If you love warm, creamy comfort food, this Cheesey Scalloped Potato Recipe is one you need to try. Thin slices of tender potatoes bake in a rich, cheesy sauce and turn soft and cozy. The top gets golden and bubbly, and the kitchen smells buttery and inviting. This is one of those Potato Recipes that feels simple but tastes special. It works for busy weeknights or holiday dinners. This is the kind of recipe you will want to save and pin for later.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 half teaspoon paprika
- Cooking spray or extra butter for greasing
Step By Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds. Try to keep them the same thickness so they cook evenly.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This helps remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the milk and cream while whisking. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Add salt, pepper, paprika, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the top.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and makes slicing easier.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Slicing potatoes too thick: Thick slices take longer to cook and may stay firm in the center. Thin slices cook evenly and become tender.
Skipping the resting time: If you cut into the dish right away, the sauce may run. Letting it rest makes it creamy and easy to serve.
Not seasoning enough: Potatoes need salt. Taste your sauce before layering so the flavor is balanced.
Tips For Success
Use starchy potatoes like russet for the best creamy texture. They soak up the sauce well.
If you want extra flavor, add a pinch of onion powder or a small handful of grated parmesan.
For even cooking, arrange the potato slices in neat layers. This simple step makes a big difference.
This recipe pairs well with many main dishes. It is perfect next to a hearty pulled lamb dinner or a flavorful Greek butterflied lamb leg.
How To Serve
Serve this Cheesey Scalloped Potato Recipe warm from the oven. The top should be lightly golden and the edges should bubble.
It makes a great side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken. You can also serve it with a simple green salad for balance.
If you enjoy bold flavors, try pairing it with this easy one pot Cajun sausage pasta for a comforting meal.
Cheesey Scalloped Potato Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds so they cook evenly.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the milk and cream while whisking. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Add salt, pepper, paprika, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish and pour half of the cheese sauce over the top.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce sets and slices cleanly.
Notes
Flavor Add In Ideas
Cooked bacon bits add a smoky taste and a little crunch.
Sliced onions or caramelized onions add gentle sweetness.
Fresh thyme or chopped parsley adds a bright finish.
For a full comfort meal, you can also serve it beside creamy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage or this easy corned beef recipe with Italian sausage.
Make Ahead And Storage
You can prep the dish a day ahead. Assemble everything, cover tightly, and store in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve. You may need about 10 extra minutes of baking time.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
If you love classic comfort Potato Recipes, you may also enjoy this easy Cajun sausage with scalloped potatoes for another cozy dinner idea.
FAQs
Why are my scalloped potatoes still hard?
This often happens if the slices are too thick or the oven temperature runs low. Slice the potatoes thin and bake until fork tender.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Colby melt well. Choose cheeses that melt smoothly for the creamiest result.
Can I make this recipe without cream?
Yes. Use all milk instead of cream, but the sauce will be less rich. For extra creamy Potato Recipes, a little cream helps a lot.
Conclusion
This Cheesey Scalloped Potato Recipe is creamy, warm, and full of comfort. The tender layers and melted cheese make it hard to resist. It is easy enough for a weeknight and special enough for guests. Save it, make it, and share it on Pinterest so you can find it fast the next time you need a cozy side dish.
MidJourney prompts
Featured image
Cheesey Scalloped Potato Recipe in a white baking dish with golden bubbly cheese crust, creamy layers visible, steam rising, Ama’s cozy coastal kitchen style, very light brown marble background, soft morning lighting, DSLR, 85mm lens, tight close-up –ar 1:1 –stylize 250 –style raw
Close up overview image
Close up of Cheesey Scalloped Potato Recipe slice being lifted with a spatula, gooey melted cheese stretching, tender potato layers, glossy creamy sauce, Ama’s cozy coastal kitchen style, very light brown marble background, soft morning lighting, DSLR, 85mm lens, tight close-up –ar 4:5 –stylize 250 –style raw
Serving section
Cheesey Scalloped Potato Recipe served on a simple white plate with golden cheesy top and fresh parsley sprinkle, creamy texture and crispy edges, Ama’s cozy coastal kitchen style, very light brown marble background, soft morning lighting, DSLR, 85mm lens, tight close-up –ar 4:5 –stylize 250 –style raw