Name: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 large yellow onion, chopped; ½ teaspoon sea salt; 1 (3-pound) butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed; 3 garlic cloves, chopped; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage; ½ tablespoon minced fresh rosemary; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 3 to 4 cups vegetable broth; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley; Toasted pepitas; Crusty bread

If you’re craving something cozy, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. I absolutely love how the creamy, cheesy sauce wraps each tender potato slice in pure goodness. When I first tried this recipe, it quickly became a family favorite, perfect for holidays or any weeknight dinner that calls for a little indulgence. Stick around because I’m going to share all my tips to help you nail this crowd-pleaser!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy Texture: The cheese sauce melts perfectly into the potatoes for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
Simple Ingredients: You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry and fridge.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy dinner, it fits right in.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it later without losing its magic.

A thick orange soup with a smooth texture is being ladled from a white pot into a gray bowl. The soup has small green herb pieces scattered on top, adding specks of color. The white pot sits on a white marbled surface next to a blue checked cloth, green sage leaves, a small wooden bowl with white salt, a glass bottle of oil, and a wooden pepper grinder. A woman's hand holds the bowl while the other woman’s hand holds a wooden-handled ladle, both against a light gray textured sweater background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Choosing the right potatoes and cheese really makes or breaks your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. I always recommend starchy potatoes like Russets, paired with a sharp cheddar to balance creaminess and tang. These ingredients blend into a sauce that’s flavorful, not just heavy.

Russet Potatoes: Their starchy nature helps the sauce thicken up nicely.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds that classic sharp, cheesy flavor that stands out.
Butter: For richness and a golden finish on top.
All-purpose Flour: To create the roux that thickens the sauce.
Milk: I use whole milk for extra creaminess, but you can substitute if needed.
Garlic: A touch of garlic elevates the dish without overpowering it.
Salt & Pepper: To season and bring out all the flavors.
Onion Powder: Adds subtle depth if you want to skip fresh onions.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I’m all about making this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe your own. Over time, I’ve played around with different cheeses and added extras to keep things interesting. Don’t be shy to experiment—your kitchen, your rules!

Different Cheeses: Mixing Gruyère or mozzarella with cheddar gives a wonderful melt and depth.
Adding Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary stirred into the cheese sauce really perks things up.
Make it Lighter: Swap whole milk for half-and-half or evaporated milk to reduce richness without losing creaminess.
Add Bacon or Ham: For meat lovers, crisped bacon on top or diced ham mixed in adds a smoky, savory bite.

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Slice Your Potatoes Thinly

Start by peeling your potatoes and slicing them about 1/8 inch thick. I like using a mandoline for this—makes the layers even and the cooking more uniform. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife works fine, just take your time. Consistent slices ensure every layer cooks at the same pace and bakes into that famous creaminess.

Step 2: Make the Velvety Cheese Sauce

Here’s the magic: melt butter in a saucepan, stir in flour to make a roux, then slowly whisk in milk to prevent lumps. Cook it gently until thickened, then add your cheese—my go-to is sharp cheddar. Stir until it’s all melted into a smooth, luscious sauce. Don’t rush this step; patience here pays off in flavor and texture.

Step 3: Layer Your Dish and Bake

Butter your baking dish, then layer in potatoes and pour some cheese sauce between each layer. I like to finish with a generous topping of cheese on top for a beautifully golden crust. Cover with foil for the first half, then uncover to let the top brown perfectly. Bake until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly—usually about an hour.

Step 4: Rest Before Serving

This step is crucial! Letting the scalloped potatoes rest for at least 10 minutes after baking helps the sauce thicken a bit more and the dish set, making it easier to serve without everything sliding apart. I learned this the hard way after too many messy plates!

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Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Uniform Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer if you can – it makes all the difference for even cooking.
Don’t Skip the Roux: This step thickens your sauce perfectly, so take your time and whisk well to avoid lumps.
Layer Generously: Don’t skimp on the cheese sauce; it’s what makes this dish decadently good.
Rest Before Serving: Letting it sit after baking helps everything set for perfect slices.

How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

The image shows a round white pot filled with bright orange soup, topped with small green herb pieces scattered on the surface. Next to the pot, a white bowl with a silver spoon also contains the same soup garnished with some green herbs. Both the pot and bowl sit on a white marbled surface. Around them are a beige and blue checkered cloth, two silver spoons, green sage leaves, a small glass jar filled with yellow liquid, and a light wooden pepper grinder. The soup has a smooth texture with a few small bubbles near the center. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love adding freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and brightness. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top just before serving, then give it a quick zap under the broiler for a melty, bubbly finish. It feels fancy but is super easy!

Side Dishes

This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted veggies, like Brussels sprouts or green beans, and a simple green salad balances the richness perfectly. For a heartier meal, grilled chicken or baked ham are classic companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday dinners, I’ve served this in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs—makes the meal feel personalized and festive. Another fun idea: layer it in a pretty gratin dish with a crispy breadcrumb topping for added texture that guests always rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they typically last about 3 to 4 days. Just cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap to keep the top from drying out. Reheating is a breeze!

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch, this recipe freezes well. I freeze it before baking in a freezer-safe dish, then thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed. It stays creamy and delicious with minimal effort.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep moisture in, for about 20 minutes until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just cover loosely to avoid splatters and stir halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe?

Absolutely! While Russets are ideal for their starchiness, Yukon Golds work well too and add a slightly buttery flavor. Just keep in mind that waxier potatoes might not achieve the same creamy texture.
How do I avoid the cheese sauce from separating?

To keep your sauce smooth, melt the cheese gently over low heat and avoid boiling the sauce once the cheese is added. Stir frequently and use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for the best result.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! It holds up great in the fridge and can be reheated easily. It’s a fantastic make-ahead side for busy weeks or special gatherings.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

To make it dairy-free, try using plant-based milks and vegan cheese substitutes. You might need to adjust seasoning a bit, but it can still be creamy and delicious with the right ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe feels like a warm hug plated up, and I love sharing it because it’s reliably delicious and surprisingly simple. Every time I serve it, the smiles around the table say it all — it’s comfort food at its finest. If you try it out, I’d bet you’ll find it’s your new go-to side dish too. Happy cooking, friend!