There’s something irresistible about a bubbling dish of scalloped potatoes straight from the oven. The layers of tender potatoes, drenched in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, are pure comfort food heaven. I love making this dish when I want something satisfying and indulgent, but still simple to prepare. It’s perfect for holidays, cozy Sunday dinners, or just when you need a little comfort on your plate.

What I adore about Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is how versatile they are. You can dress them up with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or keep them classic and straightforward. The golden, crispy edges and creamy interior always win over guests, making it a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is mouth-watering.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Creamy and Comforting: The combination of melted cheese, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce is comfort food at its finest.
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like potatoes, cheese, butter, and milk – nothing fancy, just delicious.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a hearty side dish for roasts, chicken, or even on its own with a salad for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive occasion, everyone loves cheesy, golden scalloped potatoes.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep it in advance and bake just before serving, making life a little easier.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

Choosing the right potatoes is essential for achieving that creamy, dreamy texture in your Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. I find that Yukon Gold potatoes work best because of their buttery flavor and naturally creamy texture. They hold their shape well during baking while still becoming tender and luscious.

If you prefer a starchier option, Russet potatoes are also a great choice. They break down more as they cook, resulting in a super-soft, almost mashed texture within the layers. Whichever you choose, just make sure to slice them evenly for consistent cooking.

Options for Substitutions

Customizing this recipe is easy and fun! Here are some substitution ideas if you want to switch things up:

Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is my go-to for its meltability and flavor, you can mix it up with Gruyère, Parmesan, or even mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative, and use almond or oat milk with a touch of nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
Add Some Protein: Toss in cooked bacon, ham, or even shredded chicken to make this dish more filling.
Herb Boost: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to enhance the flavor.
Cream Swap: If you’re out of heavy cream, use half-and-half or even milk for a lighter version.
Gluten-Free: Simply use gluten-free flour if you’re making a roux-based sauce.

Ingredients for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

To create this creamy, cheesy masterpiece, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building that luscious, comforting flavor.

Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best. Yukon Golds offer a creamy texture, while Russets give a softer, melt-in-your-mouth feel.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its rich flavor and great melting quality. You can also mix in Gruyère for added depth.
Heavy Cream & Milk: The combination creates the perfect creamy sauce. Heavy cream adds richness, while milk keeps it from being overly thick.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create a silky sauce when melted and mixed with flour.
Flour: Used to make a roux, which thickens the sauce for a smooth, creamy texture.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor with a subtle, aromatic kick.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer to perfection.
Fresh Herbs (Optional): Thyme or rosemary sprigs add a lovely earthy aroma and extra flavor.
Nutmeg (Optional): Just a pinch adds warmth and complexity to the creamy sauce.

Step 1: Prepare and Slice the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Peel and slice the potatoes into 1/8-inch thick rounds. Keeping the slices uniform is important to ensure even cooking. A mandoline slicer works best, but a sharp knife will do just fine.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.

Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth. Reduce heat to low, then stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using).

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and spread evenly. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce, ensuring everything is well-coated.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let the dish rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to set. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs if desired, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

How Long to Cook Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

The total cooking time for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is approximately 70–75 minutes. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Covered Baking: 45 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This allows the potatoes to cook through without the top burning.
Uncovered Baking: 25–30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. This step gives you that irresistible crispy, cheesy crust.
Resting Time: About 10 minutes before serving, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.

Keep in mind that if your potato slices are thicker than 1/8-inch, you may need to add an extra 10–15 minutes of covered baking time.

Tips for Perfect Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Achieving cheesy, creamy perfection is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to make sure your scalloped potatoes turn out amazing every time:

Use Starchy Potatoes: Yukon Golds or Russets are ideal. They become tender and absorb the sauce beautifully.
Slice Evenly: Make sure your potato slices are uniform. A mandoline slicer is your best friend here for consistency.
Season Thoroughly: Layering potatoes with salt and pepper ensures the entire dish is flavorful, not just the cheese sauce.
Slow, Gentle Baking: Baking at 350°F gives the potatoes time to become tender without scorching the cheese.
Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps the sauce thicken and settle.
Experiment with Cheese Blends: Adding Gruyère or Parmesan to the cheddar enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
Check for Doneness: Insert a knife into the center—if it slides through easily, your potatoes are perfectly tender.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even simple dishes like Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes can have a few pitfalls. Here’s what to avoid:

Using the Wrong Potatoes: Waxy potatoes like Red or New potatoes won’t break down as nicely, resulting in a firmer texture. Stick with Yukon Golds or Russets for the best results.
Cutting Potatoes Too Thick: Thicker slices take much longer to cook and may leave you with underdone potatoes. Aim for 1/8-inch slices.
Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting into the dish too soon results in a runny sauce. Letting it rest for 10 minutes is crucial for a creamy texture.
Forgetting to Cover the Dish: Baking uncovered for the entire time can cause the top to dry out before the potatoes are tender. Cover for the first part of baking, then uncover to brown.
Insufficient Seasoning: Potatoes need plenty of salt and pepper throughout the layers for maximum flavor.
Overcooking the Sauce: If you cook the cheese sauce over high heat, it may separate and become grainy. Keep the heat medium to low when melting the cheese.
Rushing the Cooking Process: Trying to bake at a higher temperature to speed things up can result in uneven cooking.

What to Serve With Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes are rich and creamy, making them a fantastic side dish for a variety of main courses. Here are some great pairing options:

1. Roast Chicken

Juicy, golden roast chicken complements the creamy, cheesy potatoes beautifully.

2. Grilled Steak

A hearty steak with crispy, cheesy potatoes on the side is pure comfort food bliss.

3. Honey-Glazed Ham

The sweetness of honey-glazed ham contrasts perfectly with the savory richness of the potatoes.

4. Baked Salmon

A lighter option that pairs well with the decadent, creamy potatoes.

5. Green Bean Almondine

Fresh, crisp green beans with buttery almonds provide a nice balance to the richness of the potatoes.

6. Roasted Vegetables

Pairing with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus adds color and freshness to your plate.

7. BBQ Ribs

Smoky, tender ribs and cheesy potatoes are a match made in heaven for backyard gatherings.

8. Garden Salad

For a lighter touch, serve the potatoes with a crisp, refreshing salad topped with vinaigrette.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (though that’s rarely the case!), Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes can be stored and enjoyed later. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Refrigerator: Store cooled scalloped potatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven helps retain the crispiness of the top layer.
Freezer: While potatoes don’t always freeze well due to their high water content, you can freeze scalloped potatoes if needed. Allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tips: For the best results, reheat covered with foil to prevent drying out. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: Approximately 320 kcal
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 520mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Calcium: 220mg
Iron: 1.5mg

These values may vary based on the specific ingredients and cheese varieties you use.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.

2. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a delicious, slightly sweet flavor. Just be aware that they cook a bit faster, so check for doneness earlier.

3. Why are my potatoes still hard after baking?

This usually happens if the slices are too thick or the oven temperature is too low. Make sure to cut the potatoes 1/8-inch thick and bake at 350°F.

4. Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze them before baking. Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

5. What cheese works best for scalloped potatoes?

Sharp cheddar is classic for its bold flavor and smooth melting. Gruyère adds nuttiness, while mozzarella provides extra creaminess. Feel free to experiment with blends!

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

7. How do I prevent my cheese sauce from separating?

Keep the heat medium to low when melting the cheese and stir constantly. Adding the cheese gradually also helps achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.

8. Can I add other ingredients to the potatoes?

Definitely! Adding cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor beautifully.

Conclusion

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday feast, cozy family dinner, or just craving something hearty and delicious, this dish never disappoints. With its golden, bubbly top and soft, velvety layers, each bite is pure bliss. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and customize. Once you master the basics, you can experiment with various cheeses, herbs, or even protein additions to make it your own.