There are few dishes that feel as comforting and indulgent as a pan of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes bubbling away in the oven. Thinly sliced potatoes layered in a creamy sauce, baked until tender, and finished with a golden, cheesy top it’s the kind of dish that instantly makes a meal feel special. Whether it’s a holiday dinner, Sunday supper, or a cozy weeknight meal, these potatoes always steal the spotlight.
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are classic for a reason. They’re rich without being overwhelming, simple to make, and loved by just about everyone at the table. Each forkful delivers soft potatoes, velvety sauce, and just the right amount of melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest.
Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
This dish is a true crowd-pleaser and works for everything from casual dinners to special occasions.
You’ll love this recipe because:
- It’s creamy, cheesy, and deeply comforting
- Made with simple, everyday ingredients
- Perfect for holidays and family gatherings
- Pairs well with almost any main dish
- Can be made ahead of time
- Always gets rave reviews
Once you serve these potatoes, they quickly become a must-make favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things classic, letting the potatoes and cheese shine.
- 2½–3 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet), thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups milk (whole milk works best)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: paprika or thyme
Using starchy potatoes helps create that soft, tender texture everyone loves.
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
1. Prepare the potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes if desired. Slice them thinly, about â…›-inch thick, for even cooking. A mandoline works well, but a sharp knife is fine too.
2. Make the sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and cook until soft and fragrant. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for about a minute to form a roux.
3. Add milk and cream
Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly until smooth. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly.
4. Add the cheese
Stir in most of the shredded cheese, reserving a little for the top. Season with salt and pepper. The sauce should be creamy and well-seasoned.
5. Assemble the dish
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.
6. Bake until tender
Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
7. Finish uncovered
Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
8. Rest and serve
Let the potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
These potatoes pair beautifully with a wide variety of main dishes. Serve them with:
- Roast chicken or turkey
- Ham or pork chops
- Steak or beef roast
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Green vegetables like broccoli or green beans
They work just as well for holiday dinners as they do for comforting weeknight meals.
Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes
- Slice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate
- Season every layer for balanced flavor
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smooth melting
- Don’t rush the bake time — tenderness matters
- Let them rest before serving for cleaner slices
- Cover first, uncover later for creamy centers and golden tops
These small details make a big difference.
Easy Variations to Try
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are easy to customize.
Extra Cheesy
Add an additional cup of cheese or mix different cheeses together.
Garlic Lover’s Version
Increase the garlic or add roasted garlic to the sauce.
Herb Scalloped Potatoes
Add thyme, rosemary, or parsley for extra flavor.
Bacon Cheesy Potatoes
Layer in cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky twist.
Lighter Version
Use all milk instead of cream and slightly less cheese.
Each variation keeps the dish comforting while adding something new.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This dish is great for planning ahead.
- Make ahead: assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate
- Refrigerator: store leftovers up to 4 days
- Reheat: warm in the oven or microwave
- Freezer: not recommended texture can change
If reheating, cover with foil to keep the potatoes from drying out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Slicing potatoes too thick
- Using pre-shredded cheese only
- Skipping seasoning
- Baking uncovered the entire time
- Serving immediately without resting
Avoid these, and your potatoes will turn out perfectly every time.
Why This Dish Is Always a Hit
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are loved because they’re familiar, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. They take humble ingredients and turn them into something rich and special. Whether it’s a holiday table or a simple family dinner, this dish brings warmth and comfort to every bite.
It’s also one of those sides people remember and ask for again.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the definition of classic comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and baked until golden, they’re perfect for holidays, gatherings, or anytime you want a cozy side dish that feels a little extra special. With tender potatoes and a rich sauce, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite — and once you make it, it’s sure to become a regular on your table. 🧀🥔✨