Ultimate Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: 1 Amazing Recipe

Name: Ultimate Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: 1 Amazing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 russet potatoes (peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds, about 2 pounds); 1 yellow onion (sliced into thin rings); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups whole milk (room temperature); 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese (shredded); ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor); ¼ teaspoon paprika (for color and mild smokiness); ¼ cup parmesan cheese (grated, for a crispy top layer)

by Jannet Lisa

10 de October de 2025

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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes has been a staple in my family for as long as I can remember. I still recall the comforting aroma filling my grandmother’s kitchen every holiday, a scent that instantly brings warmth and nostalgia. The first time I tried to recreate her masterpiece, I was nervous, but the result was a rich, bubbling dish of tender potatoes bathed in a luscious cheese sauce. It was pure comfort food, melting in my mouth with every bite. This isn’t just any potato dish; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. This easy cheesy scalloped potato recipe has become my go-to for gatherings, always earning rave reviews. You’ll love how the creamy texture and savory flavors come together in this delightful potato bake. It’s truly the best way to enjoy Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

I promise, once you try this recipe, it will become a family favorite! Here are just a few reasons why this cheesy scalloped potatoes dish is simply irresistible:

The taste is incredibly rich and comforting, with perfectly tender potatoes swimming in a velvety cheese sauce.
It’s surprisingly easy to make, with straightforward steps that even a novice cook can master for this delightful potato bake with cheese.
This hearty potato bake with cheese is budget-friendly, using common ingredients you likely already have on hand.

It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts.
My recipe for cheesy scalloped potatoes offers a wonderful balance of flavor and texture, making every bite a joy.
While not a health food, it offers satisfying warmth and nutrients, making it a wonderful occasional treat.

Ingredients for Homemade Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these incredibly delicious homemade cheesy scalloped potatoes. I’ve found that using quality ingredients makes all the difference for that perfect creamy texture and rich flavor:

4 russet potatoes – peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds (about 2 pounds); I use a mandoline for perfectly even slices.
1 yellow onion – sliced into thin rings; this adds a subtle sweetness that complements the potatoes.

3 tablespoons unsalted butter – the base for our rich roux.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – essential for thickening our luscious scalloped potatoes with cheese sauce.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – seasons the sauce perfectly.

½ teaspoon black pepper – for a touch of warmth.
2 cups whole milk – at room temperature; this helps prevent the sauce from clumping.
1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese – shredded; this is the star of our scalloped potatoes with cheese sauce, providing that classic gooey goodness.

½ teaspoon garlic powder – optional, but I highly recommend it for an extra layer of savory flavor.
¼ teaspoon paprika – for a lovely color and a hint of smokiness.
¼ cup parmesan cheese – grated; this creates a wonderfully crispy and flavorful top layer.

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Making these glorious cheesy scalloped potatoes is simpler than you might think, and the result is always worth the effort. Follow these steps for a perfectly golden and bubbly dish that will impress everyone.

Step 1: First, you’ll want to prepare your ingredients and oven. Preheat your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). Then, generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a good nonstick spray. I always peel my potatoes before slicing them into beautiful ¼-inch rounds; a mandoline makes this incredibly easy and ensures even cooking for your cheesy scalloped potatoes. Don’t forget to thinly slice that yellow onion into delicate rings too.
Step 2: Now, let’s create that irresistible cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over a gentle medium heat. Whisk in the flour, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder (if you’re using it), and paprika. Stir this mixture for about 1 minute until it’s smooth and fragrant, forming a lovely roux. Gradually, and I mean gradually, whisk in the room-temperature whole milk, stirring constantly. This prevents lumps and ensures a silky smooth sauce. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens beautifully, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat, then stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and delightfully smooth. This is the heart of your creamy scalloped potatoes with cheese sauce.

Step 3: Time to assemble this amazing cheesy potato casserole! Arrange about half of your carefully sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Next, distribute half of the thinly sliced onions over the potatoes. Pour half of that glorious cheese sauce evenly over the potato and onion layers. Repeat this layering process with the remaining potatoes, onions, and the rest of the cheese sauce. Finally, sprinkle the top generously with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and the ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese. This will give your cheesy scalloped potatoes that perfect golden crust.
Step 4: Bake your masterpiece to perfection! Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in your preheated oven for 45 minutes. This initial covered baking time allows the potatoes to become wonderfully tender. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender. This creates the most delicious cheesy potato casserole.
Step 5: The hardest part – waiting! Let your magnificent cheesy scalloped potatoes rest for 5-10 minutes before you even think about serving them. This resting period allows the sauce to set slightly, making for cleaner slices and a more enjoyable experience. Enjoy!

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Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that truly elevate these cheesy scalloped potatoes from good to absolutely incredible. These expert tips will help you achieve that perfect creamy texture and rich flavor every single time, ensuring your dish is a showstopper.

Always slice your potatoes to an even ¼-inch thickness. A mandoline is your best friend here, as uniformity is key for even cooking.

Don’t rush the cheese sauce! Gently whisking the milk and melting the cheese slowly ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce that coats every potato slice beautifully.
Let your finished dish rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to set, preventing a watery mess when you serve your delicious cheesy scalloped potatoes.
Use room-temperature milk and cheese. Cold ingredients can cause the sauce to seize or curdle, which we definitely want to avoid for the creamiest result.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

The real secret lies in two things: uniform potato slices and a perfectly thickened, flavorful cheese sauce. Using a mandoline ensures every potato cooks at the same rate, creating a consistently tender texture. A rich, well-seasoned sauce is what makes these truly rich cheesy scalloped potatoes, binding everything together in creamy perfection.

Can I make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesy potato side dish recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

To prevent watery cheesy scalloped potatoes, ensure your cheese sauce is adequately thickened before layering, and don’t skip the resting period after baking. Also, use the recommended potato type (like Russet or Yukon Gold) as waxy potatoes can release too much moisture. Overcrowding the dish can also steam rather than bake, leading to a less desirable texture.

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Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

These glorious cheesy scalloped potatoes are a show-stopping side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. I love serving them alongside a succulent roasted chicken or a perfectly grilled steak for a comforting weeknight dinner. The rich, creamy texture of this potato bake complements savory meats wonderfully, creating a balanced and satisfying plate.

For a festive spread, these are my go-to holiday cheesy scalloped potatoes. They’re a fantastic addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, complementing turkey, ham, or prime rib. Don’t forget to add some vibrant green beans or a crisp garden salad to cut through the richness and complete your meal. They also shine as part of a brunch spread, especially with ham or bacon.

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

I always find it helpful to have an idea of the nutritional breakdown, especially when these delicious cheesy scalloped potatoes are part of a larger meal. Based on approximately 8 servings per recipe, here’s what you can expect:

Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 9g

Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g

Sodium: 310mg

Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary slightly depending on the specific brands and precise measurements of ingredients used in your homemade cheesy scalloped potatoes.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

One of the best things about these delicious cheesy scalloped potatoes is how well they store and reheat, making them perfect for leftovers or meal prepping. After enjoying your initial serving, allow the remaining dish to cool completely at room temperature. This is crucial to prevent condensation and maintain quality.

Once cooled, transfer your cheesy potato gratin into an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you’re looking for a longer storage solution, you can freeze individual portions or the entire dish. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

To reheat, I prefer using the oven. If refrigerated, cover the container or dish with foil and bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight first, then follow the same oven method. For smaller portions, the microwave works, but the edges of your cheesy potato gratin might not get as crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

What are the best potatoes for cheesy scalloped potatoes?

For the ultimate creamy and tender cheesy scalloped potatoes, I always recommend using starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold. Russets break down slightly, contributing to the creamy texture, while Yukon Golds offer a buttery flavor and hold their shape beautifully. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they tend to stay firm and can make your dish less cohesive.

Why do my cheesy scalloped potatoes turn out watery?

This is a common issue, and I’ve learned a few tricks! Your cheesy scalloped potatoes can become watery if the cheese sauce isn’t thick enough, or if the potatoes release too much moisture. To prevent this, ensure your sauce is properly thickened on the stove. Also, letting the dish rest for 10-15 minutes after baking allows the sauce to set and reabsorb any excess liquid, resulting in a perfectly creamy consistency.

Can I add other vegetables to my cheesy scalloped potatoes?

Absolutely! I love experimenting with additions to my cheesy scalloped potatoes. Finely diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or even a layer of spinach can add extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to pre-cook any high-moisture vegetables to prevent your potato bake from becoming watery. This ensures your cheesy potato casserole remains perfectly delicious.

What kind of cheese should I use for cheesy scalloped potatoes?

While my recipe calls for mild cheddar, the best cheesy scalloped potatoes often come from a blend of cheeses! I love using sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor, or Gruyère for a nutty, sophisticated touch. You can also mix in some Monterey Jack for extra meltiness or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a salty crust. Feel free to get creative and use your favorite cheese combinations to make these rich cheesy scalloped potatoes truly your own.

Variations of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes You Can Try

While my classic recipe for cheesy scalloped potatoes is a beloved favorite, there are so many delicious ways to customize this dish to suit your taste or dietary needs. I love to experiment in the kitchen, and these variations are perfect for keeping things exciting!

Add Bacon or Ham: For a heartier, more savory dish, crisp up some bacon and crumble it between the potato layers, or add diced cooked ham. This transforms it into a full meal in itself!
Spicy Kick: If you’re like me and enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce. It gives your cheesy scalloped potatoes a wonderful, subtle warmth.

Different Cheeses: Don’t feel limited to just cheddar. Gruyère offers a nutty, sophisticated flavor, while a blend of Fontina and Parmesan creates an incredibly rich and complex cheesy potato casserole.
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives into your sauce or sprinkle them between layers. They add a fresh, aromatic dimension to your otherwise classic cheesy scalloped potatoes.