Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any table. With their rich, creamy texture and layers of cheesy goodness, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or a cozy weeknight dinner. The combination of tender potatoes, garlic, and melted cheddar cheese makes these scalloped potatoes irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a festive occasion or as a delicious side for everyday meals, their delightful flavor and creamy sauce will surely make them a favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Comfort Food: Enjoy the rich taste of garlic and cheddar that elevates your meal.
Easy to Prepare: This recipe simplifies the cooking process, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair with meats, serve at gatherings, or enjoy as a standalone dish.
Make Ahead Option: Easily prepare in advance and bake when ready to serve.
Customizable Ingredients: Add your favorite proteins or herbs to tailor the dish to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

When making Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, having the right tools can streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking dish
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Saucepan
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and proper layering of your scalloped potatoes.
Sharp knife: Facilitates precise slicing of potatoes for uniform cooking.
Saucepan: Ideal for making the creamy cheese sauce without burning.

Ingredients

To create this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:

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)

1 tablespoon chives, chopped (optional)

How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by peeling the potatoes if desired. Slice them evenly into ⅛ to ¼-inch thick rounds. This ensures they cook uniformly.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the chopped onions and sauté for approximately 3 minutes until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and thyme; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle in flour while stirring continuously to combine well.
Gradually pour in heavy cream while stirring consistently to avoid lumps.
Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and cayenne if using.
Mix in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared dish.
Pour half of the cheese sauce over this potato layer.
Sprinkle half of the remaining shredded cheese on top.
Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, cheese sauce, and cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Potatoes

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for about 40 minutes.
Remove foil, add remaining cheese on top, then bake uncovered for another 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Let your Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. Consider garnishing with additional chives or parsley for an extra touch!

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. They make an excellent side for a variety of main courses, bringing warmth and comfort to the table.

Pair with Protein

Roast Chicken: The creamy potatoes complement the juicy flavors of roasted chicken beautifully.
Grilled Steak: A hearty steak pairs perfectly with the rich cheese sauce, creating a satisfying meal.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

Thanksgiving Turkey: Add these scalloped potatoes as a delicious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Christmas Ham: Their cheesy goodness makes them an ideal side dish alongside honey-glazed ham.

For Casual Weeknight Dinners

Barbecue Ribs: The creaminess balances the smoky flavors of barbecue, making every bite delightful.
Baked Salmon: Enjoy the contrast of textures between flaky fish and creamy potatoes for a comforting dinner.

How to Perfect Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

To achieve the best results with your Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

Use uniform slices: Make sure your potato slices are evenly cut to ensure they cook uniformly.
Choose quality cheese: Opt for fresh cheddar cheese; it melts better and enhances the flavor significantly.
Layering is key: Alternate layers of potatoes and cheese sauce for maximum flavor infusion throughout the dish.
Let it rest before serving: Allow the dish to cool slightly after baking; this helps the layers set up nicely for serving.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

When serving Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, consider adding complementary side dishes that enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce.
Steamed Broccoli: This bright green vegetable adds color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the potatoes.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to creamy scalloped potatoes.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots add a lovely touch alongside savory scalloped potatoes.
Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn brings sweetness and crunch, making it a delightful pairing with this cheesy dish.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers can be filled with grains or meats, offering a hearty option next to your scalloped potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

Skipping the slicing uniformity – If your potato slices are uneven, they will cook at different rates. Aim for ⅛ to ¼-inch thickness for even cooking.
Neglecting to season the layers – Failing to season each layer of potatoes can lead to bland results. Always sprinkle salt and pepper between layers for flavor.
Rushing the cheese sauce – Cooking the cheese sauce too quickly can cause it to become lumpy. Stir over medium heat and add cheese gradually for a smooth texture.
Not covering during baking – If you bake uncovered from the start, the top may burn before the potatoes are tender. Cover with foil initially for even cooking.
Skipping the resting time – Cutting into the dish right after baking can cause it to fall apart. Let it cool for a few minutes so it sets properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty foil.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
Stovetop – Reheat on low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of cheese in Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

You can definitely experiment with different cheeses! Gruyère, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can add unique flavors.

How do I make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend when making the cheese sauce.

What can I serve with Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

This dish pairs well with roasted meats, green salads, or grilled vegetables. It’s a versatile side that complements many main courses.

Can I prepare Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble your dish up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are an indulgent comfort food that everyone will love. This dish not only shines on holiday tables but also complements everyday meals beautifully. Feel free to customize it by adding proteins like bacon or ham or experimenting with different herbs!

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Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, the ultimate comfort food that will warm your heart and elevate any meal.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
Thinly slice potatoes (about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick) and set aside.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter; add onions and sauté until softened (about 3 minutes). Stir in garlic and thyme.
Sprinkle in flour and gradually whisk in heavy cream until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne if desired. Stir in cheese until melted.
Layer half of the potatoes in the baking dish, followed by half the sauce and half the cheese. Repeat layers.
Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden brown.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American