This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Made with creamy cheese sauce, tender sliced potatoes, and a rich blend of sharp cheddar cheese, this dish is the perfect side for holiday meals or family dinners. Baked to perfection and broiled for a golden, bubbly top, these potatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy dinner at home, these cheesy scalloped potatoes will complement any main dish. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, this recipe is a must-try for potato lovers!

Ingredients:

3 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced (1/8 inch thick) (Russet or Yukon Gold)
¼ cup butter
¼ cup flour
2 cups milk (2% or whole milk)
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
1 tbsp minced garlic
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and minced garlic. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the milk, whisking constantly until smooth and well combined. Stir in salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
Add Cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Layer the Potatoes: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 55-70 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Broil for a Golden Top: Switch the oven to broil and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Cool and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are creamy, flavorful, and packed with cheese! The combination of tender sliced potatoes, garlic, and a rich cheese sauce makes for a comforting side dish that everyone will love. It’s the perfect addition to holiday meals, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious, indulgent side dish.

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Add More Cheese: You can use a mix of cheeses for extra flavor, such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan.
Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk (such as oat or almond milk) and a vegan cheese alternative.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Herb Variations: Try adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the cheese sauce for added flavor.
Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat in the oven before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes! Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, but Russet potatoes also work well. Just keep in mind that Russets may be a bit starchier and may require a longer baking time.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day before, store it in the fridge, and bake it the next day. If you’re making it ahead, skip the broiling step until you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them. Allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to serve, bake from frozen at 350°F for 60-75 minutes, or until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

With Roasted Meat: Serve these cheesy potatoes alongside roast beef, roast chicken, or grilled pork chops for a hearty and delicious meal.
Perfect for Holidays: They are an excellent choice for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinners. They complement turkey, ham, and other holiday favorites.
Pair with a Salad: Balance out the richness of the potatoes with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation—easy to make and full of creamy, cheesy goodness!