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A close-up shot showcases creamy and bubbly Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, perfectly browned on top and ready to eat.

Best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Ever

This recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience with layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes bathed in a creamy, cheese-laden sauce. Baked to golden perfection, these scalloped potatoes are a guaranteed family favorite and surprisingly easy to make.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk whole milk or 2%
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp or medium
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese optional
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish optional

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Aluminum foil
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
  6. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
  8. Stir in the cheddar and Gruyere cheeses until melted and smooth.
  9. In the prepared baking dish, layer one-third of the sliced potatoes, followed by one-third of the sliced onion and minced garlic.
  10. Pour one-third of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and onion.
  11. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of cheese sauce.
  12. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  13. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  14. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
  15. Let the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

Don't overcrowd the pan; arrange potatoes in even layers. Pre-cook potatoes for 5-7 minutes to shorten baking time. Customize cheese with Monterey Jack, provolone, or Parmesan. Add red pepper flakes for spice. Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and add 15-20 minutes to baking time. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. Variations: Ham and Cheese, Jalapeño Cheddar, Smoked Gouda, Vegetarian.