There’s just something about a good scalloped potatoes recipe that takes me right back to cozy family dinners as a kid. I remember my grandma’s kitchen filling with that warm, comforting scent of creamy scalloped potatoes baking in the oven—thinly sliced potatoes layered in a velvety sauce, bubbling with just the right hint of cheese. This recipe quickly became a staple in my home because, honestly, who doesn’t love that creamy, cheesy goodness? It’s the kind of baked potato casserole that feels like a hug on a plate.
My own journey with this scalloped potatoes recipe wasn’t all smooth sailing, though. I have to admit, I used to struggle getting that perfect creamy texture without the sauce splitting or the potatoes turning out mushy. It took some trial and error (and a few less-than-perfect dinners) before I figured out the best way to slice the potatoes, build the layers, and balance the sauce—now it’s a go-to in my hectic family life. When you have busy days and tired kids, having a dish that’s as forgiving as it is delicious is a lifesaver.
I first perfected this scalloped potatoes recipe during a particularly overwhelming weeknight. I needed a dish that would fill everyone up and bring a little warmth without standing me over the stove for hours. Since then, it’s been my secret weapon alongside other favorites like my Cajun Scalloped Potatoes on the blog, which adds a little spice twist. And for those days when I’m craving something comforting but quick, I turn to recipes like this easy scalloped potatoes one I found from I Am Baker’s cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe.
You know I believe in cooking that’s approachable and full of heart—that’s how I found my groove with this scalloped potatoes recipe. It’s nourishing, shareable, and always promises leftovers that reheat beautifully (if there are any!). If you love cozy, baked dishes that bring the family together, I’m so excited to share this recipe with you. Let’s roll up our sleeves and make some creamy scalloped potatoes that will have everyone asking for seconds. And if you’re curious about other dishes that pair beautifully, like my Maple Glazed Chicken with Sweet Potatoes, check that out for a perfect dinner partner here. Ready to get started?
What You’ll Need for This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

When I’m gathering ingredients for my scalloped potatoes recipe, I always make sure to have everything fresh and ready. Here’s what you’ll need to create those creamy scalloped potatoes that everyone raves about:
- 2 ½ pounds of Russet potatoes (I prefer Russets for their starchy, creamy texture which is perfect for baked potato casserole)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for an even richer, creamier scalloped potatoes dish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds a subtle warmth)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar makes cheesy scalloped potatoes shine)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
When you’re shopping for potatoes au gratin, look for firm, unblemished potatoes—they’ll slice more evenly for that perfect layered look. I always buy cheese in blocks and shred it myself because pre-shredded can sometimes have additives that affect melting. If you want a shortcut, you can find pre-sliced potatoes for scalloped dishes in some grocery stores, which can save chopping time—that’s a nice win for busy weeks!
One tip I’ve learned through making this scalloped potatoes recipe time and time again: don’t wash the potatoes after slicing. The starch helps thicken the creamy sauce. Also, if you find yourself with leftover milk or butter from other recipes, they store well in the fridge and can come in handy next time you’re making this baked potato casserole.
For ingredient inspiration, the lovely folks over at Love and Lemons’ scalloped potatoes recipe have some great ideas on using seasonal veggies if you want to mix things up. Personally, I keep these simple and classic so the creamy scalloped potatoes are the star.
Let’s Make This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Together
Alright, let’s get our hands into making this scalloped potatoes recipe! I’ll walk you through it, step-by-step, like we’re cooking side by side. Don’t worry if this is your first time making a baked potato casserole—you’ll do great!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the stage for those cheesy scalloped potatoes to bake up golden and bubbling.
- Prepare your potatoes. I slice mine thin, about 1/8 inch thick. Using a mandoline makes this easier and ensures even cooking. Just be super careful with your fingers! Your scalloped potatoes recipe layers will look so pretty when sliced evenly.
- Make the sauce. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour and cook it for about 1-2 minutes so you lose that raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk and keep stirring until the mixture thickens—this is the creamy scalloped potatoes’ magic. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Don’t rush this part; patience here makes all the difference.
- Layer the dish. Butter your casserole dish lightly. Start with a layer of your potato slices, then pour a bit of the creamy sauce over them, sprinkle some cheddar and Parmesan, and repeat until everything is used. The top layer should be cheese-heavy—that’s where the golden crust happens.
- Bake uncovered for about 50-60 minutes. In my kitchen, this timing makes the potatoes tender but not mushy. You want a skewer to slide in easily but the dish to still hold its shape. Towards the end, if you want extra browning, pop it under the broiler for just a couple of minutes with an eye on it.
- Let it rest before serving. I know it’s hard, but this helps the sauce settle so your scalloped potatoes slice nicely.
While the scalloped potatoes recipe bakes, I usually tidy the kitchen or set the table—makes the most of the waiting time! The smell of the creamy scalloped potatoes wafting through the house always gets my family excited. You can also check out Gimme Some Oven’s scalloped potatoes recipe for more technique tips to perfect your layers.
How I Love to Serve This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
There’s something about how this scalloped potatoes recipe looks when plated—creamy layers and a bubbly golden top—that just says celebration, even on a regular Tuesday night. My family loves it alongside roast chicken or tender pork, and I’ve found it pairs beautifully with something green and fresh like a simple salad or sautéed green beans to balance the richness.
This cheesy scalloped potatoes dish is a star at holiday dinners—it holds up well for gatherings and even feeds a crowd. For casual meals, I love serving it with my creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes; the combination feels downright indulgent. If you want to get a little playful, try adding bacon or caramelized onions to the scalloped potatoes to give it an extra flavor kick.
Leftovers? They reheat wonderfully in the microwave or the oven—sometimes I turn them into a loaded baked potato casserole by topping with sour cream and chives for a hearty lunch the next day. Seasonal twists like adding fresh thyme or using Yukon Gold potatoes instead of Russets are some of my favorite variations.
Guests often ask for my scalloped potatoes recipe after they’ve had it at our table, and I feel proud knowing I can pass along this comforting classic. And don’t forget to check out my twist on Cajun Scalloped Potatoes if you want to spice things up!
Your Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Questions Answered
Q: Can I make this scalloped potatoes recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! I often assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and bake it the next day. It actually helps the flavors meld even better. Just add 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Q: What if I don’t have sharp cheddar?
No worries! You can substitute with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy vibe. When I’m in a pinch, I’ve used whatever cheese I had around, and it still turned out deliciously creamy scalloped potatoes.
Q: How do I avoid soggy scalloped potatoes?
We’ve all faced this! The key for me is slicing the potatoes thin and evenly and making sure the sauce isn’t too runny—thicker sauces help keep the casserole perfect. Also, letting it rest before cutting really helps the layers set nicely.
Q: Can I add veggies to this recipe?
Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or even thinly sliced zucchini can be folded in between layers for more texture and flavor. I did a creamy scalloped potatoes and mushroom bake once that everyone loved.
Q: What’s the difference between scalloped potatoes and potatoes au gratin?
Great question! Potatoes au gratin typically feature cheese in every layer and a crispier top, while scalloped potatoes often have a creamier sauce with less cheese per layer. Both fabulous, both comforting—check out I Am Baker’s cheesy scalloped potatoes for a version leaning more towards au gratin style.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm. Sometimes I even freeze a portion for busy weeks, though the texture changes a bit.
Q: Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
You can! Use dairy-free milk and vegan butter, plus a plant-based cheese substitute. I haven’t made this version myself yet but have heard from readers that it works well, especially if you thicken the sauce with a bit more flour or cornstarch.
If you want extra tips on perfecting your creamy scalloped potatoes or want to try a seasonal variation, I recommend popping over to Gimme Some Oven’s recipe for their friendly advice.
My Final Thoughts on This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
This scalloped potatoes recipe has truly carved out a special spot in my heart—and my family’s too. It’s the kind of dish that says, “Welcome home” and “Let’s sit down together.” Whether you’re making creamy scalloped potatoes for a holiday feast, a weeknight baked potato casserole, or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe adapts and welcomes your personal touch.
My Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Pro Tips:
– Always slice your potatoes evenly using a mandoline for consistent cooking.
– Let the casserole rest after baking for cleaner slices and better sauce texture.
– Use a mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan for that perfect balance in cheesy scalloped potatoes.
Over the years, we’ve played with this recipe quite a bit. The Cajun version here adds just the right kick for spice lovers, and the simpler, classic easy scalloped potatoes version works great for busy nights. My kids love it plain and creamy, while my husband is all about extra cheese and garlic. This makes me smile because food that brings everyone together with their own favorite twist is my very favorite kind of meal.
If you try making this scalloped potatoes recipe your own, I hope it brings you as much joy and comfort as it has to me. Cooking should always feel good and be a little adventure—don’t be afraid to add your spin to this baked potato casserole classic. Remember, the best recipes are the ones that make your kitchen feel like home.
And if you’re looking to mix things up with more creamy potato magic, try my creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes for an indulgent dinner option that pairs wonderfully.
Thanks for cooking along with me today. Here’s to cozy kitchens and warm plates of scalloped potatoes recipe success!

If you want to read more about the art of scalloped potatoes and other cheesy sides, these external recipes might spark your inspiration:
Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
A creamy and comforting classic scalloped potatoes dish made with thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect as a hearty side for any dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with butter.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until melted and smooth.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits or chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before baking.

