The Ultimate Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe: Rich, Creamy, and Crowd-Pleasing
Layered with tender potatoes and rich sauce for a side dish everyone loves.
The Ultimate Guide to Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
If you’re searching for a universally adored, ultra-comforting side dish, few recipes measure up to cheesy scalloped potatoes. These potatoes are a showstopper—effortlessly elegant for festive tables, yet simple enough for a cozy family meal. This guide covers everything you need to know for making the best scalloped potatoes: ingredients, detailed steps, chef’s tips, common variations, make-ahead strategies, and key troubleshooting advice for truly unforgettable results.
Why Are Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes So Popular?
Scalloped potatoes hold a cherished spot in home-cooked traditions. Their creamy texture, cheesy richness, and aromatic herbs make them a frequent feature during holidays like Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. But their straightforward preparation and hearty appeal mean they’re just as perfect for a casual Sunday supper.
- Classic comfort food: Satisfying, rich, and filling—ideal for large gatherings.
- Customizable: Easily adjust for dietary needs or flavor preferences.
- Prep-friendly: Can be made ahead or assembled the day before.
- Perfect for leftovers: Reheats beautifully for days after baking.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes vs. Potatoes au Gratin: What’s the Difference?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are subtle distinctions between these two beloved dishes:
| Characteristic | Scalloped Potatoes | Potatoes au Gratin |
|---|---|---|
| Base Liquid | Milk and/or cream | Usually cream, sometimes includes eggs |
| Cheese | Optional, but common in modern recipes | Traditionally includes cheese in every layer |
| Preparation | Sliced potatoes simmered in liquid, then baked | Often layered raw with cheese and cream, then baked |
| Texture | Creamy, soft potatoes; top is often broiled for golden crust | Heavier cheese presence with a deeply browned crust |
Ingredients for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Every great scalloped potatoes recipe starts with a handful of high-quality, simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for classic, crowd-pleasing results:
- Salted butter, for greasing the baking dish
- Whole milk – 3 cups
- Heavy cream – 1 1/2 cups
- Yukon Gold potatoes – About 4 lbs. (7 medium), peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
- Fresh thyme leaves – 1 tablespoon
- Minced garlic – 3 cloves
- Ground nutmeg – 1/8 teaspoon
- Kosher salt – 2 1/2 teaspoons
- Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
- White cheddar cheese – 12 ounces, shredded
- Chopped fresh chives, for garnish
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butter a 4-quart baking dish to prevent sticking and add extra richness.
- Simmer Potatoes:
- In a large pot, combine the milk, heavy cream, peeled and sliced potatoes, thyme, garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are just slightly tender—about 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat so potatoes don’t overcook before baking.
- Layer Potatoes and Cheese:
- Spoon one-third of the potato mixture (including some liquid) into your prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
- Repeat the layering process so you have two layers topped with cheese. Finally, add the remaining potato mixture and any cream left in the pot to the dish.
- Reserve the last third of cheese for the final broil.
- Bake Until Tender:
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Bake for about 40 minutes, until the potatoes are fully tender and the creamy mixture is bubbling all over.
- Broil and Finish:
- Carefully remove the foil and switch your oven to the broil setting.
- Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top and return the dish to the oven.
- Broil for 3–5 minutes, keeping a close eye to achieve a bubbling, golden-brown crust without burning.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Let the casserole sit for 30 minutes before serving so it finishes setting and slices neatly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped chives for a burst of color and freshness.
Essential Tips for Cheesy Scalloped Potato Success
- Even Slices: Aim for uniformly thin potato slices (about 1/8 inch). A mandoline is ideal for this, ensuring even cooking and the perfect layered texture.
- Do Not Overcook During Simmer: The initial simmer is to par-cook the potatoes. If they get too soft, they will fall apart when baked.
- Select the Right Cheese: White cheddar melts well and provides a sharp, nutty flavor. For variety, blend with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a bit of Parmesan.
- Rest Before Serving: This allows the sauce to thicken and the slices to hold together when cut.
- Browning the Top: Watch the broiler closely in the final step for a golden crust without burning the cheese.
Common Variations and Ingredient Swaps
- Herbs: Replace thyme with rosemary or sage for an herbal twist.
- Ham or Bacon: Add diced ham or crumbled, crisp-cooked bacon for a heartier main course.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit any added meats and use vegetable stock in place of some cream for a lighter texture.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with Gruyère for a classic French flavor, or add a touch of smoked gouda for depth.
- Spices: A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika adds subtle heat and smokiness.
What others are reading
How to Make Ahead and Store Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, increase the initial baking time by 5–10 minutes to compensate for the cold start.
- Storing Leftovers: Cool completely, then cover tightly. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until heated through. For a crisp cheese topping, uncover for the final 5 minutes.
- Freezing: While you can freeze cheesy scalloped potatoes, texture may change slightly. Bake, cool, then wrap well and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy scalloped potatoes make an excellent side dish for:
- Roast beef, ham, or turkey for holiday feasts
- Baked chicken or pork chops for Sunday dinners
- Vegetarian mains like grilled mushrooms or sautéed greens
- Hearty stews or casseroles
For best results, pair with a crisp green salad or light vegetables to balance the dish’s richness.
Troubleshooting: Scalloped Potato Problems and Solutions
- Potatoes not tender? Extend baking time by 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent over-browning.
- Liquid not thickened? Resting is crucial—allow the dish to sit 30 minutes post-baking for sauce to set.
- Cheese burned on top? Reduce broil time or move dish to a lower oven rack.
- Potatoes are watery? Simmer a bit longer before baking to reduce moisture, and ensure you slice potatoes evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?
Yes, russet potatoes will work. They have more starch, resulting in a slightly fluffier texture. Yukon Golds are creamier and maintain their shape better after baking.
How can I tell when the scalloped potatoes are done?
The potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork and the creamy sauce should be bubbling throughout. The top will also be golden and slightly crisp after broiling.
Can I make these scalloped potatoes gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no flour or breadcrumbs. Always double-check your cheese and other ingredients for behind-the-scenes gluten sources if cooking for someone with celiac disease.
What’s the best way to slice potatoes evenly?
A mandoline slicer is the best tool for slicing potatoes to uniform thinness (about 1/8 inch). A sharp knife and steady hand also work in a pinch.
Why do my potatoes turn gray after slicing?
Potatoes can oxidize and darken if left exposed to air. To keep them fresh and white, immediately add sliced potatoes to the milk and cream mixture.
Nutritional Snapshot (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 350–400
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Protein: 11g
- Fiber: 3g
*Values vary depending on cheese type and serving size.
Final Tips for Perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Let rest before serving: This is the key to a dish that slices beautifully and isn’t soupy.
- Add fresh chives or herbs just before serving for brightness and color.
- Use high-quality cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts more evenly than pre-shredded varieties, which may contain anti-caking agents.
- Broil with care: The final step transforms the top into a cheesy, golden crown—be vigilant to prevent burning.
Printable Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients:
- Salted butter, for greasing
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 4 lbs. Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/8-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp. chopped fresh thyme
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg
- 2 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 12 oz. white cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh chives, for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Butter a 4-quart baking dish.
- In large pot, combine milk, cream, potatoes, thyme, garlic, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Bring to boil over medium-high; simmer 3 minutes until potatoes slightly tender.
- Spoon 1/3 of potato mixture (including liquid) into baking dish. Top with 1/3 cheese. Repeat layers twice, finishing with potatoes and any remaining liquid. Reserve last third of cheese.
- Cover with foil; bake 40 minutes until tender and bubbly.
- Uncover, broil with reserved cheese 3–5 minutes until golden brown.
- Let rest 30 minutes. Garnish with chives; serve warm.
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBvgBDv7P_4
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a60154806/cheesy-scalloped-potatoes-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5v6BlKpWadQ
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11483/perfect-potatoes-au-gratin/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a10593/scalloped-potatoes-and-ham/
- http://atreatsaffair.com/pioneer-womans-potatoes-au-gratin/
- https://30seconds.com/food/tip/54464/The-Pioneer-Womans-Perfect-Cheesy-Au-Gratin-Potatoes-Recipe
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