Scalloped Potatoes: Easy Potato Recipe with Perfectly Cheesy Results

Looking for the perfect easy scalloped potatoes recipe? This comprehensive guide will teach you how to make the best scalloped potatoes with a rich, creamy cheese sauce that's guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you're serving these as a comforting side dish or adding ham for a complete meal, this recipe delivers consistently delicious results.

What Makes These the Best Scalloped Potatoes?

Traditional scalloped potatoes combine thinly sliced potatoes with a silky cream sauce, while potatoes au gratin typically include cheese. Our recipe brings you the best of both worlds – a perfect hybrid that delivers both the classic texture of scalloped potatoes and the irresistible appeal of melty cheese.

Tips for Making Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

Choosing the Right Potatoes

When making scalloped potatoes, you can use either Yukon Gold potatoes or Russet potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes offer a creamy texture and buttery flavor, while Russet potatoes help thicken the sauce naturally due to their higher starch content.

How to Slice Potatoes Properly

Using a mandoline slicer is the easiest way to get consistently thin potato slices. If you're using a knife, aim for ⅛-inch thickness to ensure the potatoes cook evenly. Uniform slices are key to achieving perfectly cooked scalloped potatoes.

Making the Perfect Cheese Sauce

The key to a smooth cheese sauce is creating a proper roux. Whisk the flour and butter together before slowly adding the milk and cream. This process will thicken the sauce beautifully and prevent any lumps from forming.

Variations and Add-ins

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Transform this side dish into a complete meal by adding layers of diced ham between the potatoes. This classic combination makes for a hearty comfort food dish that's perfect for using up leftover ham.

Au Gratin Style

For true potatoes au gratin, add extra shredded cheese between layers and on top before baking. The result is an even more decadent version with a golden, cheesy crust.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare this easy scalloped potatoes recipe up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the casserole dish, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes before placing in the oven.

To reheat leftover scalloped potatoes, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between traditional scalloped potatoes and modern convenience. The combination of whole milk and heavy cream creates a rich base, while the cheddar cheese adds depth and flavor. Whether you're making this for a holiday gathering or a weekly family dinner, these cheesy scalloped potatoes are sure to impress.

Common Questions

Can I make scalloped potatoes without cheese?

Yes! Traditional scalloped potatoes are made without cheese. Simply omit the cheddar cheese for a classic version that relies on the cream sauce for richness.

Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?

While possible, freezing isn't recommended as the cream sauce can separate and the potatoes may become grainy. These potatoes are best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Why aren't my potatoes getting tender?

If your potatoes aren't becoming tender, they may be sliced too thick. Using a mandoline slicer helps achieve the ideal thickness for properly cooked potatoes.

Whether you're making this comfort food classic for a holiday meal or Sunday dinner, these easy scalloped potatoes deliver consistently delicious results. The combination of thinly sliced potatoes, creamy sauce, and melty cheese creates a side dish that's sure to become a family favorite.