Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like home the moment it hits the table. Thin slices of potatoes baked in a rich, creamy sauce with melted cheese on top create a cozy side dish everyone loves. I make this when I want something comforting but simple, especially on busy evenings or family Sundays. It pairs well with almost anything and fills the kitchen with the kind of smell that makes people wander in asking, “Is it ready yet?”

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Casserole Recipe 1

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This casserole is creamy and comforting without being fussy. It uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have. The steps are easy to follow, even if you are new to cooking. It works for weeknights, holidays, and everything in between.

Ingredients You Will Need

Potatoes, thinly sliced, they bake up tender and soak in the creamy sauce.
Butter, adds richness and helps start the sauce.
Flour, thickens the sauce so it clings to every slice.
Milk or cream, makes the casserole creamy and smooth.
Cheddar cheese, gives that classic cheesy scalloped potatoes easy flavor.
Garlic, adds gentle warmth without overpowering.
Salt and pepper, simple seasoning to bring it all together.

Step by Step Instructions

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Casserole Recipe 2

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees and lightly butter a baking dish.
Slice the potatoes thin and even so they cook at the same time.
Melt butter in a saucepan, stir in flour, and cook for one minute.
Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thick and creamy.
Stir in cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic until smooth.
Layer potatoes in the dish and pour sauce over each layer.
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Uncover and bake 15 to 20 minutes more until bubbly and golden.

Helpful Tips and Variations

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Casserole Recipe 3

For extra flavor, add a pinch of paprika or thyme.
This works as one of your favorite potato casserole recipes for holidays.
Use Yukon gold potatoes for the creamiest homemade scalloped potatoes.
Add cooked bacon bits for loaded scalloped potatoes.
This dish fits right in with other potatoes side dishes on the table.

Serving and Storage

Serve this scalloped potato casserole hot and bubbly straight from the oven. It pairs well with roasted meats, chicken, or even a simple salad.

Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Casserole

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Casserole is a cheesy, cozy side dish made with thin-sliced potatoes, rich sauce, and melted cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or anytime you want warm, comforting food fresh from the oven.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 20

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs potatoes thinly sliced
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk or cream
2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Equipment

Baking Dish
Saucepan

Method

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly butter a baking dish.
Slice the potatoes thinly and evenly so they cook uniformly.
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly.
Slowly whisk in milk or cream, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Stir in shredded cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared dish. Pour over half of the cheese sauce. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a creamy texture. Add a pinch of paprika or thyme for extra flavor. You can prepare the dish in advance and bake just before serving. For a heartier version, mix in cooked ham or bacon.

FAQs

What makes this a creamy scalloped potatoes dish?

The creamy texture comes from the homemade cheese sauce that cooks slowly in the oven. Thin potato slices soak it up as they bake. Using milk or cream and real cheese makes a big difference. Avoid rushing the sauce step. Let it thicken gently. This is what gives you that classic creamy bite. Even reheated, it stays smooth and rich.

Can this be made as baked scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole earlier in the day. Cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge. Bake it when you are ready, adding about 10 extra minutes. This makes it great for busy days. It still tastes fresh and comforting. Just let it sit a few minutes before serving.

Is this the best scalloped potatoes recipe for beginners?

I think so because the steps are simple and forgiving. You do not need special tools. If the sauce looks thick, you are on the right track. Even if the potatoes are not perfect, it will still taste wonderful. This is a great place to start if you are learning baked potatoes recipes.

Can I turn this into a full meal?

You can add cooked ham or chicken to make it heartier. Serve it with a fresh vegetable on the side. It also works well next to dishes like spicy hobo casserole, easy Santa Fe chicken, classic Greek lamb chops, or Mexican ground beef casserole with rice.

Final Thoughts from Ama

Some recipes feel like a hug in a bowl, and this is one of them. If the top gets extra golden or the sauce bubbles over a little, that is part of the charm. Cooking does not have to be perfect to be special. Set this on the table, gather your people, and enjoy every creamy bite.