Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the definition of creamy, comforting side dish perfection. Made with tender slices of Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, layered between bubbling cheddar and parmesan cheeses, and soaked in garlic-infused cream — this classic recipe turns any dinner into something special.
Whether you’re prepping for a Sunday roast, holiday gathering, or just want to elevate an ordinary weeknight meal, these potatoes come together beautifully and bake up with the perfect balance of softness, richness, and golden cheese topping.
In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to make cheesy scalloped potatoes that come out flavorful, perfectly cooked, and never watery or bland — plus tips for storing, customizing, and serving them.
If you love indulgent but reliable dishes, don’t miss this Strawberry Pretzel Salad Recipe — another crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prep and perfect for get-togethers.
Table of Contents
Why Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Are a Comfort Food Classic
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: A Timeless Favorite
Cheesy scalloped potatoes have earned their place as one of the most cherished side dishes for family meals, holidays, and celebrations alike. With their creamy texture and layers of tender potatoes baked with cheese, they bring both heartiness and elegance to the table.
This dish blends the humble potato with a luxurious, cheesy cream sauce to create something that feels both homey and special. Every forkful combines soft, well-seasoned potatoes and gooey melted cheese — the kind of dish people look forward to year after year.
Why the Cheesy Version Is Irresistible
While classic scalloped potatoes rely on cream alone, adding freshly grated cheddar and parmesan brings deeper flavor and a beautiful golden crust that finishes the dish beautifully. The sharpness of the cheddar and the nutty richness of the parmesan complement the creamy potatoes without overpowering them, making every layer more flavorful than the last.
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How to Make Perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 95 Mins
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes with tender layers, golden top, and garlic cream sauce. Perfect for holidays and family dinners.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
- 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Slice potatoes thinly and evenly.
- Warm cream, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper gently.
- Layer half of the potatoes in a buttered baking dish, pour half of cream, sprinkle half of each cheese.
- Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.
- Bake covered 40 minutes, then uncovered 25–35 minutes.
- Rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Potato Choice Matters: Both Russet and Yukon Gold work beautifully, but they give slightly different results. Russets are starchier and creamier, while Yukon Golds hold their shape better and have a buttery flavor.
- Use a Mandoline for Consistency: Even slices are crucial for even cooking. A mandoline slicer saves time and ensures each slice is thin and uniform.
- Don’t Burn the Garlic: When warming the cream, sauté the garlic just until fragrant — overcooked garlic can turn bitter.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 75 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: ~415 kcal
- Sugar: ~1 g
- Sodium: ~562 mg
- Fat: ~29 g
- Saturated Fat: ~18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~10 g
- Trans Fat: ~1 g
- Carbohydrates: ~26 g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Protein: ~13 g
- Cholesterol: ~101mg
Ingredients for the Ultimate Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: What You’ll Need
Making perfect cheesy scalloped potatoes starts with choosing the right ingredients. This recipe keeps it simple but flavorful, focusing on quality and balance.
📝 Core Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes | 3 pounds | Their starchiness ensures creamy, tender layers |
| Freshly grated cheddar cheese | 2 cups | Adds a sharp, melty richness |
| Freshly grated parmesan cheese | 1 cup | Gives salty, nutty flavor & a golden top |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon | Adds richness & prevents sticking |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Infuses the cream with flavor |
| Heavy/whipping cream | 2 cups | The creamy base that binds everything together |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Essential for bringing out flavors |
🔷 Optional Add-Ins
If you’re looking to personalize your cheesy scalloped potatoes, here are some ideas:
- A pinch of nutmeg in the cream for a subtle warmth
- Chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for freshness
- Crispy bacon bits sprinkled between the layers or on top
- Gruyère or fontina cheese for a more gourmet flavor
For another dish that shines with just a few simple, high-quality ingredients, check out this refreshing Virgin Strawberry Mojito — perfect for pairing with a hearty meal.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Easy Directions for Perfect Results
Preparing cheesy scalloped potatoes at home is surprisingly simple — no fancy techniques required. Follow these clear steps to build creamy, flavorful layers your family will rave about.
🔷 Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and placing the rack in the middle. Lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish or coat it with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
🔷 Step 2: Slice the Potatoes Evenly
Peel your Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, then slice them into thin, even rounds — about ⅛-inch thick. A mandoline makes this quick and keeps the slices uniform, but a sharp knife works fine too.
🔷 Step 3: Make the Cream Mixture
Place a small saucepan on medium heat and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook gently, just until the aroma hits you — don’t let it brown. Pour in the cream, sprinkle in the salt and pepper, and stir. When the mixture is hot and starts to bubble lightly at the edges, turn off the heat.
🔷 Step 4: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce
Lay down half the potato slices in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them as you go. Pour half the cream mixture over the potatoes, then sprinkle on half of each cheese. Repeat to create a second layer with the remaining ingredients, finishing with cheese on top.
🔷 Step 5: Bake Until Tender
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for around 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking another 25–35 minutes, until the cheese turns golden and a fork or toothpick slides into the potatoes without much resistance.
🔷 Step 6: Let Them Rest
After baking, allow the dish to rest on the counter for 5–10 minutes. This gives the sauce time to settle and the layers to firm up slightly, so cutting and serving is cleaner and easier.
If you enjoy dishes that feel as festive as they are comforting, you can also try the Virgin Lava Flow — a fun and colorful drink to serve alongside your meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Even Better
When preparing cheesy scalloped potatoes, small details can make a big difference. These tips will help you achieve creamy layers, perfectly cooked potatoes, and a golden cheesy top that everyone will rave about.
🔷 Pick the Best Potatoes
Choose between Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes. Russets create a softer, creamier texture due to their higher starch content, while Yukon Golds stay slightly firmer and deliver a buttery flavor.
🔷 Slice Thin and Even
Uneven or thick slices lead to uneven cooking. Aim for slices about ⅛-inch thick, and use a mandoline for quick, uniform results. Always wear a protective glove if using a mandoline to avoid cuts.
🔷 Warm the Cream Gently
When infusing the cream with garlic and seasoning, keep the heat at medium and let it come to a gentle simmer. Avoid boiling hard, which can separate the cream or burn the garlic.
🔷 Layer Like a Pro
Arrange potato slices so they overlap just slightly, letting the sauce flow between layers. Be sure to save enough cheese for a thick top layer that bakes to a golden-brown crust.
🔷 Bake Cleanly
Set your baking dish on a rimmed sheet pan before placing it in the oven. This catches any bubbly drips and keeps your oven clean — no scrubbing required later.
For another elegant dish that impresses without much fuss, check out the Watermelon Sorbet Recipe — a refreshing way to end a rich meal.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: What’s in Each Serving?
While cheesy scalloped potatoes are definitely indulgent, knowing the nutritional breakdown can help you enjoy them mindfully. Below is the approximate nutrition information per serving, based on dividing the recipe into 8 servings.
(Note: this does not include optional add-ins like bacon or herbs, and assumes full-fat cheese & cream as written.)
📊 Full Nutrition Facts (Per ~1/8 of the dish)
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~415 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~29 g |
| — Saturated Fat | ~18 g |
| — Polyunsaturated Fat | ~2 g |
| — Monounsaturated Fat | ~8 g |
| — Unsaturated Fat (total) | ~10 g |
| — Trans Fat | ~1 g |
| Cholesterol | ~101 mg |
| Sodium | ~562 mg |
| Potassium | ~647 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | ~26 g |
| — Dietary Fiber | ~3 g |
| — Sugars | ~1 g |
| Protein | ~13 g |
| Vitamin A | ~1050 IU |
| Vitamin C | ~27 mg |
| Calcium | ~323 mg |
| Iron | ~1 mg |
Notes:
🥔 The carbohydrates come primarily from the potatoes, with a bit from the cream.
🧀 Most of the fat & cholesterol come from the cream and cheeses — you can swap to lower-fat options if desired.
💧 Sodium is moderate, and can be reduced slightly by choosing lower-sodium cheese.
🥗 To add more fiber & nutrients, serve alongside a green salad or roasted vegetables.
For another recipe that’s light yet flavorful, try the Virgin Mimosa Mocktail — it’s a refreshing contrast to rich dishes like this.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Instructions
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Plan Ahead and Enjoy Leftovers
One of the best things about cheesy scalloped potatoes is how well they fit into a busy cooking schedule. You can make them ahead, store leftovers, and reheat them beautifully without losing flavor or texture.
🔷 Make-Ahead Tips
If you’re preparing these for a holiday or dinner party, you can assemble the dish a day in advance:
- Follow the recipe up to the point of baking.
- Cover the assembled (unbaked) dish tightly with foil and refrigerate.
- When ready to bake, let the dish sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes, then bake as directed — adding about 10–15 minutes to the total bake time if still chilled.
🔷 Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesy scalloped potatoes keep well in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Let the dish cool to room temperature.
- Transfer leftovers into an airtight container, or cover the baking dish tightly with foil.
🔷 Reheating Without Drying Out
To bring your potatoes back to life:
- Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 15–20 minutes, until hot throughout.
- Microwave: Place a portion on a plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30–40 second intervals, stirring between.
- Add a splash of cream or milk before reheating if they seem dry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: How to Get Them Right Every Time
Although cheesy scalloped potatoes are a relatively straightforward dish, it’s easy to trip up on a few details that can affect the final result. Here are the most common mistakes — and how to avoid them — so your potatoes come out creamy, tender, and flavorful every time.
🔷 Uneven Potato Slices
If your slices vary in thickness, some pieces may remain firm while others turn mushy. Use a mandoline slicer or take your time cutting by hand to keep them uniform at about ⅛ inch thick.
🔷 Skipping the Warm Cream Step
Pouring cold cream straight from the fridge onto the potatoes can result in a gritty, broken sauce. Always warm the cream gently with butter, garlic, and seasonings before layering — it helps everything melt together smoothly.
🔷 Not Baking Long Enough
It’s tempting to pull the dish out when the top looks golden, but the potatoes underneath might still be underdone. Test by inserting a toothpick or knife into the center — it should glide through with almost no resistance.
🔷 Cutting Too Soon
Serving immediately can cause the creamy layers to slide apart and the sauce to pool at the bottom. Let the dish rest for about 5–10 minutes so the layers firm up.
🔷 Overloading Cheese
While it’s called cheesy scalloped potatoes for a reason, using too much cheese can make the dish oily instead of creamy. Stick to the proportions in the recipe for the best texture and flavor.
For another dish with timeless Southern charm and family appeal, you might enjoy this Orange Creamsicle Salad — sweet, creamy, and perfect for gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making scalloped potatoes?
Some of the most frequent mistakes include slicing the potatoes unevenly, skipping the step of warming the cream before pouring it on, not baking long enough, and cutting into the dish too soon before it has time to set. (See Part 7 above for more details!)
What kind of cheese do you use for scalloped potatoes?
This recipe calls for a mix of cheddar and parmesan, which balances sharpness, creaminess, and that nutty golden crust. You can also experiment with Gruyère, fontina, or even a bit of blue cheese if you like bolder flavors.
What is the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes?
The two are very similar, but the key difference is cheese. Classic scalloped potatoes typically use cream or milk and butter without cheese, while au gratin potatoes always include cheese between the layers and on top. This recipe is a cheesy scalloped potato, which leans closer to au gratin thanks to the generous cheese.
How do you make Paula Deen’s scalloped potatoes?
Paula Deen’s version often includes layers of thin-sliced potatoes, cream, and plenty of cheese — similar to this recipe — but may also feature onions and her signature Southern seasoning for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts: Why This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Works Every Time
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: A Dish That Delivers Every Time
This cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe brings everything you want in a comforting side dish — tender, creamy layers of perfectly cooked potatoes, a rich garlic cream sauce, and a golden cheesy crust that everyone fights over.
It strikes the right balance between approachable and impressive. You don’t need fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, yet the final result looks and tastes like something straight from a fine restaurant. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday crowd, a Sunday dinner, or just to treat yourself, this dish always shines.
And the best part? You can prepare it ahead of time, reheat it with ease, and even tweak the flavors to make it your own. That’s why it’s become a staple for so many families — and why it’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes as well.
We’d love to see how your version turns out! Share your results and join the conversation with our vibrant community on Facebook and check out more inspiration on our Pinterest boards — where you’ll find even more ideas for pairing, plating, and enjoying your cheesy scalloped potatoes.
Happy cooking!