Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes (Creamy, Comforting & Oven-Baked Perfection)

 


How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.


Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin rounds about 1/8 inch thick.

Set them aside while you prepare the cream sauce.


Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat:

  1. Melt the butter.

  2. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

  3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about 1 minute to create a roux.

Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.

Cook for 3–5 minutes, until the sauce begins to thicken.

Stir in:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • salt

  • black pepper

  • paprika

Mix until smooth and creamy.


Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Arrange half of the potato slices evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.

Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.


Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top.


Step 6: Bake the Potatoes

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for 15–25 minutes more, until:

  • the potatoes are tender

  • the top is golden

  • the cheese is bubbly


Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving.

This allows the sauce to thicken and coat the potatoes beautifully.


What to Serve with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

These potatoes pair wonderfully with:

  • Roast chicken

  • Baked ham

  • Grilled steak

  • Meatloaf

  • Roasted vegetables

  • Fresh green salad

They’re especially popular at holiday dinners and Sunday family meals.


Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes

  • Slice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.

  • Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly thin slices.

  • Cover during the first bake to prevent over-browning.

  • Let the dish rest before serving so the sauce sets.


Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Freezer

You can freeze baked scalloped potatoes for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through.


General Information

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 60 minutes

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

  • Servings: 6–8

  • Difficulty: Easy


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes?

Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes work best because they become tender and creamy when baked.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.

Why are my potatoes still firm?

They may have been sliced too thick or needed additional baking time.

Can I add meat?

Absolutely! Ham or bacon makes a delicious addition.


Conclusion

These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort side dish—creamy, rich, and perfectly golden on top. They’re simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for holidays and gatherings.

Once you make them, they’ll quickly become a family favorite that everyone requests again and again.

If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy:

  • Amish Cabbage Noodles

  • Slow Cooker Slumgullion

  • Crockpot Sausage and Potatoes


Share Your Results

Tried this recipe? I’d love to see it!

Leave a review in the comments and share your photos on Pinterest so others can enjoy your delicious creation.


Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

  • Calories: 340

  • Carbohydrates: 32g

  • Protein: 12g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sodium: 420mg

Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite of these homemade scalloped potatoes! 🥔🧀