firm enough to hold their shape, yet tender when baked.
• Butter: Keeps the garlic fragrant and adds richness to the cream sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic infuses the cream with a subtle, savory aroma.
• Heavy or whipping cream: Makes the sauce decadently creamy without being too heavy.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
• Pepper: Adds a bit of warmth – add it to taste.

Variations

I love how easy it is to tweak this recipe to suit your preferences. Whether you want it a little spicier, lighter, or loaded with extras, there’s room for customization that makes it your own.

• Add herbs like thyme or rosemary: I tried this once and the fresh herbs elevated the flavors perfectly without overpowering the cheese.
• Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream: For a lighter version, swapping the cream works well, though it won’t be quite as decadent.
• Include cooked bacon or ham bits: My family went wild when I added crispy bacon to the layers—it’s a fantastic way to turn this into a hearty meal.
• Try other cheeses: Gruyere or mozzarella can be mixed in for different flavor profiles that keep things interesting.

How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and position the rack in the middle. While the oven heats, grate your cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Peel your potatoes and use a mandoline slicer to cut them into uniform 1/8-inch slices—this ensures even cooking and a lovely texture. Trust me, a mandoline is a game changer here, and don’t forget a protective glove to keep your fingers safe!

Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic, cooking it just about 30 seconds until fragrant (you don’t want it to brown). Pour in the heavy cream, then season with salt and pepper. Stir occasionally while the mixture warms up, and once it starts to boil, take it off the heat immediately. This sauce is the magic that brings everything together.

Step 3: Layer Everything Up

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and start by layering half of the potato slices, overlapping them but no need to be perfect. Pour half of your creamy garlic sauce evenly over the potatoes, then sprinkle half of the cheese blend on top. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, cream, and cheese, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top. A little mess is expected, so consider placing your baking dish on a baking sheet to catch any spills.

Step 4: Bake to Cheesy Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick slides smoothly into the potatoes with little resistance. Don’t be shy about checking early if your oven tends to run hot! Once out of the oven, let it rest 5-10 minutes—this helps the sauce thicken and makes serving a breeze.

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

I like to top mine with freshly chopped chives or parsley—it adds a fresh pop of color and just a touch of brightness against all that creamy cheese. Sometimes a sprinkle of crispy fried onions on top adds a wonderful crunch that my family always loves.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken or beef, and some simple green veggies like steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad keep the meal balanced. One of my go-to combos is garlic butter roasted green beans alongside these scalloped potatoes—comfort food bliss!

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I’ve layered this recipe in individual ramekins instead of a casserole dish—each guest gets their own perfectly bubbly, cheesy portion. It feels a little fancy without extra effort, making it perfect for dinner parties or holidays.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I’ve found that storing leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge works best to keep them fresh for up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, let them come to room temperature before reheating to get the best texture.

Freezing

If I have extra, I portion the scalloped potatoes into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. While the texture softens slightly after freezing, the creamy cheese sauce still holds up well and tastes delicious.

Reheating

For reheating, I prefer baking in a 325°F oven, covered with foil to keep moisture in, for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. Pop it under the broiler for a minute or two if you want to revive that golden cheesy top.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe feels like a warm hug from the inside every time I make it. It’s one of those dishes that effortlessly brings people together around the table, whether for a cozy weeknight or a festive celebration. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is and how fast it disappears. I can’t wait for you to experience those creamy, cheesy layers for yourself and hear your own stories of success with this classic comfort food.

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