Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners and special occasions. With their rich and creamy texture combined with layers of tender potatoes, this dish stands out for its delightful cheesy flavor. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight meal, Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes will impress everyone at the table.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Potatoes
• For the Cheese Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
• Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
• Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
• Step 3: Assemble the Dish
• Step 4: Bake the Potatoes
• Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
• How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
• Pair with Grilled Meats
• Add Fresh Vegetables
• Create a Comfort Food Platter
• How to Perfect Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
• Best Side Dishes for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
• Reheating Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes vegetarian?
• Can I prepare Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?
• What cheese works best for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
• Can I use other types of potatoes?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and cheddar cheese creates a luscious sauce that enhances the potatoes’ natural taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish quickly, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
• Versatile Side Dish: These scalloped potatoes pair well with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian options.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the dish in advance and bake it just before serving, saving you time on busy days.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or proteins, like bacon or ham, to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

To create these Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, you’ll need a few key tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of the potatoes.
• Sharp knife: Using a sharp knife helps you slice the potatoes evenly, which is important for consistent cooking.
• Saucepan: A sturdy saucepan is essential for making the creamy cheese sauce smoothly without burning.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

For the Potatoes

• 2 ½ pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 40 oz)
• ½ onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Cheese Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter (1.5 oz)
• 2 ½ cups heavy cream (20 oz)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (1.5 oz)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated (from a 12 oz block)

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon chives, chopped (optional)

PIN THIS!

How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling the potatoes if desired. Then slice them evenly to about ⅛ to ¼-inch thick using a sharp knife.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook for about 3 minutes until they soften.
3. Stir in minced garlic and thyme; cook for an additional minute.
4. Sprinkle in the flour while stirring continuously to combine.
5. Gradually pour in heavy cream while whisking constantly until smooth.
6. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and cayenne pepper if desired.
7. Mix in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your baking dish lightly.
2. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the base of the dish.
3. Pour half of the cheese sauce over this layer of potatoes.
4. Sprinkle half of the remaining shredded cheese on top of the sauce.
5. Repeat layering with remaining potatoes, cheese sauce, and cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Potatoes

1. Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes in your preheated oven.
2. Afterward, remove foil; sprinkle remaining cheese on top and bake uncovered for another 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Let your Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chives or parsley if desired!

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs well with many main courses. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Grilled Meats

• Steak: The rich and creamy texture of scalloped potatoes complements the robust flavors of a grilled steak.
• Chicken: Serve alongside juicy grilled chicken for a classic comfort food combination.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: The slight crunch of asparagus contrasts beautifully with the softness of the potatoes.
• Steamed Broccoli: This green veggie adds color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the dish.

Create a Comfort Food Platter

• Meatloaf: Combine scalloped potatoes with slices of savory meatloaf for a heartwarming meal.
• Pulled Pork: The tenderness of pulled pork pairs perfectly with the cheesy layers of scalloped potatoes.

How to Perfect Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

To ensure your Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Potatoes: Fresh potatoes provide better texture and flavor compared to pre-packaged or older varieties.
• Slice Evenly: Uniform slices allow for even cooking, ensuring all layers are tender and meld together nicely.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; it enhances the flavor of both the potatoes and cheese sauce.
• Cover with Foil Initially: Covering the dish while baking helps trap steam, allowing the potatoes to cook through before browning.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to cool slightly lets it set up, making it easier to serve without falling apart.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

While Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes shine on their own, they can also be complemented by several delightful side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery accompaniment perfect for scooping up creamy sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add elegance and crunch.
4. Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw brightens up your plate alongside rich potatoes.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements cheesy flavors beautifully; grill or boil for added sweetness.
6. Baked Chicken Wings: Spicy or BBQ chicken wings offer a fun finger-food element next to creamy scalloped potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold slicing: Cutting potatoes unevenly can lead to inconsistent cooking. Use a mandoline for uniform slices.
• Bold neglecting seasoning: Failing to season each layer can result in bland potatoes. Always season with salt and pepper as you layer.
• Bold rushing the cream sauce: Overheating the cream can cause it to scorch. Cook on medium heat and stir constantly for a smooth sauce.
• Bold skipping the foil: Not covering the dish initially can dry out the potatoes. Use foil for the first part of baking to retain moisture.
• Bold underestimating baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your dish. Bake until golden brown and bubbly for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes vegetarian?

You can make this recipe vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the cheese sauce and omitting any meat additions.

Can I prepare Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble everything up to 24 hours in advance and bake it just before serving.

What cheese works best for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Cheddar cheese is ideal due to its melting properties, but feel free to mix in Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added flavor.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Absolutely! Yukon gold or red potatoes work well too. They will provide a slightly different texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful side dish that brings comfort to any meal. Their creamy texture combined with cheesy goodness makes them versatile enough for holidays or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite ingredients, such as bacon or herbs, for a personal touch!

---