Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe will become your go-to side dish for gatherings and weeknight dinners. Creamy, cheesy, and rich, this comforting dish is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or simply a cozy family meal. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a deliciously satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it easy to whip up.
• Cheesy Goodness: With layers of cheddar and parmesan cheese, each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfectly pairs with meats, salads, and more, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Feeds a Crowd: Generous servings ensure there’s enough to share, making it ideal for gatherings.
• Comfort Food Classic: A timeless dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking these easy scalloped potatoes, gathering the right tools will make the process smoother. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13)
• Mandoline slicer
• Small saucepan
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish (9×13): The perfect size for layering potatoes and cheese while allowing even cooking.
• Mandoline slicer: Ensures uniform potato slices for consistent cooking and texture.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for warming the cream mixture without burning it.

Ingredients

This easy scalloped potatoes recipe is incredibly comforting, creamy, cheesy, and rich! It’s a simple side dish that feeds a crowd and has very few ingredients.

For the Cheese Mixture

• 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

For the Potatoes

• 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups heavy/whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Pepper (to taste)

How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Move the rack to the middle position to ensure even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Grate the cheeses using a grater.
2. Peel the potatoes and slice them into 1/8 (3 mm) pieces using a mandoline slicer.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

1. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add the butter.
2. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream along with salt and pepper. Heat until warm but do not boil; stir occasionally.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Grease your baking dish lightly.
2. Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish.
3. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes followed by half of each type of cheese.
4. Repeat with another layer of potatoes, cream mixture, and cheeses until all are used up.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 25-35 minutes until tender. Test doneness with a toothpick; it should slide in easily.

Step 6: Serve

Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving so they set properly. Enjoy your creamy goodness!

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes make a fantastic side dish that pairs well with various entrees. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes can complement your meal beautifully. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

For a Comforting Family Meal

• Roasted Chicken – Serve with juicy roasted chicken for a classic comfort food pairing.
• Grilled Steak – The richness of scalloped potatoes balances perfectly with the flavors of grilled steak.

For Special Occasions

• Holiday Ham – This dish is the perfect side to a glazed holiday ham, enhancing the meal’s savory notes.
• Baked Salmon – Pair with baked salmon for a delightful mix of creaminess and tender fish.

As Part of a Buffet Spread

• Vegetable Stir-Fry – Add color and texture to your buffet with a vibrant vegetable stir-fry.
• Caesar Salad – A fresh Caesar salad provides a crisp contrast to the creamy scalloped potatoes.

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How to Perfect Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

To create the best Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, follow these helpful tips. Each suggestion will ensure your dish turns out creamy and delicious every time.

• Choose Quality Potatoes – Select fresh Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
• Slice Evenly – Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices, ensuring even cooking throughout.
• Layer Wisely – Alternate layers of potatoes, cream, and cheese to achieve perfect gooeyness in every bite.
• Cover While Baking – Start by covering your baking dish with foil to trap steam, then uncover for browning in the final minutes.
• Rest Before Serving – Allow the dish to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set for easier serving.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try adding different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

When serving Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, consider these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal experience. Each option adds variety and balance to your plate.

1. Garlic Bread – A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into creamy sauces left on your plate.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green steamed broccoli adds nutrition and color, balancing the richness of scalloped potatoes.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a flavorful crunch alongside cheesy potatoes.
4. Honey Glazed Carrots – Sweet honey-glazed carrots offer a delicious contrast to the savory flavors of scalloped potatoes.
5. Coleslaw – A light coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, making it an excellent counterpart to this hearty dish.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob is an easy and fun side that complements any meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes can be straightforward, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the cheese grating: Pre-packaged cheese may not melt as well. Always grate your cheese fresh for the creamiest texture.
• Ignoring potato thickness: Slicing potatoes too thick can result in uneven cooking. Aim for 1/8 slices for perfect doneness.
• Overcooking garlic: Cooking garlic too long can make it bitter. Sauté only until fragrant, about 30 seconds, before adding cream.
• Not layering properly: Failing to layer ingredients evenly can lead to inconsistent flavors. Alternate potatoes, cream, and cheese uniformly for even distribution.
• Neglecting resting time: Cutting into the dish immediately after baking can make it runny. Letting it sit for 5-10 minutes helps the layers set.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best flavor and freshness.

Freezing Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Allow them to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil; they’ll keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions.

How do I make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes creamy?

For a creamier texture, use heavy cream and ensure you layer the cheeses evenly throughout the dish.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella with cheddar for a unique flavor profile.

What should I serve with Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

These scalloped potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats or green salads. They are versatile enough to complement any main dish.

How can I customize my Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed onions between layers for extra flavor. Herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the taste too!

Final Thoughts

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are comforting and rich, making them a perfect side dish for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is both approachable and customizable. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your twist, you’re sure to delight your guests!