Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: 6 Deliciously Easy Steps

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There are few things in life as soul-warming as cheesy scalloped potatoes fresh out of the oven. Creamy, bubbly, golden on top, and loaded with melty goodness—this is the kind of recipe that makes everyone at the table sigh with happiness. And the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to pull together, even if you’ve got a busy week and a million things on your to-do list.

Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, a cozy Sunday dinner, or just need a reliable side dish that feels like a warm hug, this recipe has your back.

Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Family-friendly favorite: Even the pickiest eaters usually can’t resist layers of creamy potatoes and gooey cheese.
Simple ingredients: Nothing fancy—just pantry staples and a few blocks of cheese.
Perfect for holidays or weeknights: These scalloped potatoes are elegant enough for Thanksgiving yet easy enough for a Tuesday dinner.
Customizable: Mix in your favorite cheeses, swap the cream for milk, or sneak in some herbs. It’s your kitchen, your rules!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Potatoes – Baking potatoes are best. Slice them thin with a knife, mandolin, or food processor.
Mozzarella – Shredded for convenience (drain well if using fresh).
Cheddar – Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor; feel free to mix in gruyere, parmesan, or fontina.
Half and half / heavy cream – Full-fat cream makes this extra luscious.
Milk – Whole milk gives richness, but you can use skim for a lighter version.
Butter – Unsalted or salted; just adjust extra salt accordingly.
Flour – All-purpose flour to create the roux.
Onion powder – Or sautéed fresh onions for extra flavor.
Garlic powder – Or roasted fresh garlic for a deeper taste.
Salt & pepper – Season to taste; swap with cayenne or nutmeg if you like a little heat.
Parsley (or dill) – For garnish. Thyme, rosemary, or sage also work beautifully.

Scroll Down To See the recipe card for exact quantities.

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Prep the dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter your baking dish like you’re giving it a spa treatment—it’ll help keep things from sticking.
Slice the potatoes
Peel and slice thinly. The thinner, the better, so they cook evenly and get that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Make the creamy sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour until smooth and slightly golden (hello, roux!).
- Slowly add the milk and cream, whisking like you’re warding off lumps.
- Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
Cheese time
Stir in mozzarella and cheddar until they melt into silky goodness. Try not to eat it straight from the pan. (No judgment if you do.)
Layer it up
- Place half the potato slices into the baking dish.
- Pour over half the sauce.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Finish the bake
Remove the foil, add the rest of the sauce, and bake for another hour until golden and bubbly.
Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with parsley or herbs. Serve hot. Watch as plates magically empty.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Don’t rush the bake. If you want truly tender potatoes, give them the full hour in the oven.
Mix cheeses. A blend of cheddar and gruyere makes this dish taste gourmet.
Make ahead. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when you’re ready (just add an extra 10–15 minutes).
Extra crispy top? Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end until golden perfection.

A Little Story From My Kitchen

This recipe has rescued me more times than I can count. Once, on a week where life felt like a giant game of “how many errands can you juggle at once,” I whipped these scalloped potatoes together for dinner. No fancy sides, no fuss—just these creamy layers and a roasted chicken from the grocery store. My family acted like I’d pulled off a gourmet feast. Proof that sometimes the simplest recipes really do bring the most joy.

Close-up of creamy cheesy scalloped potatoes baked in a white dish with golden, crispy edges and sprinkled parsley on top. — These cheesy scalloped potatoes are baked to golden perfection—creamy in the middle, crispy on the edges, and absolutely irresistible.

FAQs About Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Can I make cheesy scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Just increase baking time slightly.

What’s the best cheese for scalloped potatoes?

Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, gruyere, and parmesan all add amazing flavor.

Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?

You can, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze before baking for the best results, then bake from frozen.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Bring Comfort to Your Table

There’s just something magical about cheesy scalloped potatoes. They’re rich, cozy, and endlessly versatile—perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any night when comfort food is calling your name. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a regular on your table.

So go ahead—slice those potatoes, melt that cheese, and let your oven do the hard work. Dinner is about to feel like a warm hug.

More Recipes to Try with Your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

If you loved these creamy, comforting scalloped potatoes, you’ll want to check out a few more dishes that pair beautifully with them or bring that same cozy vibe to your table:

Pair your potatoes with this hearty Autumn Harvest Beef Stew for the ultimate fall comfort meal.
For a lighter but equally satisfying option, try the creamy and flavorful Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken.
Bring a touch of sweetness to the table with Maple and Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots — they balance the richness of cheesy potatoes perfectly.
And if you’re in the mood for a classic comfort food casserole, don’t miss this hearty Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie.