Dinner

Decadent Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Side Recipe

ByMatteo Rossi January 14, 2026January 14, 2026

Introduction

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort side dish that brings creamy, cheesy goodness to the table. With tender potato slices baked in a rich cream sauce and topped with a golden crust of mozzarella and cheddar, this recipe makes for the ultimate indulgence. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.

This image shows a close-up of a baked dish with about three visible layers of thinly sliced potatoes, each layer golden with crispy edges, slightly browned cheese melted on top, and small green parsley pieces scattered evenly across the surface. The potato slices are arranged in rows, showing their slightly curved shape and soft texture, resting on a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 kg potatoes
1 cup mozzarella, shredded or chopped
¾ cup cheddar
1 cup cream
1.5 cups milk
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Parsley or dill to garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into thin, uniform rounds about 1/8-inch thick for even cooking.
Step 2: Make the sauce by whisking the melted butter and flour in a saucepan over medium heat for about 1 minute to form a roux. This step is critical for a silky-smooth sauce with no lumps.
Step 3: Gradually pour in the milk and cream while continuously whisking, then add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Layer half the sliced potatoes in your prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes, then sprinkle with half of each cheese.
Step 5: Repeat with remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese, ensuring the top layer has plenty of cheese for that beautiful golden crust. The cheese distribution is key to getting delicious crispy edges.
Step 6: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 7: Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes it easier to portion without falling apart. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill just before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce.
You can substitute half-and-half for cream for a lighter sauce.
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery texture or Russets for a fluffier bite.
Add cooked bacon or caramelized onions between layers for a savory twist.

Storage

Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. Avoid freezing as the texture of the cream sauce may change.

How to Serve

The dish shows multiple layers of thin, oval potato slices arranged in overlapping rows, filling the entire white plate. Each potato slice has a light golden-brown edge, with a creamy, baked texture and small bits of melted cheese on top. The surface is sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs evenly spread over the top, adding a fresh touch. The potatoes have a slight gloss from the sauce, and the pattern creates a gentle wave effect across the dish. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it overnight. Simply cover tightly with foil and bake the next day, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if needed.

What’s the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes feature a creamy sauce and cheese, while traditional au gratin potatoes usually include a breadcrumb topping for added crunch. This recipe leans more toward a rich, cheesy scalloped style.