There’s something undeniably comforting about a bubbling dish of cheesy scalloped potatoes fresh from the oven. I grew up watching my grandmother slice potatoes by hand, layering them with love, butter, and just the right amount of cheese. This dish became a staple at every holiday table—and for good reason. It’s rich, creamy, golden on top, and loaded with flavor in every bite.

What I love about cheesy scalloped potatoes is how something so simple can deliver such bold comfort. The velvety texture, combined with that irresistible crispy cheese crust, makes it impossible to stop at one serving. Whether it’s a side dish or the star of your dinner, this recipe never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

This dish is everything you want in a cozy baked meal: warm, filling, and incredibly easy to make with kitchen staples. The potatoes are tender, the sauce is thick and cheesy, and the top turns perfectly golden-brown. Plus, it’s easy to prep ahead and reheats beautifully.

Whether you're planning a Sunday dinner, potluck, or looking for a new comfort food favorite, this cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe fits right in.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

For the best results, I always recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Yukon Golds have a naturally buttery texture and hold their shape beautifully during baking, giving the dish a creamy yet firm consistency. Russets, on the other hand, are starchy and break down more, which helps thicken the sauce naturally and adds to the creaminess.

If you're after a balance—soft but still structured—go for Yukon Gold. If you love an ultra-creamy texture that almost melts in your mouth, Russets are your best friend.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand—this dish is wonderfully flexible. Here are some easy substitutions you can try:

Cheese: Swap sharp cheddar with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a combo of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different flavor twist.
Milk or Cream: Whole milk works well, but you can use half-and-half or even evaporated milk for a richer finish. Dairy-free alternatives like oat or cashew milk can work too, though the texture may vary slightly.
Butter: Olive oil or vegan butter can be substituted if you need a dairy-free option.
Onion: Shallots or leeks add a milder flavor if you're not a fan of onions.
Flour: Gluten-free flour or cornstarch can thicken the sauce just as well.

These swaps let you personalize the dish while still getting that comforting, cheesy goodness.

Ingredients for This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Potatoes
The heart of the dish. Thinly sliced potatoes soak up the creamy sauce and bake into soft, tender layers. I prefer Yukon Gold for their buttery flavor and perfect texture.
Butter
Adds richness and forms the base of the roux, helping to bind the sauce and create that velvety finish.
All-purpose Flour
Used to thicken the creamy cheese sauce. It helps the layers hold together without becoming runny.
Milk
Provides the creamy texture of the sauce. Whole milk works best for a rich consistency.
Garlic
Just a hint adds a wonderful aroma and depth without overpowering the cheese.
Onion
Sautéed onion adds subtle sweetness and layers of flavor throughout the dish.
Cheddar Cheese
The star of the show—sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives the potatoes that bold, cheesy punch.
Salt and Pepper
Essential for balancing the richness of the cheese and enhancing every bite.
Fresh Parsley (optional)
Sprinkled on top before serving for a pop of color and a fresh finish.

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly—about ⅛-inch thick. A mandoline slicer works best for even slices, but a sharp knife will do the job. Set them aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant—about 2–3 minutes. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw taste.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture begins to thicken—this should take 5–7 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes

Grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom. Pour some of the cheese sauce over the layer, spreading evenly. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

How Long to Cook Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy scalloped potatoes should bake for 55–60 minutes in total at 375°F (190°C).

The first 30 minutes covered with foil helps the potatoes steam and soften.
The final 25–30 minutes uncovered allows the top to develop that irresistible golden crust.

You'll know it's ready when the top is bubbling and browned, and a knife slides easily through the layers.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Slice the potatoes evenly – Uniform slices ensure even cooking. Thinner is better for a more melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Don’t skip the roux – Cooking the butter and flour before adding milk gives the sauce a creamy, stable base that won’t separate.
Use sharp cheese – It brings bolder flavor and better meltability. Mild cheeses tend to get lost in the sauce.
Let it rest – Give the dish 10–15 minutes to cool before serving. It thickens as it sits and slices more neatly.
Try a cheese combo – Mixing cheddar with a bit of Parmesan or Gruyère takes things to the next level.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Using the wrong type of potato
Waxy potatoes can turn rubbery. Stick with Yukon Gold or Russet for the best texture and flavor.
Cutting potatoes too thick
Thick slices take much longer to cook and can end up underdone while the top burns. Aim for ⅛-inch thickness.
Skipping the roux step
Pouring milk directly over the potatoes without a thickened sauce results in a watery dish. The roux ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
Not seasoning the sauce well
Under-seasoned sauce leads to bland potatoes. Be generous with salt and pepper, and taste before assembling.
Baking uncovered the whole time
This can dry out the top before the potatoes are done. Cover first to steam, then uncover to brown.

What to Serve With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Roast Chicken

A simple roast chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of the potatoes.

Glazed Ham

The salty-sweet flavor of ham cuts through the creamy cheese layers beautifully.

Grilled Steak

A hearty main that matches the boldness of the potatoes.

Green Beans Almondine

Light, buttery green beans balance out the richness of the dish.

Crisp Garden Salad

Fresh greens with a tangy vinaigrette add a refreshing contrast.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their nutty, caramelized flavor complements the cheesy depth of the potatoes.

BBQ Ribs

If you’re going all-in on comfort, cheesy scalloped potatoes and sticky ribs are a dream combo.

Herb-Crusted Salmon

A lighter protein that still brings enough flavor to stand up to the creamy side.

Storage Instructions

Cheesy scalloped potatoes store very well, making them a great make-ahead or leftover-friendly dish.

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil. They’ll keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezer: You can freeze them after baking. Let the dish cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 20–25 minutes), or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on exact ingredients used and portion size.

Calories: 320
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 480mg
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 12g

This dish is definitely rich, but also satisfying—and a perfect indulgence when comfort food is calling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cheesy scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, then bake as directed.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Avoid high heat when cooking the sauce and use whole milk or cream, which are more stable than low-fat milk. Baking covered for the first half also helps regulate the temperature.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely. Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend or cornstarch. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, though the flavor and texture will change slightly. Use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and dairy-free butter. Choose a rich, creamy alternative like cashew milk for best results.

Why are my potatoes still firm after baking?

You may have sliced them too thick or not baked the dish long enough. Make sure slices are no thicker than ⅛ inch, and test for doneness with a fork before removing from the oven.

What cheese works best besides cheddar?

Gruyère is an excellent substitute—it melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor. You can also mix in mozzarella, Parmesan, or even smoked gouda for variety.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes! Crumbled bacon, diced ham, or cooked sausage make great additions. Just mix them into the layers as you build the dish.

How do I get that golden, bubbly top?

Remove the foil for the last 25–30 minutes of baking. For extra browning, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end—but keep a close eye on it!

Conclusion

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are one of those timeless comfort foods that brings joy to any table. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish delivers rich, creamy layers of flavor in every bite. With flexible ingredients and foolproof steps, it’s a recipe worth mastering—and making again and again. Once you see how easy and satisfying it is, it’s bound to become a regular in your kitchen lineup.