Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are made for anyone who loves a rich, creamy potato dish with plenty of melted cheese. Thick slices of tender potatoes are covered in a smooth cream sauce and baked until everything becomes warm, bubbly, and irresistibly cheesy. It’s a comforting side dish that fits beautifully alongside roasted meats, holiday dinners, or everyday family meals.

The secret to a satisfying texture is getting the potato slices just right. A mandoline slicer makes it easier to achieve consistent thickness, helping the potatoes cook evenly. Once arranged in the baking dish, they’re generously coated with the creamy cheese sauce so every layer gets plenty of flavor.

Which Potatoes Work Best?

Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes are both excellent choices for scalloped potatoes. Their starch content helps give the sauce a thicker consistency while allowing the slices to become soft and tender during baking. Waxy varieties are less suitable because they may not soften as well.

For consistent results, aim for slices between 1/8 and 1/4 inch thick. Keeping them relatively uniform prevents some pieces from becoming overcooked while others remain firm. A mandoline is particularly useful for this step, although a sharp knife works too.

Can You Prepare Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! This dish can be assembled a day before serving, which is especially helpful when planning a holiday meal. Prepare the potatoes and cheese sauce as directed, then arrange everything in the baking dish without putting it in the oven.

Cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to cook, place it directly into the oven from the refrigerator. Allow a few additional minutes of baking time if needed to ensure the potatoes become completely tender and the cheese sauce is hot and bubbly.

A Creamy Side Dish for Any Occasion

With its tender potato layers and generous cheese sauce, this recipe is a wonderful addition to a comforting dinner spread. It can be prepared ahead to make entertaining easier, while its rich, cheesy texture makes it a favorite for special gatherings.

Serve these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes alongside your favorite main course for a satisfying homemade side that brings plenty of creamy goodness to the table.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are made for anyone who loves a rich, creamy potato dish with plenty of melted cheese. Thick slices of tender potatoes are covered in a smooth cream sauce and baked until everything becomes warm, bubbly, and irresistibly cheesy.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (about 2 pounds)
• 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
• 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly coat an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Layer the potatoes and onions in the prepared dish, alternating between the two as you arrange them.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and salt, whisking constantly for about 1 minute. Gradually stir in the milk and continue cooking until the mixture thickens.
4. Add all the cheese at once and stir until completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth, about 30–60 seconds.
5. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 85–90 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
7. For a golden, crispy topping, remove the foil and switch the oven to broil once the potatoes are fully cooked. Broil until the top is nicely browned.
8. Finish with salt and pepper to taste, then serve.

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