If you crave a comforting, dreamy side dish that never fails to impress, this Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is your new best friend. It’s all about tender, thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a rich garlic-infused cream sauce and generously layered with sharp cheddar and nutty parmesan cheeses. The result is a bubbling, golden-topped casserole that’s irresistibly creamy inside and perfectly crispy on top. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a weeknight treat, these scalloped potatoes bring both warmth and elegance to the table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of these ingredients—they each play a crucial role in building layers of creamy, cheesy goodness and tender texture that make this dish so special.
- 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes: Choose Russets for fluffiness or Yukon Golds for a buttery, creamy finish.
- 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a bold, melty punch that’s essential to the dish’s cheesy flavor.
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Parmesan provides a nutty, savory contrast that deepens the overall taste.
- 2 cups heavy cream: This makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and ensures every potato slice soaks up rich flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic adds aromatic warmth that elevates the cream sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Butter enriches the sauce and helps caramelize the edges of the potatoes for subtle sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the dish perfectly.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This precise temperature ensures the potatoes cook gently in the creamy sauce without drying out. Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and slice them very thinly—about 1/8-inch thick. Using a mandoline will save you time and guarantee perfectly even slices, which is key for even cooking and that classic scalloped texture everyone loves.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic just until fragrant. This step unlocks the garlic’s sweet, mellow flavor. Then, add the heavy cream along with salt and pepper, gently warming the mixture without letting it boil. This careful warming helps the flavors meld and prepares the luscious sauce that will soak into every potato layer.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Cheese
Grease a baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Lay down half of your potato slices in an even layer, then pour over half of the cream sauce. Sprinkle with half the cheddar and parmesan cheese. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, cream sauce, and cheese—this layering is what makes the dish so rich and satisfying.
Step 4: Bake Covered, Then Uncovered
Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap steam, helping the potatoes soften during the initial baking phase. Bake for 40 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 25 to 35 minutes. This second uncovered stage lets the cheese on top bubble up and turn a gorgeous golden brown, creating a delightful, crispy crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy potatoes beneath.
Step 5: Let it Rest
Once baked, give your scalloped potatoes 5 to 10 minutes to cool and set. This resting time allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy those perfect, intact layers. Plus, the aroma alone during this wait will have everyone eagerly anticipating the first forkful.
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of bright color and a fresh, herby note that balances the creaminess. For an extra touch of indulgence, a light dusting of smoked paprika or a few crispy shallots on top can add unexpected layers of flavor and texture.
Side Dishes
This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is a star side that pairs wonderfully with roasted or grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork chops. For a vegetarian spread, serve alongside sautéed greens or a crisp garden salad to cut through the richness and create a harmonious plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, try assembling this dish in individual ramekins for elegant single servings that wow guests. Alternatively, layer it with caramelized onions or cooked bacon between the potatoes for mouthwatering variations. No matter how you present it, the cheesy, saucy layers always steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the scalloped potatoes tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, leftovers stay delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as they rest, making reheated portions just as satisfying as fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months by wrapping it well in foil and then plastic wrap or placing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the creamy texture and prevent separation of cream sauce.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a 350°F oven, covered with foil to avoid drying out, until warmed through—usually about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, microwave portions on medium power to maintain creaminess without scorching. A quick sprinkle of extra cheese before reheating can revive that fresh-baked feeling.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar and parmesan give the best classic flavor, feel free to experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda for unique twists. Just choose cheeses that melt well for the creamiest results.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for the smoothest texture and classic look. However, if you prefer a rustic touch and extra nutrients, leaving the skins on Yukon Gold potatoes can add a lovely earthiness and color contrast.
Can this dish be made dairy-free or vegan?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use vegan cheese blends. The flavor and texture will be slightly different but still deliciously comforting.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
Slicing the potatoes about 1/8-inch thick ensures they cook evenly and absorb the cream sauce perfectly. Thicker slices may take longer to bake and can result in uneven texture.
Is an Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe the same as au gratin potatoes?
They’re very similar but differ slightly. Scalloped potatoes typically have a cream-based sauce without a breadcrumb topping, whereas au gratin often includes breadcrumbs for an extra crispy crust. Both are delicious in their own right!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a warm casserole bubbling with creamy, cheesy potatoes, and this Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe brings that joy to your table with ease. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will ask you to make again. So grab your potatoes and get ready to savor every delicious bite!
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Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a creamy, rich, and comforting side dish made with layers of thinly sliced potatoes, a garlic-infused cream sauce, and a blend of cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Perfect for gatherings or a hearty family meal, it bakes to a golden, bubbly perfection that complements a variety of main dishes.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
Cheeses
- 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Cream Sauce
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking your scalloped potatoes.
- Slice Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin 1/8-inch rounds using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife for even cooking.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and warm the mixture through without allowing it to boil.
- Layer Ingredients: Grease a baking dish and layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes, then sprinkle half of the cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, cream sauce, and cheeses.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook gently and the flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-35 minutes until the potatoes are tender, and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, letting the dish set for easier slicing and richer flavor melding.
Notes
- Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices to ensure even cooking.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though it may reduce creaminess slightly.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic variation.
- For extra richness, sprinkle additional cheese on top before the final baking step.
- Letting the dish rest helps it firm up, making it easier to cut into clean portions.
