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Cheesy scalloped potatoes baked golden brown in a casserole dish

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe | Classic Comfort Food

Make cheesy scalloped potatoes with this easy recipe. Tender potato slices layered with creamy cheese sauce and baked golden brown. A comforting side dish perfect for holidays or family meals.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American / Comfort Food, French-inspired, Holiday Classics
Servings 8
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Mandoline or sharp knife for slicing
  • Saucepan (for sauce)
  • 9×13” baking dish
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Ingredients
  

For Potatoes

  • 3 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 2 tbsp butter

For Sauce

  • 2 cups milk or cream
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp flour (for thickening)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or gruyère)

Optional Flavor Boosters

  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • ½ cup cooked bacon bits
  • Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley)
  • Sliced jalapeños for spice

Instructions
 

  • Slice Potatoes – Cut into thin, even rounds (about ⅛ inch).
  • Make Sauce – In a saucepan, melt butter. Add onion and garlic, cook until fragrant. Stir in flour, then whisk in milk or cream. Simmer until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  • Layer Dish – Grease baking dish. Arrange potatoes in layers, spoon sauce over each layer. Repeat until all ingredients are used. Top with extra cheese.
  • Bake – Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 20–30 minutes until potatoes are tender and top is golden.
  • Rest & Serve – Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble ahead, refrigerate overnight, and bake before serving.
  • Variations: Try bacon and cheddar, Gruyère with nutmeg, or jalapeño for spice.
  • Serving Idea: Pair with roast beef, ham, or turkey.
  • Storage: Keeps 3–4 days in fridge; baked portions freeze up to 2 months.
  • Holiday Tip: Double the recipe for large gatherings—it’s always the first dish to disappear!
Keyword baked cheesy potatoes, cheesy scalloped potatoes, comfort food potatoes, creamy potato bake, Holiday side dish, Potato gratin