Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a comforting and delicious side dish that’s perfect for any meal. The layers of tender potatoes and creamy cheese sauce create a rich flavor that everyone will love. This dish is not only simple to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks. Plus, with the creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s hard to resist seconds!

How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Ingredients

• 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8″ (3 mm) thick
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy/whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the oven rack in the middle to ensure even baking.
2. Grate the cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. You can use a mandoline slicer for uniformity.
3. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture warm up and come to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, then remove from heat.
4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange half of the potato slices evenly on the bottom, overlapping slightly. Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle half of each cheese (cheddar and parmesan) on top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cream sauce, and cheeses, finishing with a cheese layer on top.
5. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 25-35 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the potatoes slides in easily with little resistance. Watch closely towards the end to avoid overcooking.
7. Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken slightly and flavors meld.

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

These scalloped potatoes are perfect on their own or served alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a simple salad. They make a wonderful addition to holiday meals and are sure to impress your guests. Just scoop out a serving and enjoy!

How to Store Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Use a mandoline slicer for even potato thickness. This helps ensure that the potatoes cook evenly.
• Feel free to mix different types of cheese for added flavor. Gouda or mozzarella could be great additions!
• To make it a bit healthier, you can substitute half of the cream with milk.

Variation

You can add cooked bacon or ham between the layers for a heartier version of this dish. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also be sprinkled on for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes, but thaw them and pat them dry before use for the best results.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you cook it.

Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze scalloped potatoes, though the texture may change slightly when reheated. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Storing them in individual portions can make reheating easier.