Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious. This classic dish features thinly sliced potatoes layered with a rich, velvety cheese sauce, then baked to golden perfection. Whether served as a holiday side dish, Sunday dinner favorite, or weeknight indulgence, these scalloped potatoes will steal the spotlight on any table.

This easy homemade version beats any boxed mix and uses simple ingredients to create a decadent, creamy, and cheesy side dish that pairs well with ham, steak, chicken, or even a hearty salad

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp butter, for greasing the baking dish
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional, enhances the cheesy flavor)
• ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Topping:

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 2 tbsp butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

3. Peel the potatoes and slice them into ⅛-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer for even cooking.
4. Season the sliced potatoes with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a large bowl.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

5. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tbsp butter.
6. Add 4 tbsp flour, whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
7. Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
8. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
9. Continue stirring until the sauce is thick, creamy, and cheese is fully melted (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes & Cheese Sauce

10. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the baking dish.
11. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
12. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

13. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
14. Remove foil, sprinkle the cheese topping mixture (cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan) evenly over the top.
15. Bake uncovered for 20-25 more minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Step 6: Let It Rest & Serve

16. Remove from oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken and makes slicing easier.
17. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and serve warm.

(Tip: For extra crispy edges, broil the potatoes for 2-3 minutes at the end.)

Tips & Variations

✔ Extra Creamy: Swap milk for half-and-half for a richer sauce.
✔ Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
✔ Meaty Upgrade: Layer in crispy bacon, ham, or cooked ground sausage for a hearty twist.
✔ Gluten-Free Option: Replace flour with cornstarch (2 tbsp mixed with ¼ cup cold milk).
✔ Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve!

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

• Assemble and freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Reheating:

• Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! Try Gruyère, smoked Gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.

2. Why are my scalloped potatoes watery?

This happens if the potatoes release too much moisture. Using starchy potatoes (like Russet) helps thicken the sauce.

3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Layer everything in a crockpot and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.

4. How do I make it extra crispy?

Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking for a crispy, golden cheese crust.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Easy & Delicious – Simple ingredients with big, bold flavors.
✔ Cheesy & Creamy – Every bite is rich, cheesy, and indulgent.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holidays, family dinners, or potlucks.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better!

This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a must-try for potato lovers. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience