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Best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

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Introduction

Is there any side dish more comforting and universally adored than a rich, creamy potato bake? I believe there’s a special place at every table for a dish that feels like a warm hug, and that’s exactly what you get with this recipe. These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! They transform simple, humble ingredients into a show-stopping casserole that promises to steal the spotlight at any meal.

So, what makes These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! so special? It’s the flawless harmony of textures and flavors. Unlike many recipes that can turn out watery or bland, this version guarantees a luxuriously creamy sauce that clings to every single thinly sliced potato. A generous amount of high-quality cheese melts into the sauce, creating an incredibly rich and decadent experience. This dish is the ultimate make-ahead comfort food, ideal for busy weeknights or for feeding a hungry crowd during the holidays. It aligns perfectly with our blog’s mission to deliver reliable, crowd-pleasing recipes that work every single time. For another fantastic potato side, you must try our Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, though this cheesy version is in a league of its own. It’s the kind of dependable, impressive dish that becomes a cherished part of your family’s recipe rotation, much like our beloved Creamy Tuscan Chicken.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it never, ever fails me. It’s my secret weapon for potlucks and holiday dinners, and I always get bombarded with requests for the recipe. I love the process of layering the potatoes and knowing that I’m creating something truly special. The moment I pull the golden, bubbly dish from the oven, I feel a huge sense of accomplishment. These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! because they deliver incredible, restaurant-quality results with straightforward, easy-to-follow steps that anyone can master.

Health and Nutrition

Why it’s good for your body

These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! because they deliver a powerful nutritional punch. Potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, which actively supports healthy blood pressure and nerve function. Furthermore, they provide a steady release of energy due to their complex carbohydrates. The cheese sauce contributes a significant amount of calcium and protein, so it helps build strong bones and muscles.

Although it is a rich dish, you are still getting valuable vitamins. Potatoes are packed with Vitamin C, which bolsters your immune system, while the dairy offers Vitamin D for bone health. This meal also provides a good dose of B vitamins for energy metabolism. These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! for a comforting meal that truly nourishes your body from within.

Even though it feels indulgent, you are consuming real, whole foods. You can feel good about serving this dish to your family. So, enjoy every delicious bite knowing you are fueling your body with essential nutrients. These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! for combining incredible taste with genuine health benefits.

How it fits in a healthy lifestyle

These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! fit beautifully into a balanced diet when you enjoy them in moderation. Pair a sensible portion with a lean protein like grilled chicken or a large green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. For those with specific dietary needs, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for many. You can also easily adapt it to be vegetarian by using a vegetable broth.

When you plan your weekly meals, consider this recipe a hearty side dish that brings comfort and nutrition to the table. It is perfect for a weekend family dinner or a special occasion. For more ideas on creating a well-rounded plate, explore our guide on meal prep strategies. Remember, healthy eating includes enjoying the foods you love. If you are looking for other gluten-free comfort food options, our gluten-free dinner ideas are a great resource for inspiration.

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Scalloped Potatoes

  • Author: Dorothy Miler
  • Total Time: 2 hrs
  • Yield: 8 1x
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Description

These Scalloped Potatoes are a classic side dish that is perfect for any holiday meal or Sunday dinner. They are creamy, cheesy, and so delicious!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups milk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk. Cook and stir until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in salt and pepper.
  3. Layer half of the potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the sauce and half of the cheeses. Repeat layers.
  4. Cover and bake for 1 hour. Uncover and bake for 30 minutes more or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
  5. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with parsley.

Notes

For best results, slice potatoes uniformly about 1/8-inch thick for even cooking. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set up properly. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 1 hr 30 mins
  • Method: Side Dish
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 385
  • Sugar: 8
  • Sodium: 520
  • Fat: 18
  • Saturated Fat: 11
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5
  • Trans Fat: 1
  • Carbohydrates: 45
  • Fiber: 3
  • Protein: 14
  • Cholesterol: 50

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How to Prepare This Dish

Steps and time-saving tips

First, gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 375°F. Next, use a mandoline slicer to create uniformly thin potato slices; this step guarantees even cooking and saves you significant prep time. Meanwhile, whisk together your cream, milk, minced garlic, and seasonings in a large bowl to form the rich, flavorful sauce. After that, lightly grease your baking dish and begin layering. Start with a single layer of potato slices, then sprinkle a handful of your shredded cheese blend over them, and finally, drizzle a few spoonfuls of the cream mixture on top. Importantly, repeat this layering process until you use all your ingredients, finishing with a generous blanket of cheese. Then, cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Subsequently, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes until the top turns golden brown and bubbly. Finally, let the dish rest for 15 minutes before serving; this crucial step allows the sauce to thicken perfectly. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the top cheese layer. These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! when you follow these simple, active steps.

and-learned-from">Mistakes I’ve made and learned from

I have absolutely made my share of mistakes with this dish. Initially, I would slice my potatoes way too thick, which resulted in a frustratingly crunchy and undercooked center, no matter how long I baked them. I learned that investing in a simple mandoline slicer was a total game-changer for achieving that perfect, tender bite. Furthermore, I used to impatiently skip the resting time and serve them straight from the oven. Consequently, my beautiful sauce would just run all over the plate instead of clinging luxuriously to each potato slice. Now, I always use that mandatory 15-minute rest to toss together a quick simple side salad. Another error was using pre-shredded bagged cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Now, I always shred a block of cheese myself for the creamiest sauce, a tip I picked up from my ultimate creamy mac and cheese recipe. Learn from my errors for flawless results every time!

Cultural Connection and Variations

Where this recipe comes from

These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! because they carry the warmth of generations in every creamy, cheesy layer. Their roots stretch back to rural French kitchens, where the original gratin dauphinois featured potatoes baked in cream without cheese. When European immigrants brought the concept to America, they embraced the abundance of dairy, adding generous handfuls of sharp cheddar or gruyere to create a richer, more indulgent dish. This transformation happened in home kitchens and community gatherings, where each cook added their own signature touch. Some families use a dash of paprika for color, while others layer in sweet onions or a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch. The dish became a centerpiece at church suppers, family reunions, and holiday tables, symbolizing comfort and generosity. These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! not just for their flavor, but for the way they connect us to stories of adaptation, celebration, and shared meals around the table.

ays-cooking">How it fits in today’s cooking

This beloved casserole holds a cherished place in contemporary cooking because it balances tradition with modern flexibility. It remains a non-negotiable star at holiday feasts, especially when served alongside a perfectly roasted turkey or a glazed ham. Busy home cooks appreciate that they can prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it just before dinner, making it a practical choice for hectic weeks. Many are now putting creative spins on the classic, incorporating ingredients like caramelized shallots, roasted garlic, or even a layer of spinach for a nutritional boost. You can easily turn it into a standalone meal by adding protein, such as chunks of pre-cooked sausage or leftover roast chicken, which pairs wonderfully with a fresh, simple side like our Simple Lemon Herb Chicken Salad. For a comforting weekend brunch, serve a scoop of these potatoes next to a stack of sweet Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes to create a perfect sweet-and-savory plate. Its enduring popularity proves that true comfort food never goes out of style.

Taste and Texture

What makes it delicious

These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! because they deliver a masterclass in contrasting textures and rich, savory flavor. Each forkful begins with impossibly tender, thinly sliced potatoes that practically melt in your mouth. The creamy, velvety sauce made with sharp cheddar and nutty Gruyère clings to every slice. This sauce is deeply savory and fragrant with garlic and a hint of sweet onion, baking into a golden-brown crust on top that offers a satisfyingly crisp counterpoint to the soft layers beneath. The aroma that fills your kitchen is pure comfort, a warm and cheesy scent that promises a hearty, satisfying meal. These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! as they bake, so the top becomes beautifully bronzed and slightly chewy at the edges while the center remains luxuriously creamy and soft.

r">Boosting the flavor

You can easily amplify the flavor of this classic dish with a few simple tweaks. For a smoky depth, try adding crumbled cooked bacon or swapping the cheddar for a smoked Gouda between the potato layers. A sprinkle of paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper on top before baking introduces a warm, subtle heat that cuts through the richness beautifully. Consider serving them with a dollop of cool, tangy sour cream or a drizzle of our quick herb sauce for a fresh, bright contrast. If you crave even more crispy texture, a final topping of buttery panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan will create an irresistible golden crust. This side dish pairs wonderfully with a simple roasted protein, like our perfect roast chicken, for a complete and utterly satisfying meal.

Tips for Success

Best practices for results

For the best texture, always slice your potatoes uniformly because this ensures they cook at the same rate. Use freshly grated cheese from a block, as pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Additionally, allow your cream sauce to cool slightly before assembling the dish so it thickens properly in the oven. Finally, cover the baking dish with foil for the first half of the baking time to prevent the top from browning too quickly, although you should remove it for the final 20 minutes to achieve a beautifully golden crust. Following these steps is the secret to ensuring These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! every single time.

>Mistakes to avoid

A common error is putting the dish in the oven with a cold cream sauce, which often results in unevenly cooked potatoes; instead, warm your sauce on the stovetop first for more consistent results. Another frequent mistake is slicing the potatoes too thickly, even though a mandoline is the perfect tool for achieving those essential thin, even slices as shown in our guide on essential kitchen tools. Furthermore, do not skip the step of buttering your baking dish, because this simple act prevents frustrating sticking and makes serving much easier. Finally, always let your scalloped potatoes rest for 15 minutes after baking, so the sauce can set properly and you get clean slices instead of a soupy mess, a lesson we learned from perfecting our creamy mashed potatoes.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

How to serve this dish

Present These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! straight from the oven in their baking dish for a rustic, family-style feel that encourages sharing. For a more elegant presentation, however, carefully layer individual portions on warm plates. Furthermore, a final flourish of fresh, finely chopped chives or a sprinkle of paprika adds a vibrant pop of color against the golden cheese.

This dish is incredibly versatile for any gathering. Consequently, it is a show-stopping centerpiece for holiday feasts and Sunday suppers alike. Serve it at your next brunch alongside eggs, or simply enjoy it as the ultimate comfort food on a cozy weeknight. Ultimately, These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! turn any meal into a special occasion.

h-it">What goes well with it

For a truly memorable meal, pair this rich dish with a simple, crisp green salad. The fresh, acidic bite of a vinaigrette cuts through the decadent cheese sauce beautifully, creating a perfect balance on your palate. Our classic Easy Lemon Vinaigrette is an ideal choice for this.

In terms of protein, a juicy roasted meat is a fantastic partner. Specifically, a succulent herb-roasted chicken or a perfectly cooked roast beef provides a savory counterpoint that makes the entire plate sing. For a lighter option, a simple pan-seared salmon fillet also works wonderfully.

Finally, don’t forget the beverages. A chilled glass of crisp Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Noir complements the creamy, cheesy flavors exquisitely. Alternatively, for a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon cleanses the palate between each delicious bite, especially if you are also serving our tangy Creamy Cucumber Salad.

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What is the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin?

Scalloped potatoes traditionally bake in a creamy sauce without cheese, while potatoes au gratin include cheese and sometimes breadcrumbs for a browned, crispy top. This recipe for These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! combines the best of both, using a rich, creamy base and a generous amount of cheese for ultimate flavor.

How do you keep scalloped potatoes from being runny?

To prevent a runny sauce, ensure your cream sauce is thick enough before assembling, and let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to set properly, giving you the perfect, creamy consistency that makes These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection!

ank-math-faq-item"> What kind of cheese is best for scalloped potatoes?

A combination of sharp cheddar for flavor and Gruyère for its excellent melting qualities works best for These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are perfection! You can also incorporate Parmesan for a salty, nutty crust. Using a blend of high-quality cheeses is a key secret to achieving that perfect, gooey texture.

Can you make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to bake it. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since you will start with a cold dish. This make-ahead tip helps you serve this amazing side with ease.

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Dorothy Miler

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