There’s something undeniably comforting about Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes that just warms the soul. This classic side dish has been a staple at family gatherings and holiday feasts for as long as I can remember. I can still picture my grandma pulling a bubbling dish from the oven, the cheesy aroma filling the kitchen and making my mouth water. Trust me, when you dig into those creamy layers of potatoes, each bite is like a warm hug! It’s the perfect side to elevate any meal, and I can’t wait to share my favorite way to make it with you!
Ingredients List
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, plus extra for greasing the dish
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Make sure to get good quality cheese; it really makes a difference in flavor! And don’t skimp on the butter when greasing the dish—it helps everything brown beautifully.
How to Prepare Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Getting your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ready is a breeze, and I promise you’ll be in love with the process! First things first, let’s slice those potatoes. You want them thin—think about 1/8 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and become super tender. A mandoline slicer works wonders here, but a sharp knife will do the trick too. Just take your time to keep those slices uniform, so everything bakes perfectly.
Prepping the Potatoes
Start by peeling those lovely potatoes! Then, slice them evenly—this helps them cook at the same rate. If you want to keep them from browning while you work, toss them in a bowl of cold water until you’re ready.
Making the Cream Mixture
Now onto the creamy goodness! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until fragrant—oh, the smell is heavenly! Then, pour in the heavy cream and milk, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until it’s all combined and warmed through. This mixture is what makes your potatoes melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
Layering and Baking
Time to layer! Grease your baking dish with butter, then place half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese on top, followed by half of that creamy mixture. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cheese, and cream mixture. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top for that golden crust. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is bubbling and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before diving in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy layers that bring comfort to every bite
- Simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- Perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts
- Customizable! Add your favorite herbs or veggies for a twist
- Leftovers are just as delicious (if you have any!)
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about
Tips for Success
To make your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes truly shine, here are my go-to tips! First, always use fresh potatoes—Russets or Yukon Golds work best for that perfect texture. When it comes to cheese, opt for sharp cheddar for a flavor punch, and don’t hesitate to mix in some Gruyère or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess. Be patient and let the dish bake uncovered for the last 15 minutes to achieve that glorious golden crust. And remember, letting it cool for a few minutes before serving helps everything set up nicely, making it easier to scoop! Trust me, your guests will thank you!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes! Try swapping out the cheddar for a blend of cheeses like fontina or gouda for a richer flavor. You can also add layers of sautéed onions, spinach, or even mushrooms for some extra veggies. Feeling spicy? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a kick! The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your delicious Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. If you’re short on time, a quick zap in the microwave works too—just be careful not to overheat, or they might get a bit rubbery!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional info for a serving of these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Each cup packs about 350 calories, 25g of fat, 10g of protein, and 30g of carbs. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and measurements!
FAQ Section
Got questions about your Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes? I’ve got you covered! One common query is about ingredient substitutions—if you’re out of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or even milk, but the richness will take a hit. Looking for a lighter version? Try replacing some potatoes with thinly sliced zucchini! As for serving suggestions, these potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad. And yes, they’re great for breakfast too—just add a fried egg on top! Don’t hesitate to get creative; this dish is all about comfort and indulgence!
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!
For tips on the best cheese to use, you can visit Serious Eats for a comprehensive guide.
Additionally, if you’re interested in learning more about the health benefits of potatoes, check out Healthline for detailed information.
Print
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: 7 Comforting Layers of Goodness
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and cheesy dish made with thinly sliced potatoes.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish.
- Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add heavy cream and milk to the saucepan. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well.
- Pour half of the cream mixture over the potato and cheese layer.
- Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, cheese, and cream mixture.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 1 hour or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Notes
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, Potatoes, Cheese, Side Dish