If you’re craving a dish that radiates warmth and comfort, you’ve got to try this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. Layers of tender thinly sliced russet potatoes are baked in a velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella, perfectly seasoned with garlic and onion powders. Every bite delivers a luscious combination of rich, melty cheese and buttery softness that feels like a cozy hug for your taste buds. This recipe manages to be both simple enough for weeknights and special enough to impress guests at holiday gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are fans of simplicity but play crucial roles in giving this dish its unforgettable taste, texture, and irresistible golden crust. Each component works in harmony to elevate these scalloped potatoes from humble to heavenly.
- 2 lbs russet potatoes: Choose starchy russets for fluffy, creamy layers that absorb the cheese sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create the base for that luscious roux.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The magic thickener that turns milk into a smooth, creamy sauce.
- 2 cups whole milk: Provides the perfect creamy consistency without overpowering the cheese flavors.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Gives a bold, tangy bite that defines the dish’s cheesy character.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and lends a delightful stretchiness and milder flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses just the right amount of savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savoriness and complements the garlic.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to brighten the dish.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, vibrant garnish that makes this cheesy casserole look as good as it tastes.
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the heat rises, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your potatoes won’t stick and gives the edges a subtle crispiness, which we all adore in scalloped potatoes.
Step 2: Creating the Rich Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s gently bubbling. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute; this step gets rid of the raw flour taste and forms the base for a silky roux. Next, slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly—this prevents lumps and creates a smooth, thickened sauce. Once the sauce starts to thicken, stir in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until every bit of cheese melts into a dreamy, glossy sauce.
Step 3: Layering the Potatoes and Sauce
Now, take half of your thinly sliced potatoes and layer them evenly on the bottom of your prepared dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes, spreading it gently to cover every nook and cranny. Repeat this layering with the remaining potatoes and sauce, building a luscious tower of cheesy goodness ready for baking.
Step 4: Baking to Golden Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 45 minutes to let the potatoes soften and all those flavors meld beautifully. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes so the top becomes golden brown and irresistibly bubbly. When you take it out, let it rest for 10 minutes—this helps everything set so it slices and serves perfectly.
How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds that final pop of color and freshness to brighten up this rich dish. You can also experiment with a dusting of paprika or a few fresh chives for an extra flavor twist and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a wide range of mains. Think juicy roasted chicken, tender brisket, or even a hearty vegetarian casserole. For a complete meal, adding a crisp green salad or steamed veggies will balance out the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the classic baking dish and try making individual portions in ramekins for an elegant presentation. You could also bake this as a layered casserole alongside caramelized onions or a crispy breadcrumb topping for a delightful textural contrast that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooling the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe, cover them tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the leftovers just as delightful as the first serving.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. To freeze, bake it up to the point before the final 20-25 minutes of uncovered baking, then cool and cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, just add extra baking time covered first, then uncover for the last golden crisp finish.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until warmed through. To maintain that perfectly creamy texture, avoid microwaving when possible, but if time is short, microwave in short bursts stirring in between works too.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are preferred because their starchy texture breaks down nicely and absorbs the cheese sauce well, but you can use Yukon golds for a slightly creamier, buttery taste. Just be aware that the texture might be a bit different.
Is this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe gluten-free?
This classic recipe uses all-purpose flour for the sauce, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to keep this dish gluten-free without sacrificing creaminess.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative and use plant-based milk paired with vegan cheese shreds. The texture will be a little different, but still absolutely delicious and cheesy.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
About 1/8-inch thick slices are ideal. Thin slices cook evenly but still hold some structure, ensuring the scalloped layers remain tender yet recognizable.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients?
Definitely! For a little extra flair, try adding cooked bacon bits, caramelized onions, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the layers. A pinch of nutmeg or cayenne in the sauce also adds depth and warmth without overwhelming the cheesy goodness.
Final Thoughts
If comfort food had a champion, the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe would be it. Its combination of creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and melty cheese is irresistibly satisfying. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this dish is sure to earn a special spot at your table—and in your heart. So grab your potatoes and cheese, and dive into making a classic that feels like a warm, cheesy hug in every bite.
Print
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic and creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes made with thinly sliced russet potatoes layered in a rich cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection. This comforting American side dish is perfect for holidays or family dinners, featuring a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses with subtle hints of garlic and onion.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Gradually add whole milk to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Layer Potatoes and Sauce: Spread half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Repeat layering with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Rest and Serve: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes to thicken before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for added freshness and color.
Notes
- For extra richness and creaminess, substitute half-and-half for the milk.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a warming depth of flavor.
