Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food Side Dish

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There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a dish that combines velvety cream, melted cheese, and tender potatoes, all baked into one irresistible casserole. If you’re searching for that perfect comfort food side dish to elevate your meal, your quest ends here. This Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is your go-to classic, with layers of savory flavor and silky texture that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday feast, this recipe delivers that nostalgic, homestyle goodness every time.

Why This Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Is a Must-Try

You might wonder what makes this scalloped potatoes recipe stand out from countless others. The answer lies in the careful balance of rich ingredients and simple techniques that come together to create a masterpiece of taste and texture.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

• Layered Cheese Flavor: Combining nutty Gruyere with sharp cheddar creates a complex flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The Gruyere melts smoothly into the sauce, while the cheddar crisps on top to golden perfection.
• Perfect Creaminess: A mix of heavy cream and whole milk provides just the right richness, enveloping each slice of potato without being too heavy.
• Fresh Aromatics: Sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh thyme add depth and brightness, elevating the dish beyond ordinary scalloped potatoes.
• Tender Potatoes: Choosing Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes sliced thinly ensures even cooking and a creamy bite, without the mushiness.

Best of all? You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to pull this off. Follow this recipe step-by-step, and you’ll have a stunning side dish that’s worthy of any occasion.

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Ingredients for Perfect Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Before diving into the cooking, make sure you have everything on hand. Quality ingredients make a world of difference, so aim for fresh produce and good cheese.

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Salted butter	3 tablespoons	For sautéing onions
Yellow onion	1, thinly sliced	Adds sweetness and depth
Kosher salt	To taste	Seasoning
Black pepper	To taste	Seasoning
Garlic clove	1, chopped	Flavor enhancer
Fresh thyme	1 tablespoon, chopped	Aromatic herb
Heavy cream	2 cups	Base of creamy sauce
Whole milk	1 cup	Adds creaminess
Cayenne pepper	1 pinch	Adds subtle heat
Gruyere cheese, shredded	3/4 cup	Rich, nutty cheese
Cheddar cheese, shredded	3/4 cup	Sharp, melty topping
Russet or Yukon gold potatoes	6, sliced 1/8-inch thick	Tender, perfect for layering

Make sure your potatoes are evenly sliced for uniform cooking. Using a mandoline slicer here can be a real time-saver and helps maintain consistent thickness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cooking this dish is an enjoyable process — the enticing aromas and creamy textures building with each step will keep you excited.

1. Preheat Your Oven to 350°F (175°C)

Set your oven early to ensure it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. This temperature helps gently cook the potatoes without drying out the cream.

2. Sauté the Onions in Butter

Melt the butter over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Toss in the thinly sliced onions and stir occasionally. You’ll want to cook them for about 10 minutes until they’re soft and just beginning to caramelize. This slow browning unlocks their natural sweetness, which will balance the richness of the cheese sauce.

3. Add Garlic, Thyme, Salt, and Pepper

Once the onions are softened, stir in the chopped garlic and fresh thyme. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then remove from heat.

4. Butter Your Casserole Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking and add an extra layer of richness to the finished dish.

5. Prepare the Cream Mixture

In a large measuring cup or bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, a pinch of cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir in the shredded Gruyere cheese — it will start melting into the warm liquid, enriching the sauce.

6. Layer Your Dish

Here’s where the magic happens. Pour one-third of the cream mixture into the bottom of your casserole dish. Then layer one-third of your potato slices over the cream, followed by half of the sautéed onions. Repeat these layers once more: cream, potatoes, onions. Finish with the last third of potatoes and pour the remaining cream mixture evenly over the top, making sure every potato slice is coated.

7. Cover and Bake

Cover the casserole tightly with foil to lock in moisture. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours. The goal is tender potatoes that easily pierce with a fork, immersed in a bubbling creamy sauce.

8. Add the Cheddar Topping

Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns a beautiful golden brown.

9. Serve Warm

Let the scalloped potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the dish settle and makes it easier to slice. If you like, garnish with extra fresh thyme for a pop of color and aroma.

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Tips for Making the Best Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

To ensure your scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Slice potatoes thinly and evenly. Consistent thickness means they’ll cook uniformly, resulting in a silky texture.
• Don’t skip sautéing onions. The flavor depth they add transforms the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
• Season carefully at each stage. Salt and pepper layers bring balance to the rich cream and cheese.
• Cover the dish tightly while baking. This traps steam and keeps potatoes tender without drying.
• Rest before serving. Letting it cool slightly allows the sauce to thicken and the dish to slice cleanly.
• Cheese swaps: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan for nuttiness or mozzarella for extra meltiness.
• Storage: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

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Nutritional Information and Serving Suggestions

Each serving of this scalloped potatoes dish contains approximately 350 calories, making it a rich but reasonable side portion for most meals.

Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – 8 Servings Total)

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: Moderate (from cheese and milk)
• Fat: Rich due to butter, cream, and cheese
• Carbohydrates: Moderate (potatoes)

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted or grilled meats like chicken, beef, or pork for a complete meal.
• Complement holiday mains, such as turkey or ham, making it a festive side dish.
• Add a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
• For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir pairs beautifully.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it according to the instructions, adding extra baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What type of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are great for their starchiness and creamy texture when cooked, while Yukon Golds offer a buttery flavor and slightly waxier texture. Both slice well and hold their shape nicely.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

Yes, but expect changes in flavor and texture. Use plant-based milk and cream substitutes, vegan butter, and dairy-free cheese alternatives. You may need to adjust cooking time and seasoning.

How do I know when scalloped potatoes are done?

The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the sauce should be bubbly. If they’re still firm or the sauce is too runny, bake longer, checking every 10-15 minutes.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, scalloped potatoes freeze well. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.

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Conclusion

You now have everything you need to create the perfect Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes—a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and sure to impress. By layering tender potatoes with a luscious cream sauce and a blend of cheeses, you’re bringing a little comfort and joy to your table. This recipe is versatile enough to fit into any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday celebrations.

Don’t hesitate to make this your own: tweak the herbs, try different cheeses, or add a sprinkle of

bacon or chives for extra flair. The key is to enjoy the process and savor the delicious results.

Ready to wow your family and friends? Grab your ingredients, follow these steps, and prepare for a dish that will quickly become a favorite.

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