Table of Contents

Introduction

Best scalloped potatoes ever recipe — those words might sound bold, but trust me, once you make this dish, you’ll see why I stand by it. Growing up, scalloped potatoes were the ultimate comfort food in my house. My mom would make them for Sunday dinners, holidays, or whenever we had company over. And every time, the casserole dish came out of the oven bubbling with cheese and golden on top, the smell filling the whole house.

Last Thanksgiving, I decided to carry on that tradition. I was nervous because my mom’s scalloped potatoes had a legendary status in our family. But after following this recipe, my uncle took one bite, leaned back in his chair, and said, “These might just be better than your mom’s.” I almost dropped my fork. That’s when I knew this wasn’t just another potato dish—it was a star side.

Best Scalloped Potatoes Ever Recipe | 6 Simple Steps to Creamy Perfection

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the best scalloped potatoes ever recipe:

4 cups potatoes, thinly sliced
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp flour
1 ½ cups milk
1 tsp salt
1 dash cayenne pepper
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup grated cheese (for topping)
Paprika (for color)

Directions for Best Scalloped Potatoes Ever Recipe

Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 1-quart casserole dish.
Make the Roux: In a saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour to form a smooth paste. Cook for 1 minute.
Add Milk & Seasoning: Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Season with salt and cayenne.
Cheese Sauce: Lower heat, add cheddar cheese, stir until melted.
Layer Potatoes: Place half the potatoes in dish, pour half the sauce over. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.
Top & Bake: Sprinkle grated cheese and paprika on top. Bake uncovered 1 hour, until golden and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

Use Gruyère instead of cheddar for a richer flavor.
Add sautéed onions between potato layers for extra sweetness.
Toss in crispy bacon bits for a smoky twist.
Make it creamier by using half milk, half heavy cream.

And if you’re into hearty, cheesy dishes, you’ve gotta try this Oven Roasted Smoked Sausage and Potatoes. It’s just as comforting and makes a perfect partner for scalloped potatoes.

FAQ

Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes. I’ve prepped them the night before, covered them with foil, and stored them in the fridge. Just bake as usual the next day, adding 10 extra minutes to the cook time.

What if I don’t have cheddar cheese?
No problem. I’ve used mozzarella, Monterey Jack, even pepper jack. Each brings its own flavor. Just make sure it’s a good melting cheese.

Storage

Store leftovers in the fridge, tightly covered, for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warm—it helps keep that crispy top intact.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Tools Used

Saucepan
Whisk
Baking dish
Sharp knife & cutting board

Best Scalloped Potatoes Ever Recipe for Family Dinners

When it comes to family gatherings, this best scalloped potatoes ever recipe always steals the show. It’s the kind of dish people remember long after the meal is over.

And if you’re a fan of classic sides, you’ll love this Basic Vegetable Soup. It’s hearty, simple, and pairs perfectly with potatoes.

Why This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Works

It’s all about balance—the creamy cheese sauce, the tender potatoes, the golden crust. Every bite feels like comfort food at its best.

I once brought this dish to a church potluck, and one lady asked me three times if I really made it myself. That’s when you know you’ve got a winning recipe.

If you want more potato inspiration, check out Delish’s collection of potato recipes. They’ve got everything from mashed to roasted.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, potatoes don’t need much to be amazing. But when you slice them thin, bake them in creamy cheese sauce, and top them with golden bubbly cheese—you get the best scalloped potatoes ever.

So next time you want to impress your family or just treat yourself, give this recipe a try. Trust me—you’re gonna love it.