Let me tell you, there’s something undeniably comforting about a creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Imagine thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes layered with rich cream and a melty blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheese, all baked to golden perfection. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around the table in anticipation. It’s the kind of side dish that brings smiles and satisfied sighs, making any meal feel special. Trust me, once you try this cheesy goodness, you’ll want it at every feast!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for greasing the dish
How to Prepare Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your cheesy scalloped potatoes bake evenly and thoroughly. While the oven heats up, grab a baking dish and generously grease it with unsalted butter. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a little extra deliciousness to the edges of your dish.
Layering the Ingredients
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—layering! Start by placing half of your thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes in an even layer in the greased baking dish. Don’t rush this step; it’s important for achieving that lovely, creamy texture throughout. Once the first layer is down, pour half of your prepared cream mixture over the potatoes, making sure to cover them well. Next, sprinkle half of the grated sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheese over the top. Now, repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, cream, and cheeses. Remember, even layering is key; it helps the potatoes cook uniformly and absorb all that cheesy goodness!
Baking Instructions
After your layers are all set, it’s time to bake! Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the moisture and steam the potatoes while they cook. Bake for 45 minutes, then carefully remove the foil. This is where the magic happens—bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. To check for doneness, simply pierce the potatoes with a fork; they should be tender throughout. The goal is that perfect combination of soft, creamy potatoes and a crispy, cheesy top that everyone will want to dig into!
Tips for Success
To elevate your cheesy scalloped potatoes to the next level, start with high-quality ingredients. Fresh, creamy heavy cream and good cheeses make a world of difference in flavor. I always recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes because they’re buttery and hold their shape well during baking. For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream mixture; it complements the cheese beautifully! Also, be sure to slice your potatoes as evenly as possible—this ensures they cook uniformly. And don’t forget to let your dish rest for about 10 minutes after baking; this allows the layers to set so each scoop is perfect and intact!
Variations of the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
One of the best things about cheesy scalloped potatoes is how versatile they can be! If you’re looking for a flavor boost, consider adding crispy cooked bacon or sautéed caramelized onions between the layers. They bring a wonderful depth that pairs perfectly with the cream and cheese. For cheese lovers, mix it up by substituting Gruyere with fontina or mozzarella for a different melty experience. You can also sneak in some veggies—think thinly sliced leeks, spinach, or even roasted garlic—just layer them along with the potatoes. Each twist brings a new dimension to this classic dish, making it just as exciting every time you make it!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of these cheesy scalloped potatoes. Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 450 calories, 35g of fat, 15g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. You’ll also find about 600mg of sodium and 3g of fiber. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are such a delightful side dish, and they pair beautifully with a variety of main courses! I love serving them alongside a perfectly roasted chicken or a succulent honey-glazed ham for a classic comfort meal. They also complement grilled steaks or barbecued ribs wonderfully, adding that creamy richness to balance out the flavors. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing them with a fresh, vibrant salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. And don’t forget about a nice glass of white wine—something crisp and chilled like a Chardonnay enhances the entire dining experience. Enjoy creating your perfect meal!
FAQ Section
Can I prepare cheesy scalloped potatoes in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What type of potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes?
I highly recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes. They’ve got a creamy texture that holds up beautifully during baking. Avoid using starchy potatoes like Russets, as they can become mushy.
Can I use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream?
While you can use low-fat milk, it won’t yield the same rich and creamy results. The heavy cream is what gives scalloped potatoes their luxurious texture, so if you want to keep it indulgent, stick with it!
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
You’ll know your cheesy scalloped potatoes are done when the top is bubbly and golden brown. A fork should easily pierce through the potatoes, indicating they’re tender throughout. If they need a bit more time, just pop them back in the oven for a few extra minutes.
Can I freeze cheesy scalloped potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just let them cool completely after baking, then transfer to an airtight container. They should keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe: 7 Steps to Comfort Food
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy dish made with layers of thinly sliced potatoes and cheese, baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for greasing dish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with unsalted butter.
- In a bowl, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish.
- Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle half of the cheddar and Gruyere cheese over the cream.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, cream, and cheese.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a different flavor, try adding cooked bacon or caramelized onions between the layers.
- Experiment with different cheeses such as fontina or mozzarella for variation.
- Ensure even slicing of potatoes for consistent cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe