If you’re craving a comforting, soul-soothing dish that combines tender potatoes with a rich, gooey cheese sauce, you’ve got to try this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of creamy, savory, and slightly golden deliciousness baked to perfection. Whether it’s a holiday feast, Sunday dinner, or just a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe never fails to impress with its layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a luscious cheddar and Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet incredibly important to achieve that classic creamy texture and rich flavor. Each element adds its own magic to the dish, building layers of taste, color, and that unbeatable cheesy goodness.
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced: The heart of this dish, chosen for their starchy texture that becomes perfectly tender while holding their shape.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics to enhance flavor depth.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings a gentle sweetness and savoriness when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a subtle kick that elevates the cream sauce.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Essential for that luxuriously smooth, silky sauce.
- 2 cups whole milk: Lightens the cream just enough while keeping everything luscious.
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides the classic sharp, bold cheesy punch.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, umami richness that complements the cheddar beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a warm, subtle heat for balance.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional): Gives a hint of smokiness and color to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional): Introduces an earthy herbal note that pairs wonderfully with potatoes.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and flavor at serving.
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray ensures those beautifully layered potatoes won’t stick, making serving a breeze later on.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics to Build Flavor
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them gently for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step creates a delicious flavor base for your sauce, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Pour in your heavy cream and whole milk, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme if you’re using it. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth and prevent scorching. Once it’s hot and combined, gradually add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and the sauce is perfectly silky.
Step 4: Assemble the Potato Layers
Carefully layer your thin potato slices in the baking dish, slightly overlapping them to cover the bottom completely. Pour a portion of your luscious cheese sauce over the potatoes and spread it evenly. Continue to layer potatoes and sauce, finishing with the last generous layer of cheese sauce on top. This layering is what makes the dish so irresistibly creamy and flavorful in every bite.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to soften and absorb the flavors. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes. This final uncovered baking step creates a beautifully golden, bubbling top that’s simply irresistible.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the layers set slightly, making it easier to serve. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top if you want a fresh, colorful touch to brighten every serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks. Its bright, slightly peppery freshness counters the rich creaminess perfectly. For a little extra flair, consider a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a light dusting of smoked paprika, adding both color and a nuanced smoky zing that elevates every forkful.
Side Dishes
This dish is substantial enough to be a showstopper on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple proteins like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham. Fresh green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a crisp garden salad bring balance and a lively crunch next to the creamy potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, serve the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe right in the baking dish for a rustic, comforting appeal. Want to impress? Use individual ramekins to create personal scalloped potato casseroles, perfect for elegant dinners. You can also try layering in a baking dish with additional mix-ins like cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), cover the scalloped potatoes tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next day just as delicious as freshly baked.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. To freeze, wrap the cooled dish well with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months, offering you a ready-made comfort meal anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator if possible. Then, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil to keep it moist, about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. For refrigerated leftovers, a microwave or oven works fine, but the oven will help maintain the crispy, golden top.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Russet potatoes work best because of their starchy texture that yields tender, fluffy slices while maintaining structure. You can try Yukon Golds for a creamier, buttery flavor but avoid waxy potatoes as they can become too soft and mushy.
What if I don’t have heavy cream? Can I substitute?
Whole milk alone won’t provide the same richness, but you can use half-and-half or mix milk with a tablespoon of butter for a creamier texture. Keep in mind that heavy cream gives best results for that indulgently creamy sauce.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that your cheeses and seasonings don’t contain any hidden gluten additives. Always double-check labels to be safe.
Can I add other cheeses instead of cheddar and Parmesan?
Feel free! Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack can all add unique flavors and textures. Just keep the total cheese quantity consistent to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
A thin, even slice about 1/8 inch thick ensures the potatoes cook evenly and absorb the cheese sauce beautifully. Use a mandoline slicer if you have one for perfect, consistent slices that yield the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is a tried-and-true classic that never fails to bring comfort and tenderness to the table. With simple ingredients transforming into layers of creamy, cheesy goodness, it’s a dish you’ll want to keep making over and over. Trust me, once you take that first rich, melty bite, you’ll be hooked!
Print
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features thinly sliced russet potatoes layered and baked in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and Parmesan. Flavored with sautéed onions, garlic, and subtle herbs, this comforting side dish is perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Create cheese sauce base: Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, then add salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Stir to combine the ingredients and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally until hot and well mixed.
- Add cheeses: Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese into the simmering cream mixture. Stir constantly until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Layer potatoes and sauce: Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping the slices. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Repeat layering the potatoes and cheese sauce, finishing with a final layer of cheese sauce on top.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through.
- Bake uncovered to brown: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from oven and let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin potato slices to ensure even cooking.
- Russet potatoes are recommended for their starchy texture which holds well in scalloped dishes.
- For a sharper flavor, increase the amount of cheddar cheese slightly.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Make sure to cover the dish initially during baking to prevent the sauce from drying out.
- Potatoes can be par-cooked or blanched beforehand to reduce baking time if desired.
