Save Ultra creamy, cheesy, and comforting, these Southern-style scalloped potatoes are the perfect side dish for any family gathering or holiday meal. Tender potato slices are layered in a rich, garlicky cheese sauce and baked until golden and bubbling.
This recipe reminds me of cozy holiday dinners where everyone looks forward to this rich and comforting side dish.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
- Cheese Sauce: 3 cups (340 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided, 1 cup (100 g) shredded Gruyère cheese, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk, 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Topping: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon fresh chives or parsley finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with butter.
- Step 2:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Step 4:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
- Step 5:
- Stir in 2 cups of cheddar and all the Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Add salt, pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Remove from heat.
- Step 6:
- Layer half the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour half the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Step 7:
- Arrange the remaining potatoes on top, then pour over the rest of the cheese sauce.
- Step 8:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Step 9:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Step 10:
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
- Step 11:
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chives or parsley if desired.
Save This dish always brings family together and sparks great conversations over the dinner table.
Required Tools
9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, saucepan, whisk, sharp knife or mandoline, mixing spoon, aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, cheese, cream, butter) and gluten (flour). Contains eggs if using enriched flour or cheese with added egg. Always check cheese and other packaged ingredients for allergens and cross-contamination risks.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 370, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 30 g, Protein: 13 g per serving
Save Enjoy this rich scalloped potatoes dish as a comforting addition to any meal, sure to please all your guests.
Recipe Q&A Section
- → What type of potatoes works best?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal due to their texture and ability to absorb the creamy sauce while maintaining structure.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses?
Gruyère can be replaced with Swiss or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, while still achieving a creamy texture.
- → How do I achieve a golden top?
Sprinkle extra cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top before baking uncovered to get a crisp, golden crust.
- → Is a mandoline slicer necessary?
While not required, a mandoline slicer ensures uniformly thin potato slices for even cooking and texture.
- → Any tips for extra flavor?
Adding a pinch of cayenne or layering caramelized onions between potato layers enhances depth and warmth.