Are you tired of bland, uninspiring side dishes that fail to complement your main course? I know the feeling all too well. Cheesy Easy Side Scalloped Potatoes are about to become your new go-to comfort food that transforms any meal into a special occasion. These velvety, golden potatoes bathed in creamy sauce and topped with perfectly melted cheese will have everyone at your table asking for seconds!
Hi, I’m Michael, the heart behind FoodyDish! As someone who’s tested countless potato recipes in my kitchen, I’ve perfected these scalloped potatoes to deliver maximum flavor with minimum effort. I believe food should bring people together, and there’s something magical about watching faces light up when this bubbling dish hits the table.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through selecting the right potatoes, share my secret ingredient for extra creaminess, and provide foolproof instructions even beginners can follow. Plus, I’ll answer common questions and share serving suggestions to make your meal complete.
Why This Cheesy Easy Side Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Works
- Uses everyday pantry ingredients you likely already have on hand
- Comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time
- Creates the perfect balance of creamy sauce and tender potatoes
- Works as both a weeknight side dish or holiday table centerpiece
- Reheats beautifully for meal prep and leftovers
Choosing the Right Potatoes for Scalloped Potatoes
Best Potato Varieties for Scalloped Potatoes
Russet potatoes are my go-to choice for scalloped potatoes because their high starch content helps thicken the sauce naturally. Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent alternative, offering a naturally buttery flavor and maintaining their shape while becoming perfectly tender.
Buying Tips for Scalloped Potato Success
Look for firm potatoes with smooth skin and no green discoloration. Medium-sized potatoes work best as they’ll cook evenly and are easier to slice uniformly. Buy potatoes of similar size for consistent cooking.
Substitutions for Your Scalloped Potatoes
If you’re out of traditional potatoes, sweet potatoes can create a delicious variation with a hint of natural sweetness. For a lower-carb option, try using half potatoes and half sliced turnips or cauliflower florets.
Ingredients & Prep for Cheesy Easy Side Scalloped Potatoes
Potato Prep Essentials
Thoroughly wash and peel your potatoes (though leaving some skin on adds texture and nutrition). Use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to cut uniform 1/8-inch slices – consistency is key for even cooking.
Creamy Sauce Components
- 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional but recommended)
Pantry Staples
Keep butter, all-purpose flour, and chicken or vegetable broth on hand to enhance your sauce. A dash of paprika adds color and subtle warmth to the finished dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Scalloped Potatoes
Pre-Cooking Prep for Scalloped Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Butter a 9×13 baking dish generously
- Slice potatoes to uniform thickness (about 1/8 inch)
- Pat potato slices dry with paper towels to remove excess starch
Cooking Method for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes
- In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds)
- Whisk in 3 tablespoons flour and cook for 1 minute
- Gradually add cream while whisking constantly
- Bring to a gentle simmer until slightly thickened
- Stir in 3/4 of the cheese, reserving some for topping
- Layer half the potatoes in prepared dish, pour half the sauce over
- Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce
- Sprinkle reserved cheese on top
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes
- Remove foil and bake for additional 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly
Doneness Check for Scalloped Potatoes
Insert a knife into the center – it should slide easily through the potatoes with no resistance. The top should be golden brown and the sauce bubbling around the edges. If the top browns too quickly before potatoes are tender, cover loosely with foil.
Resting Your Scalloped Potatoes
Let the finished dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld perfectly. The dish will maintain its heat during this resting period.
Pro Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes
Avoiding Common Scalloped Potato Problems
- Slice potatoes to uniform thickness for even cooking
- Don’t rinse sliced potatoes – their natural starch helps thicken the sauce
- For extra insurance against curdling, temper your dairy by warming it slightly before adding
- Salt your layers as you build – don’t just season the top
Tool Recommendations for Scalloped Potatoes
A mandoline slicer is worth the investment for perfectly even potato slices. A heavy-bottom saucepan prevents scorching your cream sauce. Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for more even heat distribution and beautiful presentation.
Storage & Reheating Scalloped Potatoes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through (about 20 minutes). Add a splash of cream if the sauce seems too thick after refrigeration.
Looking for more delicious recipes? Check out my Pinterest collection where I share all my latest culinary inspirations!
Flavor Variations for Scalloped Potatoes
Spicy Scalloped Potato Twist
Add a diced jalapeño or 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to your sauce for a gentle heat that complements the creamy texture. For even more kick, mix in chopped green chiles or a dash of hot sauce.
Herb-Forward Scalloped Potatoes
Create an aromatic experience by incorporating fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or a classic herb blend. Layer in chopped fresh herbs between potato layers for bursts of flavor throughout the dish.
Global Flavor Scalloped Potatoes
| Flavor Profile | Key Ingredients | Cheese Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| French | Gruyère, white wine, thyme | Gruyère and Emmental |
| Italian | Sun-dried tomatoes, basil, garlic | Fontina and Parmesan |
| Greek | Oregano, lemon zest, olives | Feta and Kasseri |
| Mexican | Cumin, cilantro, green chilies | Queso fresco and Monterey Jack |
Serving Suggestions for Scalloped Potatoes
Pair these creamy scalloped potatoes with a simple roasted chicken or grilled steak for a complete meal. The rich sauce complements lean proteins beautifully. For vegetable sides, consider steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness.
For a sophisticated touch, serve alongside a glass of unoaked Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir. The acidity in these beverages cuts through the creaminess of the dish perfectly.
FAQs About Scalloped Potatoes
Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dish up to 24 hours ahead, cover and refrigerate unbaked. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the refrigerator.
What’s the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes?
Traditionally, scalloped potatoes are made with a cream sauce while au gratin potatoes include cheese in the sauce and breadcrumbs on top. However, many modern recipes (like this one) blur these lines.
How do I fix watery scalloped potatoes?
If your sauce seems too thin after baking, let the dish rest longer before serving. If still watery, next time try using a bit more flour in your sauce or avoid very waxy potato varieties.
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
While possible, cream-based dishes can separate when frozen and thawed. If you must freeze, do so before baking, thaw completely in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Easy Side Scalloped Potatoes are more than just a side dish they’re the comfort food that turns ordinary meals into memorable gatherings. The combination of tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and golden cheese creates a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Whether you’re serving them alongside a holiday roast or brightening up a weeknight dinner, these scalloped potatoes deliver restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try tonight and watch as your family falls in love with this classic comfort food all over again!
Don’t forget to tag @foodydish in your social media posts when you make this recipe I love seeing your kitchen successes!
Print
Cheesy Easy Side Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy Comfort in Minutes!
- Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Easy Side Scalloped Potatoes are a creamy, comforting side dish featuring thinly sliced potatoes layered with a rich cheese sauce perfect for holiday dinners or any cozy family meal.
Ingredients
2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth and thickened.
5. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese until melted into a smooth sauce.
7. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish and pour half of the cheese sauce over them.
8. Repeat with remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
9. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
11. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
12. Let rest 10 minutes before serving, garnished with parsley.
Notes
For extra flavor, mix in a handful of Parmesan cheese.
You can prep this dish a day ahead — just reheat before serving.
Try adding cooked bacon or ham for a heartier version.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes, easy side dish, holiday potatoes