Creamy cheesy scalloped potatoes made for one, baked with Yukon Gold potatoes, rich Cheddar cheese, and a smooth milk-based sauce. This easy single-serving potato recipe is perfect as a side dish for weeknight dinners or a cozy meal at home.

Ingredients:

1 medium Yukon Gold potato, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
1 tablespoon salted butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
½ cup milk
½ cup + 2 tablespoons shredded Cheddar cheese
⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
⅛ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

Instructions:

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the potatoes: Arrange the potato slices in a buttered 5×5-inch baking dish (or a similarly sized dish) and set aside.
Make the roux: In a 1-quart saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and stir continuously for 2 minutes to form a smooth paste.
Create the cheese sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes.
Add cheese and seasonings: Stir in ½ cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper, mixing until the cheese melts completely.
Assemble for baking: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potato slices. Place the baking dish on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes.
Add final cheese layer: Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of Cheddar cheese on top, and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This single-serving scalloped potato dish is creamy, cheesy, and comforting. Perfect for a quick dinner or side dish, it combines tender potatoes with a rich, cheesy sauce for a satisfying, fuss-free meal.

Tips

Slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
Use a baking sheet under the dish to catch any bubbling cheese or sauce.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to thicken the sauce slightly.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap Cheddar cheese with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
Use half-and-half or cream instead of milk for a richer sauce.
Add cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions for extra flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble the potatoes and sauce, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?
A: Yukon Gold is best for creaminess, but Russet or red potatoes work well too.

Q: Can this recipe be doubled?
A: Yes, just use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time slightly.

Serving

Serve hot as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables. This single-serving portion is perfect for individual meals.

Suggestions

Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for added color and flavor.
Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
For a crispier top, broil the final cheese layer for 1–2 minutes before serving.