Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

A rich and creamy cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe, similar to potatoes au gratin, with layers of tender potatoes baked in a garlicky, cheesy cream sauce. This comforting side dish is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any family meal!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra creamy and cheesy – Layers of thinly sliced potatoes covered in a rich cheese sauce.
• Perfect for holidays and gatherings – A crowd-pleasing dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.
• Easy to customize – Add bacon, ham, or different cheeses for variety.
• Make-ahead friendly – Assemble in advance and bake when ready.

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Preparation Phase & Essential Tools

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

• Mandoline slicer or sharp knife – Ensures even potato slices for uniform cooking.
• Large saucepan – For making the creamy cheese sauce.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch preferred) – The perfect size for even layers.
• Whisk – Helps prevent lumps in the sauce.
• Aluminum foil – Covers the dish to retain moisture while baking.

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Ingredients (Serves 8)

Main Ingredients:

• 2 ½ pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 40 ounces)
• 3 tablespoons butter (1.5 ounces)
• ½ onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 ½ cups heavy cream (20 ounces)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheese Layer:

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (1.5 ounces)
• 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated (from a 12-ounce block)
• 1 tablespoon chives, chopped (optional garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel the potatoes (optional).
2. Slice them evenly to ⅛ to ¼-inch thick using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté for about 3 minutes, until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and thyme; cook for 1 minute.
4. Sprinkle flour into the pan and stir continuously for 1 minute.
5. Slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Add salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using) for flavor.
7. Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
3. Layer half of the potato slices evenly at the bottom of the dish.
4. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
5. Sprinkle half of the remaining shredded cheese on top.
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, cheese sauce, and cheese.
7. Garnish with chopped chives or fresh thyme (optional).

4. Bake the Potatoes

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
2. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

5. Serve & Enjoy

• Let cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with extra chives, parsley, or thyme for a fresh touch.

Serving Suggestions

These cheesy scalloped potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes and sides. Whether you are serving them for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, here are some great pairing ideas:

Best Main Dish Pairings

1. Grilled Chicken – A simple, lightly seasoned grilled chicken balances the richness of the potatoes.
2. Roast Beef – The hearty flavors of roast beef and creamy potatoes create a classic combination.
3. Honey-Glazed Ham – A perfect match for Easter or Christmas dinners, the sweetness of the ham contrasts beautifully with the savory potatoes.
4. Pork Chops – Whether pan-seared or baked, pork chops complement the cheesy goodness of this dish.
5. Salmon – A well-seasoned baked or grilled salmon provides a fresh, slightly tangy contrast.

Best Side Dish Pairings

1. Steamed Broccoli – A simple, healthy vegetable that adds color and a fresh crunch.
2. Green Bean Almondine – Green beans with toasted almonds bring a slightly nutty, crisp texture to the meal.
3. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts add a caramelized, slightly bitter contrast to the creamy potatoes.
4. Garlic Bread – For those who love extra carbs, garlic bread makes an indulgent side.
5. Caesar Salad – A crisp, tangy Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
6. Coleslaw – A vinegar-based coleslaw cuts through the creaminess and balances the meal.
7. Roasted Carrots – Slightly sweet roasted carrots add depth and color to the plate.
8. Sauteed Mushrooms – Earthy, buttery mushrooms enhance the umami flavors in the cheese sauce.

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Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

1. Slicing the Potatoes Too Thick

Thicker slices take longer to cook, leading to undercooked potatoes. For the best results, use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to ensure even slices between ⅛ and ¼ inch thick.

2. Using the Wrong Type of Potatoes

Russet potatoes provide a soft, creamy texture, while Yukon Golds hold their shape better. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they don’t absorb the sauce as well.

3. Not Cooking the Sauce Properly

A grainy or runny sauce can ruin the dish. When making the sauce:

• Stir constantly while adding the heavy cream to prevent lumps.
• Ensure the cheese is completely melted before removing it from heat.
• Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

4. Skipping the Flour or Thickener

Flour helps thicken the cheese sauce, ensuring it clings to the potatoes rather than pooling at the bottom. Skipping this step can result in a watery consistency.

5. Baking at the Wrong Temperature

Baking at a temperature too high can cause the cheese to burn before the potatoes cook through. Stick to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking. Covering the dish with foil for the first 40 minutes helps prevent drying out.

6. Not Letting the Dish Rest Before Serving

Cutting into the potatoes immediately after baking can cause the sauce to be too runny. Allowing the dish to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving helps the sauce thicken and settle.

7. Overloading with Cheese on Top Too Early

If all the cheese is added at the beginning, it can burn before the potatoes finish cooking. To get the perfect golden-brown top, reserve some cheese to add in the last 20 minutes of baking.

8. Making the Dish Too Far in Advance Without Adjustments

If making the dish ahead, the potatoes may absorb the sauce, making them dry when reheated. To prevent this, add an extra ½ cup of cream before baking or when reheating.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can make perfectly creamy, flavorful scalloped potatoes every time.

Expert Tips for the Best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grate a block of cheddar for a richer, creamier texture.

2. Balance the Creaminess

For an extra creamy sauce without it being too heavy, swap half of the heavy cream with whole milk. This keeps the dish rich but not overly dense.

3. Enhance the Flavor

Adding a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika can give the dish more depth. A bit of Dijon mustard stirred into the sauce also enhances the cheese flavor.

4. Make It Crispier

For a crispier topping, sprinkle a mix of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese over the final cheese layer before baking.

5. Layer Evenly

Make sure the potatoes are layered evenly so they cook at the same rate. Overlapping too many slices in one area can cause uneven cooking.

6. Add a Protein Option

If serving this dish as a main course, consider adding cooked bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken between the layers for extra heartiness.

7. Adjust for Dietary Needs

For a gluten-free version, replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. If you need a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerating Leftovers

• Let the dish cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish with plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing for Later

• To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until heated through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top.
• Microwave: Reheat individual portions in a microwave-safe dish in 30-second intervals, stirring in between for even heating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.

2. Why are my potatoes still hard after baking?

This happens if the slices are too thick or not fully covered with sauce. Use a mandoline slicer for even slicing and ensure each layer is coated with sauce before baking.

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

Scalloped potatoes typically have a creamy sauce without cheese, while au gratin potatoes include cheese in every layer. This recipe is a fusion of both, featuring a rich, cheesy sauce.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes. While cheddar is the most common choice, other great options include Gruyère, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or a mix of different cheeses for more depth of flavor.

5. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?

A grainy sauce can result from overheating or using pre-shredded cheese. To prevent this:

• Use freshly grated cheese.
• Stir continuously while melting the cheese to prevent curdling.
• Remove from heat as soon as the cheese is melted and smooth.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes. Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative, and use plant-based butter and cheese. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

7. What should I do if my scalloped potatoes turn out too dry?

If the dish is dry after baking, add a small amount of warm heavy cream or milk before reheating. This helps bring back the creamy texture.

8. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Layer the potatoes and cheese sauce in a greased slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender. Add extra cheese on top in the last 30 minutes for a golden finish.

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Final Thoughts

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With their creamy texture, rich cheese sauce, and golden top layer, they make an irresistible side dish for holidays, gatherings, or everyday meals. Whether served alongside roast beef, ham, or grilled chicken, they complement a variety of dishes.

By following these expert tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure your scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly creamy, flavorful, and tender every time. Make them ahead for convenience, customize them with extra ingredients, and store leftovers easily for later enjoyment.

Try this recipe for your next family dinner or holiday gathering and see why it’s a favorite. Enjoy every bite of this warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish!