If you have ever dreamed of a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth side dish that feels like a warm hug, this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe will quickly become your go-to. Imagine tender, golden Yukon Gold potatoes layered with a luscious, creamy cheese sauce that’s seasoned just right with thyme, garlic, and a hint of onion—each bite is pure bliss. This recipe is the perfect harmony of rich flavors and velvety textures that not only satisfies your appetite but also looks absolutely stunning on any dinner table. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this dish delivers an unforgettable, cheesy experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe comes together with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch in both flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role—from the creamy sauce to the perfectly sliced potatoes and the melty cheese toppings—all working together to create a harmonious dish.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness that forms the base of our creamy sauce while helping to cook the onions.
- Small yellow onion (1, thinly sliced): Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce once softened.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth without overpowering the flavors.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Essential for making the roux that thickens our sauce beautifully.
- Whole milk (1 ½ cups): Adds creamy body and balances richness from the cream and cheese.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Delivers luxuriously smooth texture and richness to the sauce.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances every flavor and brings harmony to the dish.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a mild kick to cut through the creaminess.
- Dried thyme (½ teaspoon): Gives a gentle herbal note that compliments the potatoes perfectly.
- Yukon Gold potatoes (2 pounds, peeled and thinly sliced): Their buttery texture and golden color make these ideal for layering and baking.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups): Provides the gooey, cheesy goodness that defines this recipe.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Offers a nutty, salty finish that browns to perfection on top.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant note and a pop of color when garnished.
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). While it warms up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or nonstick spray. This ensures your cheesy scalloped potatoes don’t stick and makes cleanup simpler later on.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to shimmer. Add the thinly sliced yellow onion and let it cook gently until it becomes soft and translucent—about 5 minutes. This step is key because soft onions lend sweetness and depth without any bite. Then, stir in your minced garlic and cook it for an additional minute, releasing that irresistible aroma.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Roux
Next, sprinkle the flour into your saucepan, whisking constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. This forms the roux, which is the thickening agent that will transform your sauce into a luscious coating. Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, taking your time to keep it smooth without lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until it thickens slightly—around 3 to 4 minutes. Finally, stir in the salt, black pepper, and dried thyme, then remove the sauce from the heat.
Step 4: Layer the Potatoes and Cheese
Now the fun begins! Arrange half of your thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes in the prepared baking dish, letting the slices overlap slightly to create a beautiful layered base. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potatoes, making sure to spread it evenly. Then sprinkle half of the sharp cheddar cheese across the top. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheddar, ensuring every layer is richly flavored. Finish by sprinkling the Parmesan cheese evenly over the surface—the cheese that will form a golden, savory crust during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover your dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook through and soak up all that creamy goodness. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20 to 25 minutes. This step browns the top and creates that irresistible golden crust. When done, a fork should easily pierce through the potatoes. Let your scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving to thicken up and cool slightly.
How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds just the right zing of color and a subtle freshness that elevates the creamy richness. It’s a simple touch that makes a big difference in presentation and flavor contrast when you serve this delightful dish.
Side Dishes
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a show-stopping side that pairs beautifully with roasted meats like juicy turkey or a savory roast beef. For a vegetarian meal, pair this delicious dish with a crisp green salad or sautéed seasonal vegetables to bring some brightness and texture balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe to the next level by baking individual portions in ramekins for a charming personal touch. Alternatively, topping it off with crispy breadcrumbs or mixing in caramelized onions can add an exciting new texture twist that impresses every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier second helping.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully. Prepare it completely but only bake until just tender before freezing. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding time until hot and bubbly.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven covered with foil to prevent drying out, about 20-25 minutes. For a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for scalloped potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and buttery taste, Russets or red potatoes can also work well, though they may alter the final texture slightly.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce without compromising flavor or creaminess.
Can I add other cheeses besides cheddar and Parmesan?
Definitely! Gruyère is a popular addition for extra richness, or mozzarella if you prefer a milder, gooier texture. Feel free to experiment depending on your taste.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
If your sauce turns out too thick, gently whisk in a splash of milk until you reach the desired consistency. If too thin, continue to simmer it gently to reduce and thicken before layering.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
Thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick, are perfect because they cook evenly and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully, resulting in a tender yet structured dish.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe enough if you’re craving comfort food that feels both special and approachable. The creamy texture, the melted cheese layers, and the lightly herbed sauce come together in such an inviting way that you’ll find yourself making it again and again. So grab your potatoes and get ready to create a cozy, cheesy classic that’s sure to become a beloved favorite for family dinners or holiday feasts alike.
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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a classic American side dish featuring tender Yukon Gold potatoes baked in a creamy, flavorful cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and Parmesan. This comforting casserole is perfect for holidays or family dinners, layering thinly sliced potatoes with a rich cream sauce infused with sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs, then baked until golden and bubbly.
Ingredients
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Potatoes & Cheese
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release fragrance.
- Make Roux and Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic. Whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken your sauce. Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme, then remove from heat.
- Layer Potatoes: Arrange half of the thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping the slices.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour half of the cream sauce evenly over the potato layer. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top to add flavor and creaminess.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, cream sauce, and cheddar cheese. Finally, scatter the grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer to create a golden crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. This allows the potatoes to cook thoroughly in the creamy sauce.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow it to set. If desired, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh herbal touch before serving.
Notes
- For extra richness and a nutty flavor, substitute some of the cheddar cheese with Gruyère cheese.
- This casserole can be prepared a day in advance; assemble, cover, and refrigerate, then bake fresh when ready to serve.
