There’s just something about comfort food that warms the soul, and for me, cheesy scalloped potatoes are at the top of that list! I remember my grandmother making them for family gatherings, filling the house with that irresistible aroma of garlic and melted cheese. Every bite is like a warm hug, with layers of creamy potatoes and gooey cheese coming together in perfect harmony. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple at your table too! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture that makes any meal feel truly special.

Ingredients for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

To whip up these dreamy cheesy scalloped potatoes, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:

4 large potatoes, thinly sliced – I love using russet potatoes for their creamy texture, but feel free to use your favorite variety!
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – The star of the show! I usually go for sharp cheddar for that extra flavor kick.
1 cup heavy cream – This adds richness and creaminess that makes every bite heavenly.
1 cup milk – A little extra liquid to balance out the creaminess—whole milk works best!
2 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better, right? It adds such a delicious depth of flavor.
1 teaspoon salt – Just the right amount to bring out all those amazing flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – A little warmth to complement the creamy goodness.
1 tablespoon butter – For greasing the dish and adding a touch of richness.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a side dish that’s both comforting and delicious! Trust me, you won’t regret it.

How to Prepare Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation! I promise it’s simple and oh-so-rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a deliciously cheesy dish in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is super important, so don’t skip this step! You want your potatoes to bake evenly and achieve that golden perfection.
Grease a baking dish with the butter. Use your fingers or a paper towel to spread it around. This helps prevent sticking and adds extra flavor!
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the dish. Make sure they’re overlapping slightly for even cooking.
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes. Oh, the cheesy goodness begins!
Mix the cream mixture by combining the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir it well until everything’s blended together.
Pour half of the cream mixture evenly over the potatoes and cheese. This is where the magic happens as it seeps into those layers!
Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, cheese, and cream mixture. You want to finish with that glorious cheese on top for the best melty finish.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This helps steam the potatoes and makes them tender.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Wow, can you smell that? It’s going to be hard to wait!

Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help everything settle and make it easier to scoop out those delicious layers. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredible flavor: The combination of creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar, and garlic creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist!
Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this comforting dish without any fuss.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy family dinner, these cheesy scalloped potatoes are always a hit!
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, like onions or fresh herbs, to make it your own.
Great for leftovers: They reheat beautifully, making them a fantastic option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes, and this dish will have your family and friends coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

Nutritional Information

When indulging in these cheesy scalloped potatoes, it’s good to know what you’re savoring! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup). Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 10g

So, while these potatoes are a bit indulgent, they’re also packed with flavor and satisfaction. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Tips for Success

To make sure your cheesy scalloped potatoes turn out absolutely perfect, here are some of my go-to tips that I swear by:

Choose the right potatoes: I love using russets for their starchiness, but Yukon Golds are also a great choice for a creamier texture. Just avoid waxy potatoes, as they won’t soften as nicely!
Get creative with cheese: While cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to mix it up! Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese can add a delicious twist.
Layering is key: Don’t skimp on the layering! Make sure each layer of potatoes, cheese, and cream is generous. It ensures every bite is filled with that cheesy goodness.
Let it rest: I know it’s hard to wait, but letting the dish rest for about 10 minutes after baking allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.
Add some aromatics: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some chopped onions or shallots when layering the potatoes. They’ll caramelize beautifully and complement the cheese perfectly.
Spice it up: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! A pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of paprika can elevate the dish and give it a lovely warmth.
Make it ahead: If you’re prepping for a big dinner, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the best cheesy scalloped potatoes ever! Enjoy the process and, of course, the delicious results!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After you’ve enjoyed your cheesy scalloped potatoes, you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers (if there are any left—trust me, they’re that good!). Here’s how to store and reheat them for the best taste:

First things first, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent moisture buildup in your container. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them sealed tight so they don’t absorb any funky fridge odors!

When it’s time to dig in again, reheating is a breeze. You can pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes or until heated through. Covering the dish with foil helps retain moisture and keeps the cheesy top from over-browning. If you prefer the microwave, just heat in short bursts of 1–2 minutes, stirring in between, until they’re warmed to your liking. However, keep in mind that the oven will give you that delightful crispy edges that we all love!

So, whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or reheated, these cheesy scalloped potatoes are sure to hit the spot every time. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is the classic choice for cheesy scalloped potatoes, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a hint of blue cheese for a unique flavor twist. Just remember to balance the stronger cheeses with milder ones for the best results!

How can I make these scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Making these cheesy scalloped potatoes ahead is super simple! You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake. If you’re doing this, I recommend adding a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

What can I add for dietary variations?
If you’re looking to make this dish a bit lighter, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use a lower-fat cheese option. For a vegan version, try using cashew cream and a dairy-free cheese substitute, along with some thinly sliced veggies for added flavor and nutrition!

Can I freeze cheesy scalloped potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure to let the dish cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

What’s the best way to serve cheesy scalloped potatoes?
These scalloped potatoes make a fantastic side dish for any meal! They pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even a fresh salad. Just scoop out generous portions and watch everyone dive in—trust me, they won’t last long!

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: 7 Steps to Pure Comfort

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy and cheesy scalloped potatoes baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a baking dish with butter.
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish.
Sprinkle half of the cheese over the potatoes.
Mix cream, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes and cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, cheese, and cream mixture.
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving.
For extra flavor, add chopped onions or herbs.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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