Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

This easy cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe is perfect when you want a comforting side dish that feels special without requiring complicated steps. Creamy layers of tender potatoes baked with melted cheddar and parmesan cheese make this a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or holiday gatherings.

I first made these scalloped potatoes when hosting a small dinner party and was thrilled by how many compliments I received. Now they often show up at our family meals when I want something cozy and satisfying.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Two cups freshly grated cheddar cheese: provides sharp, melty flavor freshly grated ensures better melting without additives
• One cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: adds a nutty, salty complexity choose aged parmesan for deeper taste
• Three pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes: Russets give a fluffier texture while Yukon Gold hold shape better peel for smooth layers
• One tablespoon butter: used for sautéing garlic to infuse flavor into the sauce
• Three cloves garlic minced: adds aromatic depth fresh garlic is key so it does not overpower
• Two cups heavy or whipping cream: makes the sauce rich and creamy heavy cream yields the best texture
• One teaspoon salt: balances the flavors in the cream sauce
• Pepper to taste: freshly ground preferred for brightness

How to Make It

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and position the rack in the middle to ensure even baking throughout.

Prepare the Potatoes and Cheese:

Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly to about 1/8 inch thickness using a mandoline slicer if available for uniform cooking. Grate both the cheddar and parmesan cheeses freshly to avoid processed textures.

Make the Cream Sauce:

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium high heat until fully melted. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to release the aroma without browning. Pour in the heavy cream along with salt and some freshly ground pepper. Stir occasionally and let it warm until just boiling then remove from heat to prevent curdling.

Layer the Ingredients:

Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish lightly. Start by arranging half of the potato slices on the bottom, overlapping slightly but no need for perfect order. Pour half of the warmed cream mixture evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle half of each cheese over the cream. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, cream, and cheeses, finishing with cheese on top to form a golden crust.

Bake Covered and Uncovered:

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes before removing the foil. Continue baking uncovered for an additional 25 to 35 minutes until the potatoes are tender and a toothpick slides in easily. Watch closely towards the end since oven temperatures can vary.

This dish is a family favorite, especially because the combination of sharp cheddar and nutty parmesan creates layers of flavor that never fail to satisfy. The first time I served this at a holiday dinner, my aunt asked for the recipe immediately because it reminded her of the scalloped potatoes her mother used to make.

Flavor Boosters

Serve as a side alongside roasted chicken, ham, or a simple green salad to balance richness. A squeeze of lemon or fresh herbs on top brightens the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a side alongside roasted chicken, ham, or a simple green salad to balance richness. A squeeze of lemon or fresh herbs on top brightens the dish.

Creative Twists

Add thin slices of cooked sweet potato or butternut squash for a fall twist. Toss in fresh thyme or rosemary in the cream sauce during colder months to add warmth.

This recipe is a comforting favorite that is straightforward enough for any home cook yet yields a deliciously indulgent result every time.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their texture, which holds up well when cooked and slices easily for layering.

→ Can I use different cheeses for this dish?

While cheddar and parmesan are classic choices for depth and sharpness, you can experiment with other cheeses that melt well, like gruyere or mozzarella.

→ How do I ensure the potatoes cook evenly?

Slice potatoes thinly and uniformly, about 1/8 inch thick, and layer them evenly in the baking dish to promote even cooking throughout.

→ Is it necessary to cover the dish during baking?

Covering helps steam and soften the potatoes initially, then uncovering allows the top to brown and develop a crispy cheese crust.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add extra baking time if starting from cold.