Imagine creamy layers of potatoes, drenched in a gooey cheese sauce that tantalizes your taste buds with every forkful. Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the kind of comfort food that can turn any mundane Tuesday into a festive feast. The aroma wafting through the kitchen is enough to make even the most stubborn dieter abandon their resolve and dive into this cheesy goodness.
Growing up, my family had an unspoken rule: no holiday table was complete without cheesy scalloped potatoes. Whether it was Thanksgiving or a casual Sunday dinner, these decadent spuds stole the show. They are rich, indulgent, and perfect for sharing—though I won’t judge if you want to keep them all for yourself!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy scalloped potatoes are incredibly easy to prepare, saving you time without sacrificing flavor
- The rich, creamy texture pairs beautifully with any main dish
- Their golden-brown crust creates an eye-catching visual appeal on your table
- Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, they fit any occasion seamlessly
Every time I serve these cheesy scalloped potatoes, I get requests for seconds and thirds. Once at a gathering, my friend exclaimed she could eat a whole pan by herself!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Russet Potatoes: Opt for starchy russets as they create a fluffy texture when baked.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness; don’t skimp on quality here—it makes all the difference.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese for maximum meltiness and flavor.
Garlic Powder: A staple that boosts savoriness without overwhelming the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to your taste preference.
Butter: For greasing the baking dish and adding extra richness to the sauce.
Fresh Thyme (optional): A sprinkle of thyme adds a fragrant herbal note that brightens up the creamy flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking when you finally pop those cheesy beauties inside.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter. This prevents sticking and adds a bit more flavor to your dish.
Slice Those Potatoes!: Thinly slice your russet potatoes using a mandoline or sharp knife—about 1/8 inch thick. Aim for uniform slices; this ensures even cooking.
Create the Cream Mixture: In a bowl, mix heavy cream with garlic powder, salt, and pepper until combined. The scent should remind you of cozy nights spent by the fireplace.
Layer It Up!: Begin layering sliced potatoes in your greased baking dish. Pour some cream mixture over each layer before adding sharp cheddar cheese on top—repeat until all ingredients are used up.
Bake to Perfection!: Cover your dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 15-20 minutes to allow that glorious golden crust to form on top.
Your cheesy scalloped potatoes will emerge from the oven bubbling and oozing with cheesy goodness—pure bliss! Let them cool slightly before serving so you don’t burn your tongue (trust me).
Now that you’ve mastered this comforting classic, you’ll find countless reasons to whip up cheesy scalloped potatoes. Whether it’s family gatherings or simply treating yourself after a long day at work, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table!
You Must Know
- Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a creamy, cheesy delight that elevate any meal
- Pay attention to layering for even cooking and rich flavor
- The aroma of garlic and cheese will have everyone rushing to the table before dinner is even served!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To ensure your cheesy scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly, slice the potatoes evenly for consistent cooking. Layer them with cheese and sauce, then bake until golden brown and bubbly. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your cheesy scalloped potatoes by adding cooked bacon or sautéed onions. You can also swap in different cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for a unique twist. Get creative!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cheesy scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring they stay creamy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect cheesy scalloped potatoes, always use starchy potatoes like Russets for creaminess
- Let them rest after baking; this allows flavors to meld beautifully
- And don’t skimp on cheese—more is always better!
I remember the first time I made cheesy scalloped potatoes for a family gathering. Everyone raved about how creamy and delicious they were, which made me feel like a culinary rock star.
FAQ
What type of potato is best for cheesy scalloped potatoes?
Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture and creamy flavor when baked.
Can I make cheesy scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day before and bake just before serving for convenience.
How do I prevent my scalloped potatoes from becoming watery?
Ensure you slice the potatoes evenly and don’t overdo it with the cream mixture to maintain texture.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, featuring layers of tender russet potatoes enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, they create an irresistible dish that’s ideal for any occasion—be it a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner. With each forkful, you’ll enjoy a delightful combination of flavors that will leave you craving more. This recipe is not only simple but also allows for creativity!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 3 tbsp butter (for greasing)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Thinly slice the russet potatoes (about 1/8 inch thick).
- In a bowl, mix heavy cream with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Layer the sliced potatoes in the greased dish, pouring some cream mixture over each layer and topping with cheddar cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes; remove foil for the last 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
