When the chill of autumn settles in and the leaves begin to paint the ground in warm hues, my thoughts inevitably turn to comfort food. One dish that never fails to warm my heart and home is a creamy tray of cheesy scalloped potatoes. The moment I peel back the foil to reveal the golden-brown crust, I can almost hear the whispers of family traditions and festive gatherings. This recipe combines tender Yukon Gold potatoes, slathered in a luxurious creamy sauce infused with sharp cheddar cheese, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s pure indulgence. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a holiday celebration, these scalloped potatoes are the perfect sidekick, elevating any meal with their cheesy richness and satisfying flavor. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s not just comforting but also delightfully easy to prepare!
Why are scalloped potatoes a must-try?
Comforting and Indulgent: Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, offering a creamy texture and cheesy goodness that warms the heart.
Effortless Preparation: This dish is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet stunning enough for holiday gatherings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Flavor Explosion: The layered combination of Yukon Gold potatoes and sharp cheddar delivers a rich flavor profile that pairs beautifully with any main dish.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for busy schedules, you can prepare these scalloped potatoes in advance, allowing the flavors to meld before baking.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves a good cheesy side dish, and this recipe is sure to garner rave reviews at your table. Enjoy making your gatherings memorable with this show-stopping recipe!
Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients
• A delightful ensemble awaits you!
For the Creamy Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness essential for creating the roux; you can use olive oil if you prefer a dairy-free version.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce beautifully; substitute with gluten-free flour for a suitable alternative.
- Whole Milk – Provides a creamy base for the sauce; half-and-half can be swapped for a richer flavor.
- Vegetable Broth – Enhances flavor depth; chicken broth is a great alternative if not vegetarian.
- Garlic Cloves – Infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor; using fresh garlic will yield the best results.
- Fresh Thyme Leaves – Adds a lovely herbaceous note; feel free to use dried thyme, just reduce to 1 teaspoon.
- Sea Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust to your preference if using salted broth.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Offers a subtle kick; freshly ground is always best for flavor.
For the Potatoes
- Yukon Gold Potatoes – The star of the show, known for their creamy texture when baked; slice them ⅛-inch thick for even cooking.
- Medium Yellow Onion – Contributes a sweet, mellow flavor; it can be omitted for a simpler version.
For the Cheesy Finish
- Grated Cheddar Cheese – Essential for that creamy, cheesy taste; feel free to mix in Gruyère or a spicy cheese for a fun twist.
These scalloped potatoes are poised to become the highlight of your dining experience, bridging comfort and indulgence in every mouthful!
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or oil. This ensures your cheesy scalloped potatoes come out beautifully without sticking.
Melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Whisk in the flour for about 1 minute to create a roux, which forms the base of your velvety sauce.
Gradually add the whole milk and vegetable broth, whisking continuously until smooth. Incorporate the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper, cooking until the sauce lightly coats the back of a spoon (about 2-3 minutes).
Layer half of the sliced Yukon Gold potatoes and onions in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the top, followed by 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese, ensuring a cheesy delight in every bite.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, and sauce, then finish with another ½ cup of cheese sprinkled on the top for that irresistible golden crust.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, uncover and continue baking for an additional 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is gloriously browned.
Let sit for about 20 minutes at room temperature before slicing and serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully for the best bite!
Optional: Top with freshly chopped thyme for an aromatic garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These cheesy scalloped potatoes are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to simplify your cooking when time is tight. You can slice the Yukon Gold potatoes and prepare the creamy sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in the refrigerator to keep the potatoes from browning. Additionally, you can layer the potatoes and sauce in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time since they’re starting cold. Just remember to let the dish rest for 20 minutes after baking for the perfect serving! Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade comfort food with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
Create a delightful meal experience as you pair these creamy, cheesy wonders with complementary flavors and textures.
Glazed Ham: The sweet and savory profile of glazed ham beautifully harmonizes with the rich creaminess of scalloped potatoes, making for a festive feast.
Roasted Turkey: This classic pairing elevates any holiday gathering, as tender turkey and cheesy potatoes create a comforting and satisfying blend.
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with vibrant greens and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of scalloped potatoes for balance.
Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts, enhanced by garlic, pair wonderfully with the creamy, cheesy layers—adding depth to your meal.
Steamed Asparagus: Fresh asparagus offers a delightful crunch and brings a burst of color to your plate, making it an elegant sidekick.
Savory Meatloaf: A classic hearty meatloaf adds a hearty element that works perfectly with the indulgence of cheesy scalloped potatoes, creating a comforting dining experience.
Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits provide a delightful opportunity to scoop up those rich, cheesy layers, adding a homestyle touch to your meal.
Creamy Coleslaw: The tanginess of coleslaw cuts through the creaminess of the potatoes, creating a refreshing bite while adding crunch to every meal.
Apple Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm slice of apple pie. The warm spices and fruitiness offer a delightful contrast to the savory richness of scalloped potatoes, making the whole experience unforgettable.
Scalloped Potatoes Variations
Customize these scalloped potatoes to suit your taste and dietary preferences for an even more delightful experience!
- Dairy-Free: Swap whole milk and cheese with unsweetened almond milk and a vegan cheese alternative for a creamy yet dairy-free dish.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to ensure everyone at the table can enjoy this comforting dish without worry.
- Yellow Onion-Free: Omit the onions for a smoother texture and richer cheese flavor, focusing purely on the creamy goodness of the potatoes and sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a touch of heat to awaken your taste buds.
- Cheese Blend: Experiment with a mixture of Gouda and Monterey Jack cheeses for a unique flavor twist that melts beautifully.
- Herbaceous Infusion: Stir in a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or fresh rosemary to the sauce for a delightful herby twist that complements the potatoes perfectly.
- Protein-Packed: Layer in cooked crumbled sausage or chicken for a heartier dish that elevates the comfort of this classic recipe.
- Mushroom Medley: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy richness that adds depth to the creamy sauce, creating a gourmet touch.
Let your creativity shine through these variations as you craft the perfect batch of scalloped potatoes tailored just for you!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Uniform Slices: Ensure that your Yukon Gold potatoes are sliced evenly to guarantee consistent cooking and prevent any undercooked pieces.
Roux Perfection: Avoid boiling the sauce while cooking; keep the heat at medium and stir frequently to prevent splitting and achieve a silky texture.
Make Ahead: Prepare your cheesy scalloped potatoes up to a day in advance! Store the assembled dish in the refrigerator for flavors to meld; just reheat covered in the oven before serving.
Layer Wisely: To avoid a soggy bottom, it’s essential to layer appropriately. Start and end with potatoes and ensure equal distribution of sauce and cheese throughout.
Resting Time: Allow your scalloped potatoes to sit for about 20 minutes after baking. This resting time helps them set up, making for easier slicing and serving.
Pair these tips with your heartwarming recipe for scalloped potatoes, and you’ll create a dish that’s sure to impress!
How to Store and Freeze Scalloped Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to help preserve texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze scalloped potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil until heated through, about 25–30 minutes, or in the microwave until hot.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare scalloped potatoes a day before and store unbaked in the fridge. Bake them fresh before serving for a delightful comfort food experience.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for scalloped potatoes?
I highly recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture when baked. Slice them about ⅛-inch thick for even cooking, ensuring that each layer of potatoes contributes to the dish’s overall creaminess.
How do I store leftovers of scalloped potatoes?
Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing, as this helps to maintain their texture and prevents sogginess.
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
Absolutely! For freezing, place the scalloped potatoes in a freezer-safe container, ensuring they’re well wrapped with plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick for the scalloped potatoes?
If you find your sauce is thicker than desired, you can easily thin it out. Simply whisk in a bit more milk, or vegetable broth, and heat it gently until smooth. Maintaining a medium heat will prevent the sauce from splitting and keep it silky.
Are scalloped potatoes suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly! However, if you want to cater to dietary restrictions, you can easily swap out the broth for a vegetable-based option, and consider avoiding any cheese alternatives that contain animal rennet.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Certainly! You can assemble the scalloped potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover the unbaked dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When ready, simply remove the cover and bake as directed; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully—you’ll appreciate the convenience on busy holidays!
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes That Steal the Show at Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or oil.
- Melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Whisk in the flour for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually add the whole milk and vegetable broth, whisking continuously until smooth, then incorporate garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Layer half of the sliced Yukon Gold potatoes and onions in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the top, then add 1 cup of cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, and sauce, finishing with another ½ cup of cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and continue baking for an additional 35-40 minutes, until tender and browned.
- Let sit for about 20 minutes before slicing and serving.