Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Name: Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-1/2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced; 3 Tablespoons butter; 1/2 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2-1/2 cups heavy cream; 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated; 1 Tablespoon chives, chopped (optional)

By:

Sarah

Published:

December 18, 2025

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Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the kind of dish that brings everyone together. Picture this: layers of tender potatoes slathered in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection. It’s comforting, indulgent, and always a hit at the dinner table. The best part? You don’t need to be a culinary wizard to whip up this mouthwatering side dish. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can serve up a bowl of cheesy goodness that makes smiles happen.

When my friends ask for a go-to recipe, these Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes always come to mind. They’re great for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or having a cozy dinner with family. Everyone loves that gooey, cheesy flavor paired with soft, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes. Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste, adding herbs or spices to make it your own! Let’s get started on making this creamy delight.

Why This Recipe Works

First off, the creamy texture is just irresistible. Each bite is like a warm hug. The way the potatoes lose their firmness and soak in all that cheesy goodness makes this dish incredibly satisfying. The layers of potatoes create volume and personality, giving you a beautiful presentation that tastes as good as it looks.

Now, let’s talk about flavor. The blend of cheeses and seasoning brings depth that dances on your palate. You’ll appreciate the savory notes and aroma that unfolds while it bakes. It’s simple yet so effective! The techniques used in this recipe are straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels while still ensuring mouthwatering results.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience. Serving Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes as a side dish means you’re offering comfort on a plate. Imagine digging in and finding those creamy layers topped with melty cheese. It’s a universal favorite that pairs perfectly with a variety of main dishes.

The balance between rich cheese and tender potatoes creates a harmonious bite. Every forkful makes you feel right at home. It’s also highly customizable. Add herbs, spices, or even proteins to make it your own! You can swap out cheeses, throw in veggies, or even add some crispy bacon. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

2-1/2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
3 Tablespoons butter
1/2 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2-1/2 cups heavy cream
3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
3 cups cheddar cheese, grated
1 Tablespoon chives, chopped (optional)

With these ingredients gathered, you’re ready to transform them into something wonderful!

Preparing the Potatoes

Thinly Slice the Potatoes

The first step is to prepare those potatoes. If you like, you can peel them, but leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients. Slice them thinly, aiming for even pieces about 1/8″ to 1/4″ thick. This helps them cook through at the same rate.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium saucepan, melt 3 Tablespoons of butter over medium heat. As that melts, chop your onion. Add the onion to the pan, sautéing for around 3 minutes until it’s softened. Then, toss in the minced garlic and thyme, stirring for another minute until you smell that delicious aroma. It’s such a wonderful start!

Create the Creamy Sauce

Next, sprinkle in 3 Tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Stir this mixture well, letting it cook for a minute. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while continuing to stir. You’re looking for a smooth and creamy consistency. Add salt, pepper, and cayenne if you want a tiny kick. Finally, mix in 2 cups of cheddar cheese until it melts beautifully. This sauce will be the heart of your dish!

Assembling the Dish

Layer the Potatoes and Sauce

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Start by buttering a baking dish or spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place half of your sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom. Pour half of that delicious cheesy garlic cream sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle 1/2 of the remaining cheddar cheese on top.

Repeat Layers

Repeat this layering process. Place the remaining potatoes on top, followed by the second half of the sauce and the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. If you like, add some chopped chives for a pop of color and flavor.

Baking Instructions

Bake the Dish

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F for 40 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly cheese and tender potatoes that can easily be pierced with a fork. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Serving Suggestions

These Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes shine as a side dish. They pair perfectly with roasted meats, like chicken or beef, and even grilled vegetables. Throw in a simple green salad on the side for freshness—it’s a great complement.

Tips for Success

To make sure everything turns out just right, try these tips:
– Ensure that your potato slices are as even as possible. This way, they cook consistently.
– Give your creamy sauce a taste before layering. You want it just right!
– Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. This makes slicing easier and keeps the layers intact.

Variations

This recipe is delightful as-is, but you can easily mix things up! Consider these variations:
– Swap cheddar for Gruyère or even pepper jack for a spicier flavor.
– Toss in some cooked bacon or ham for extra heartiness.
– Include vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Storage Tips

Leftover Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If you find they’ve dried out a bit, add a splash of cream to revive that creamy goodness.

Pairing Ideas

If you want to elevate your meal, consider pairing these potatoes with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay. A slice of hearty bread can also round out the dinner beautifully.

FAQs

1. Can I make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you’re ready.

2. Can I use different types of potatoes?
Absolutely! Yukon gold or even red potatoes work wonderfully too.

3. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
For a dairy-free twist, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.

4. How do I know when the potatoes are cooked?
When pierced with a fork, the potatoes should be tender, and the cheese should be bubbly.

5. Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
You can, but the texture might change slightly when thawed. Make sure they’re completely cooled before freezing.

With these Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, prepare to impress your loved ones. They deliver a delightful comfort that warms the heart and fills the belly. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, leaving everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite!

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Ingredients