Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

The Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food. This dish features layers of tender potatoes combined with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, making it perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or a cozy weeknight dinner. Its delightful garlicky flavor and cheesy goodness set it apart, ensuring that every bite is satisfying and memorable.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Potatoes
• For the Cheese Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
• Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
• Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
• Step 3: Assemble the Dish
• Step 4: Bake the Potatoes
• Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
• How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
• With Grilled Meat
• As a Standalone Dish
• At Holiday Gatherings
• How to Perfect Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
• Best Side Dishes for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
• Reheating Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make my Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes creamier?
• Can I add vegetables to Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
• What type of cheese works best for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
• Can I prepare Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?
• How long do Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes last in the fridge?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, this dish is easy to make, even for beginners.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, thyme, and cheddar cheese creates a deliciously rich taste.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with any main course—whether it’s meat or vegetarian—for a complete meal.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and bake just before serving for added convenience.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add bacon or swap out cheeses to suit your family’s preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, having the right tools on hand can make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-sized baking dish ensures even cooking and allows all the layers to meld perfectly.
• Saucepan: Essential for making the cheese sauce without burning, ensuring a smooth consistency.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the potatoes easier and safer.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly when preparing the cheese sauce.

Ingredients

For this Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe, you will need:

For the Potatoes

• 2 ½ pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 40 oz)
• 3 tablespoons butter (1.5 oz)
• ½ onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Cheese Sauce

• 2 ½ cups heavy cream (20 oz)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (1.5 oz)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated (from a 12 oz block)

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon chives, chopped (optional)

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How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel the potatoes if desired and slice them evenly to ⅛ to ¼-inch thick for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and thyme; cook for an additional minute.
4. Sprinkle in flour and stir until well combined.
5. Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and cayenne pepper if using.
7. Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your baking dish.
2. Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of your baking dish.
3. Pour half of the cheese sauce over this layer of potatoes.
4. Sprinkle half of the remaining cheese on top.
5. Repeat these layers with the rest of the potatoes, cheese sauce, and cheese on top.
6. Optionally garnish with chopped chives or parsley.

Step 4: Bake the Potatoes

1. Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
2. After that time, remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

1. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with extra chives or parsley if desired for added flavor.

This recipe not only brings comfort but also brings everyone together around the table! Enjoy your Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes!

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes make a delightful addition to any meal. Their creamy, cheesy goodness pairs well with various dishes and can elevate your dining experience.

With Grilled Meat

• Steaks: The rich flavors of scalloped potatoes complement the savory taste of grilled steaks perfectly.
• Chicken: Serve alongside grilled or roasted chicken for a comforting meal that satisfies.

As a Standalone Dish

• Garnished with Herbs: Simply top your scalloped potatoes with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for an elegant touch.
• With a Green Salad: Pair them with a crisp green salad to add freshness and balance the creaminess.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Thanksgiving Dinner: These potatoes are a crowd-pleaser and can be part of your Thanksgiving feast.
• Christmas Celebrations: Their rich texture makes them perfect for holiday dinners, bringing warmth to your table.

How to Perfect Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Achieving the perfect Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and high-quality cheese will enhance flavor and texture.
• Slice Evenly: Ensure potato slices are uniform for even cooking and consistent layering.
• Layer Properly: Alternate layers of potatoes and cheese sauce for maximum flavor distribution.
• Bake Covered First: Covering the dish while baking helps retain moisture, making the potatoes tender.
• Let Sit Before Serving: Allowing your dish to rest makes it easier to serve and enhances the overall flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

These Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes pair wonderfully with various side dishes, creating a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted seasonal vegetables add color and health benefits to your plate.
2. Garlic Bread: A crunchy side of garlic bread complements the creamy potatoes beautifully.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of scalloped potatoes.
4. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds provide a nutty crunch that balances the dish.
5. Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce dressed in Caesar dressing contrasts well with the creamy texture of the scalloped potatoes.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of flavor and is easy to prepare alongside any main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, a few common mistakes can impact the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure success:

• Skipping the Cheese Sauce: This is crucial for flavor and creaminess. Always prepare a rich cheese sauce to enhance the potatoes.
• Uneven Potato Slices: Slicing potatoes unevenly can lead to uneven cooking. Use a mandoline for consistent thickness.
• Not Using Enough Seasoning: Under-seasoned potatoes can taste bland. Make sure to season each layer with salt and pepper.
• Overcrowding the Baking Dish: Packing too many potatoes into the dish may prevent even cooking. Layer them properly for best results.
• Not Allowing to Rest: Cutting into the potatoes right away can make them mushy. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes creamier?

You can make your Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes creamier by using half heavy cream and half whole milk.

Can I add vegetables to Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can layer in some cooked broccoli or spinach with the potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.

What type of cheese works best for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can also experiment with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

Can I prepare Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and then bake it when ready to serve.

How long do Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes last in the fridge?

They typically last about 4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful comfort food that pairs well with any meal. Their creamy texture and cheesy flavor make them a crowd-pleaser at gatherings or family dinners. Feel free to customize by adding proteins like bacon or ham, or try different cheeses for unique variations!

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