SCALLOPED POTATOES Recipe: Comforting Cheesy Perfection

If you’re looking for a show-stopping, crave-worthy side dish, let me introduce you to SCALLOPED POTATOES! This recipe transforms simple ingredients into bubbling, cheesy perfection, with tender potato slices blanketed in a luscious cheddar sauce and crowned with a golden top. There’s just something magical about the way these modest staples come together to create a dish that feels both nostalgic and worthy of any dinner party—from Sunday suppers to holiday tables.

SCALLOPED POTATOES Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for SCALLOPED POTATOES is reassuringly simple, yet each component plays an essential role. Together, these items create a dish with irresistible creaminess, rich flavor, and plenty of comfort in every bite. Here’s what you’ll need, along with little tips for putting them to best use:

Potatoes: Thinly sliced russet or Yukon gold potatoes provide the perfect creamy texture as they bake—make sure to cut them evenly for even cooking.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts into a velvety sauce and adds a bold, tangy flavor that’s the signature of classic scalloped potatoes.
Milk: Whole milk is best for a rich, creamy sauce—warming it slightly before adding helps prevent lumps.
Butter: It gives the sauce a beautiful depth and a silky finish; unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness.
All-Purpose Flour: Works as a thickener for the cheese sauce, creating that signature luscious texture.
Salt: Just the right amount elevates all the other flavors—don’t skip the seasoning steps!
Black Pepper: Adds a gentle pop of heat and complexity without being overwhelming.
Garlic Powder: A pinch of this quietly ties the flavors together and offers a subtle savory note you’ll miss if you leave it out.

How to Make SCALLOPED POTATOES

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

Before you dive into assembling your layers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and give your 9×13-inch baking dish a generous coating of butter or nonstick spray. A well-greased dish makes serving a breeze and helps those irresistible edges develop a little golden crispness.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s just foamy, then whisk in the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook this mixture for a minute or two to eliminate that raw flour flavor, whisking constantly for a smooth base. Gradually add the milk, and keep whisking as the mixture begins to thicken into a silky sauce. Once thickened, stir in one cup of cheddar cheese and let it melt completely to create a cheesy, decadent sauce.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce

Arrange half of your thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer across the bottom of the baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over this first layer, spreading gently with a spatula so every slice gets coated. Now, repeat: layer on the remaining potatoes, then cover with the rest of the creamy cheese sauce.

Step 4: Add the Final Touch of Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese right over the top, ensuring even coverage from edge to edge. This last flourish guarantees that beautiful, bubbling, golden finish that makes SCALLOPED POTATOES so irresistible.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap in steam, and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes. By the end, the potatoes should be perfectly fork-tender, and the top should have developed a caramelized, cheesy crust. Let the dish rest for at least 10 minutes before serving so the sauce can settle and slices hold together beautifully.

How to Serve SCALLOPED POTATOES

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley can brighten up your SCALLOPED POTATOES with vibrant color and a mild, oniony flavor. For an extra special touch, try a dusting of paprika or even crispy bacon bits for added crunch and flavor. Little additions like these can make your dish look restaurant-worthy in just seconds!

Side Dishes

SCALLOPED POTATOES play well with all sorts of main dishes. They’re classic alongside glazed ham, roasted chicken, or a grilled steak, but they can also be the star of a cozy vegetarian spread. Complement with a crisp green salad, roasted carrots, or sautéed greens to balance the rich, creamy potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

For individual servings, bake the potato casserole in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a charming presentation. If you’re prepping ahead for a potluck, scoop generous portions into muffin tins, bake, and serve as neat, hand-held stacks. You can even add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions between the potato layers for a gourmet twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your SCALLOPED POTATOES have completely cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to four days, and the flavors often deepen and meld even more after sitting overnight.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze SCALLOPED POTATOES, making them a brilliant make-ahead option. Let the baked casserole cool thoroughly, then wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap or portion into freezer-safe containers. When stored properly, they’ll stay delicious for up to three months.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the potatoes with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20–25 minutes. For a crisper top, remove the foil for the last few minutes. You can also microwave individual servings on medium power, checking frequently to ensure the sauce doesn’t separate.

FAQs

Can I make SCALLOPED POTATOES ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish and bake it fully, then let it cool and refrigerate. Just reheat before serving—this actually makes it an even more convenient option for busy holidays or gatherings.

Which potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes?

Both russet and Yukon gold potatoes work wonderfully for SCALLOPED POTATOES. Russets deliver a fluffier, softer texture, while Yukon golds hold their shape a touch better and have a naturally buttery flavor.

Can I add other cheeses?

Yes! While cheddar is classic, feel free to get creative by mixing in Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a touch of Parmesan for extra depth. Just make sure to keep cheddar as the base for that signature taste.

How do I keep my potato slices from discoloring?

If you prep your potatoes ahead, submerge the slices in cold water to prevent browning. Drain and pat dry thoroughly before layering into the casserole so the sauce isn’t diluted.

Why are my scalloped potatoes not getting tender?

Thickness is key—if your potato slices are too thick, they can stay firm even after a long bake. Try using a mandoline for consistently thin slices, and always make sure your oven is properly preheated.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try these SCALLOPED POTATOES—there’s just something so comforting and satisfying about every forkful. Whether you serve them at a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this recipe brings a touch of warmth and tradition to any table. Give them a go, and don’t be surprised if they become your family’s new favorite side!