Classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe are one of those timeless side dishes that feel like a warm hug on the dinner table. Creamy, cheesy, and layered with tender potato slices, this dish has been a staple at Sunday dinners, family gatherings, and holiday feasts for generations.

I still remember my grandmother pulling a bubbling tray of scalloped potatoes out of the oven, the golden cheese crust filling the kitchen with the most irresistible aroma. The best part? Sneaking the crispy edges before everyone else sat down at the table!

This recipe uses simple ingredients—potatoes, cheese, butter, and milk—but when combined, they create a dish that’s rich, comforting, and impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving roasted meats, baked chicken, or enjoying a vegetarian meal, scalloped potatoes are the perfect match.

If you love cozy side dishes, you’ll also enjoy trying our Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe for another homestyle favorite.

Classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe – 7 Easy Steps for Creamy Perfection

Ingredients – Classic Scalloped Potatoes

• 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes

• 3 tbsp butter

• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ cups milk

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 dash cayenne pepper

• 1 ½ cups grated sharp Cheddar cheese, divided

• Paprika (optional, for garnish)

Directions –Classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a one-quart casserole dish.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce
   In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add cold milk, whisking until smooth. Season with salt and cayenne.

3. Cook & Add Cheese
   Increase heat to medium, whisk until thickened. Reduce to low and stir in 1 cup Cheddar until fully melted.

4. Layer Potatoes & Sauce
   Place half the sliced potatoes in dish, pour half the cheese sauce. Repeat with the rest.

5. Top & Bake
   Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheese on top. Add paprika if desired. Bake uncovered for 1 hour, until potatoes are tender and top is golden and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• Extra Creamy: Add ½ cup heavy cream to the milk for a richer sauce.

• Cheese Lovers: Mix cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or Mozzarella for extra depth.

• Garlic Infusion: Rub the baking dish with a garlic clove for a subtle garlicky kick.

• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

Pair this side dish with Creamy Mushroom Soup for a cozy meal or serve alongside roast beef or baked chicken.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat covered at 325°F until warmed through.

Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 60 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Servings: 6

Tools Used

• Casserole baking dish (1 quart)

• Saucepan

• Whisk

• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer

FAQ

Q1: Can I use russet potatoes?
Yes! Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best since they hold their shape and soak up the creamy sauce.

Q2: How do I prevent watery scalloped potatoes?
Make sure to cook the sauce until it thickens before layering. Also, pat potatoes dry if rinsed.

Final Thoughts – Classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

This Classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and golden dish that always steals the spotlight at the table. It’s a comfort food classic that pairs with almost anything, from roasted meats to fresh salads.

For the ultimate comfort food spread, serve these scalloped potatoes with Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs or finish the meal with a sweet treat like Pineapple Juice Cake.

If you’re looking for even more homestyle recipes, explore AllRecipes’ Comfort Food Collection for endless inspiration, delicious twists, and tried-and-true dishes your family will absolutely love sharing together.