![To make cheesy scalloped potatoes, you will need: - 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup whole milk - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 3 tablespoons butter - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) These ingredients create the rich and creamy flavors that make this dish so comforting. The key to cheesy scalloped potatoes lies in the cheese. I use sharp cheddar for its bold taste. The creamy mixture of milk and heavy cream adds richness. The butter, onion, and garlic give depth. Thyme and smoked paprika add layers of flavor. Each bite should be a balance of creaminess and cheesy goodness. You can easily make this dish vegan. Use plant-based cheese and cream. Almond or oat milk works well instead of dairy milk. For butter, use vegan butter or coconut oil. These swaps keep the dish creamy while meeting dietary needs. The flavors may differ slightly, but the dish remains delicious. Feel free to experiment until you find your perfect blend. To make your cheesy scalloped potatoes shine, start with fresh and firm russet potatoes. Thinly slice them. A sharp knife or mandoline works best. For even cooking, try to keep all slices the same thickness. Gather your ingredients ahead of time. This way, you can work smoothly and efficiently. 1. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter. 2. Next, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent, which takes about five minutes. 3. Pour in the whole milk and heavy cream. Stir to mix well. Add the dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat this mixture until it is just warm. 4. Now, start layering your potatoes. Place them in the greased baking dish, overlapping slightly. Pour a thin layer of the cream mixture over the potatoes. Then, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top. 5. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheese. Finish off with a generous layer of cheese on top. 6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake it in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. 7. After 40 minutes, remove the foil. Continue baking for another 20-30 minutes. You want the potatoes to be tender and the cheese to be bubbling and golden brown. 8. Once done, let the dish cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish it with fresh parsley for added color and flavor. Serve cheesy scalloped potatoes hot. They pair well with roasted meats or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy them on their own as a hearty side dish. If you want to impress, sprinkle extra cheese or herbs on top right before serving. For the full recipe, check out the details above. To get creamy potatoes, slice them thin. Use a sharp knife or a mandolin. Thin slices cook evenly. Soak the potatoes in water for a bit to remove starch. This helps with creaminess. When you layer them, pour the cream mixture slowly. Let it seep in. Cover the dish with foil at first, so the steam helps cook the potatoes. Remove the foil later to brown the cheese. Sharp cheddar is the star of cheesy scalloped potatoes. It melts well and has a strong taste. You can mix in Gruyère for a nutty flavor. Fontina adds creaminess, while mozzarella gives a gooey texture. Try using a mix of these cheeses for depth. Just make sure to use about 2 cups of cheese total. Always shred your cheese fresh for the best melt. One big mistake is not seasoning enough. Always add salt and pepper to the cream mix. Another error is overcooking the potatoes. They should be tender but not mushy. Lastly, avoid skipping the resting time. Let the dish cool for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut. For the full recipe, check the details above. {{image_2}} You can make cheesy scalloped potatoes even tastier by adding bacon or ham. Cook about 6 slices of bacon until crispy. Chop it into small pieces. If you prefer ham, use about 1 cup of diced ham. Layer these meaty bits between the potatoes and cheese. This addition brings a smoky flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce. Fresh herbs can brighten up your cheesy scalloped potatoes. Try adding fresh rosemary or basil. Chop about 1 tablespoon of either herb and mix it into the cream sauce. You can also sprinkle some on the top before baking. This adds a pop of color and fresh taste. Other good options include parsley or chives, which give a mild flavor. If you want to make your dish vegetarian, consider adding spinach or mushrooms. For spinach, use about 2 cups of fresh leaves. Sauté them briefly until they wilt, then layer them between the potatoes. For mushrooms, slice about 8 ounces and cook until soft. This will add a rich, earthy flavor that works well with the cheese. You can find these ideas in the Full Recipe, which has more ways to customize your dish. After enjoying your cheesy scalloped potatoes, let them cool down. Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about three to four days. Make sure to cover the dish tightly to keep moisture in. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the potatoes in an oven-safe dish. Add a splash of milk or cream to keep them moist. Cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for faster results, but the oven gives a better texture. You can freeze cheesy scalloped potatoes for longer storage. First, let them cool completely. Then, portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags. Remove as much air as possible. They can last up to two months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed. This helps maintain the creamy texture. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. I prefer using russet potatoes for scalloped potatoes. They have a high starch content. This gives the dish a creamy texture. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes. They add a buttery flavor and hold up well. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes. They won’t soften as nicely in the oven. Yes, you can prepare cheesy scalloped potatoes ahead of time. Assemble the dish up to the baking step. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It can stay fresh for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. To make cheesy scalloped potatoes gluten-free, simply replace the flour with cornstarch. You can also use gluten-free cream. Most heavy creams are naturally gluten-free. Always check the labels to be sure. This way, you can enjoy a delicious dish without any gluten concerns. In this article, we covered key ingredients for cheesy scalloped potatoes. You learned about essential ingredients, vegan options, and detailed cooking tips. I shared ways to make your dish creamy and the best cheese blends for taste. Remember, adding bacon or fresh herbs can enhance flavor, while proper storage keeps leftovers tasty. Embrace these ideas, avoid common mistakes, and enjoy your cheesy creation!](https://southerndishes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/24c77c5b-974b-44f9-a19f-81fa05c9efe1-250x250.webp)
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Indulge in the cheesy comfort of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any gathering! This creamy, cheesy delight features layers of tender russet potatoes, sharp cheddar, and a savory blend of spices. With easy-to-follow steps, you'll create a luscious side dish that pairs well with any meal.