Creamy, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes – The Ultimate Comfort Food

Is there anything more satisfying than a warm, bubbling dish of scalloped potatoes fresh from the oven? This classic, creamy side dish has been a favorite for generations, offering layers of thinly sliced potatoes drenched in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. The combination of tender potatoes and savory seasonings creates a mouthwatering dish that is hard to resist.

Scalloped potatoes are the perfect complement to any meal, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or a casual potluck. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, and even a crisp green salad. The simplicity of this dish makes it easy to prepare, yet its flavors are indulgent enough to feel like a special treat.

With a few basic ingredients and simple techniques, you can achieve a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. This recipe uses a homemade cheese sauce rather than relying on canned soup, ensuring a rich and natural flavor. The result is a golden, bubbly dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Topping (Optional but Recommended!):

• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

How to Make It

1. Preheat & Prep: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Peel and slice the potatoes into thin, uniform rounds, about 1/8 inch thick, to ensure even cooking. Finely chop the onion and set aside.

2. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until the mixture turns a light golden color. This step eliminates the raw flour taste and creates the base for the sauce. Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the Cheese and Seasonings: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If you like, add dried thyme for an extra layer of flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

4. Layer the Potatoes: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the chopped onions evenly over the potatoes, then pour half of the cheese sauce on top, spreading it gently with a spatula. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onions, and sauce.

5. Prepare the Topping (Optional): In a small bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated, then sprinkle over the top of the dish for a golden, crispy finish.

6. Bake & Finish: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. For an extra crispy topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

7. Rest & Serve: Let the dish sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve neat portions. Enjoy with your favorite main dishes or on its own as a comforting, indulgent treat.

Tips & Tricks

• Slice Evenly: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform, thin potato slices to ensure even cooking.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when needed.
• Extra Cheesy? Add another 1/2 cup of cheese on top before baking.
• Crispy Topping Hack: Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for a golden, crunchy top.
• Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheat beautifully.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
• Protein Boost: Layer in some ham, bacon, or shredded chicken.
• Dairy-Free: Swap in almond milk and vegan cheese.
• Herb Lovers: Fresh thyme or rosemary takes this to another level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Ultra Creamy & Cheesy – The best part? That rich, melty sauce.
✔ Crowd-Pleasing Side – Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or Sunday dinners.
✔ Simple Ingredients – Nothing fancy, just pantry staples for an unforgettable dish.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – Saves time on busy cooking days.

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Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out.