Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

If you’re craving a creamy, cheesy, comforting side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser, this Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to whenever I want something that just feels like a warm hug straight from the oven. The ooey-gooey cheese, the tender potatoes, and the subtle garlic cream sauce all come together so beautifully—you won’t believe how easy it is to make!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe plays an important part. The cheese combo? Smooth melting cheddar with sharp parmesan makes the sauce rich and flavorful. Choosing the right potatoes ensures perfect tenderness and creaminess.

• Cheddar Cheese: Freshly grated is best for that melty, creamy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty depth and a nice crust on top.
• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold work like a charm—Russet for fluffier, Yukon Gold for creamier.
• Butter: Provides richness and helps bloom the garlic flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the cream sauce a subtle kick.
• Heavy/Whipping Cream: The indulgent base that makes everything silky and smooth.
• Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors out.
• Pepper: Adds just the right touch of warmth.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is how easy it is to tweak to your tastes or dietary needs. I love experimenting with it, so don’t be afraid to make it your own!

• Make it Smoky: I once added some smoked paprika and crispy bacon bits, and my family couldn’t stop raving about it.
• Herb Boost: Throw in some fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
• Dairy-Free: Swap the cream and cheeses for plant-based alternatives—just be sure they melt well.
• Extra Veggies: Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for more depth.

How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and position the rack in the middle. I like to get everything ready upfront—grate those cheeses and peel the potatoes. Using a mandoline slicer is a total game-changer here; it gives you those perfectly thin, even potato slices that cook consistently. Just be careful and use a protective glove—mandolines can be sneaky!

Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter, then add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about 30 seconds tops. Then, add the heavy cream along with salt and pepper. Stir it occasionally as it heats, and once it reaches a gentle boil, pull it off the heat. This sauce is what makes everything irresistibly creamy and rich.

Step 3: Layer Everything Up

Grease a 9×13 baking dish, then layer half of your potato slices on the bottom, overlapping them just enough. Pour over half the garlic cream, sprinkle half the cheddar and parmesan cheeses, and then repeat with the second half. Make sure the very top is a generous layer of cheese because that golden, bubbly crust? That’s the best part!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 25-35 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a toothpick and the cheese is golden and bubbly. Since ovens can vary, keep an eye on it after 55 minutes. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing to help it set up nicely.

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a bit of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top right before serving—it adds a bright contrast and a little pop of color that makes the dish feel fresh and inviting. A sprinkle of extra parmesan right at the end also amps up the cheesiness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This is an amazing side for roasted meats like chicken or pork, and pairs beautifully with steamed green beans or a crisp salad. When I bring this Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe to family dinners, I often serve it alongside honey-glazed ham or a juicy steak for a hearty meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve baked this recipe in individual ramekins—it’s a showstopper served as personal portions with a little garnish on top. It’s also fantastic layered in a clear glass dish so guests can admire all the cheesy goodness before digging in!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually cover leftovers tightly with foil or plastic wrap and pop them in the fridge. They keep well for 3-4 days. When I reheat, I find it helpful to add a splash of cream or milk to keep things moist, then warm it gently in the oven or microwave.

Freezing

If I want to prep ahead, I freeze the fully assembled dish before baking. Wrapped tightly in foil and then plastic wrap, it freezes beautifully for up to two months. When ready to bake, I just thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, adding a little extra time if needed.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F covered with foil to keep the cheese from drying out. About 20-25 minutes usually does it. Avoid microwaving unless it’s a last-minute fix—you lose that beautiful texture and creaminess that way.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe turns out every single time—it’s creamy, cheesy, and full of cozy comfort. When I first tried making scalloped potatoes from scratch, I struggled with texture and flavor balance, but this method nailed it for me. Now, it’s a staple in my kitchen, especially when I want to impress without fuss. I hope you give it a try and find yourself loving it as much as my family and I do. Trust me, this one’s a winner worth sharing!

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