Easy Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy, Cheesy, and Totally Irresistible
Few dishes can bring people together like a warm, bubbling pan of cheesy scalloped potatoes. This recipe has been a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals for generations—and for good reason!
The creamy texture, golden cheesy topping, and rich layers of thinly sliced potatoes are the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. If you’re searching for a dish that’s simple yet impressive, this recipe is sure to deliver.
Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it also offers incredible versatility. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a weeknight dinner or pairing it with a festive roast for special occasions, scalloped potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser.
What Makes These the Best Scalloped Potatoes?
When it comes to scalloped potatoes, not all recipes are created equal. The best recipes feature perfectly cooked, tender slices of potato, coated in a luscious, creamy cheese sauce. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and reliability—no need for complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
We use Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery flavor and ability to hold their shape during baking. Yukon Gold potatoes have higher moisture content than Russet potatoes, giving them a naturally creamier texture which means, of course, creamier tasting potatoes.
The sauce, a blend of sharp cheddar cheese, milk, and a touch of garlic, creates the perfect harmony of flavors. And the secret to the golden crust? A final sprinkle of cheese, baked to perfection in the oven.
Tips for Perfect Easy Scalloped Potatoes
Even a simple recipe like this one can be elevated with a few helpful tips. Here’s how to ensure your scalloped potatoes turn out perfect every time:
- Slice Potatoes Evenly: Uniform slices are key to even cooking. Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to achieve consistent thickness—aim for about 1/8 inch.
- Choose the Right Cheese: Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to mix in Gruyère or Parmesan for added depth of flavor.
- Layer Thoughtfully: Alternate layers of potatoes and cheese sauce evenly for balanced flavors in every bite.
- Cover, Then Uncover: Bake covered for the first half of the cooking time to ensure the potatoes cook through. Then uncover to achieve a bubbly, golden top layer.
- Let It Rest: After removing the dish from the oven, let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken and the layers set, making serving easier.
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: A Versatile Side Dish
One of the best things about scalloped potatoes is their versatility. They pair beautifully with a wide variety of main courses, making them a fantastic side dish for any occasion. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Holiday Feasts: Serve alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or prime rib for a holiday-worthy spread.
- Casual Comfort: Pair with grilled chicken, meatloaf, or a simple green salad for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
- Vegetarian Meals: Add a side of roasted vegetables or a hearty lentil loaf for a vegetarian-friendly meal.
No matter how you serve them, these Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are sure to be a hit at your table.
Recipe Variations to Try
This recipe is delicious as written, but it’s also a fantastic starting point for experimenting with flavors and ingredients. Here are some variations to inspire you:
- Bacon and Cheese Scalloped Potatoes: Add cooked, crumbled bacon between the layers for a smoky, savory twist.
- Herbed Scalloped Potatoes: Sprinkle fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the cheese sauce for an herby flavor boost.
- Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Top with sour cream, green onions, and crumbled bacon after baking for a loaded potato experience.
- Spicy Scalloped Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your perfect version of this classic dish!
Storing and Reheating Scalloped Potatoes
Leftover scalloped potatoes are just as delicious—if not better—the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat them for best results:
- Storage: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave.
- Freezing: Scalloped potatoes can be frozen, though the texture may change slightly. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cheesy Easy Scalloped Potatoes
8
servings20
minutes1
hourThese Easy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food! Tender layers of buttery Yukon Gold potatoes are smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce and baked to golden, bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
6 large Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
4 Tbsp unsalted butter
5 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1 c vegetable broth
2 d whole milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
2 c shredded sharp cheddar cheese
salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking continuously to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until light golden.
- Gradually pour in the vegetable broth and milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add the fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Do not let it boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the sliced onions.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and onions, spreading it evenly.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.
- Continue baking, uncovered, for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for 15 minutes before serving to let the sauce set.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Notes
- For uniform potato slices, consider using a mandoline slicer.
- Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, but Russet potatoes can be used as an alternative.
- To add a subtle heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe for Easy Scalloped Potatoes
This recipe checks all the boxes: it’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and produces rich, creamy, and cheesy results. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a holiday gathering, these scalloped potatoes are bound to become a go-to favorite.
With a little prep and a short time in the oven, you’ll have a side dish that’s equal parts comforting and impressive. So go ahead, give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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