Save Ultra creamy, Southern-style scalloped potatoes layered with rich cheddar cheese and a velvety sauce—perfect as a comforting side for any occasion.
I first served this at a family dinner and everyone asked for seconds it's become a holiday favorite.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 2 kg (about 4.5 lbs) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
- Dairy: 3 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated, 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Aromatics & Seasonings: 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped, 3 cloves garlic minced, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh chives or parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Sauté aromatics:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat melt butter. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
- Make roux:
- Stir in flour cook stirring constantly for 1 2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add liquids:
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Continue whisking until smooth and slightly thickened about 5 minutes.
- Add cheese and seasonings:
- Remove from heat. Stir in 2 cups cheddar all the Parmesan salt pepper smoked paprika and cayenne. Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Layer potatoes:
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared dish slightly overlapping. Pour half the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.
- Add topping:
- Sprinkle remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake covered:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Bake uncovered:
- Remove foil and bake an additional 25 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.
- Rest and garnish:
- Let rest for 10 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with chives or parsley.
Save This recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone shared stories and enjoyed comfort food.
Required Tools
9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, Large saucepan, Whisk, Sharp knife or mandoline, Cutting board, Aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains milk cheese butter and gluten (flour). Not suitable for dairy- or gluten-free diets. Always check cheese and cream labels for hidden additives or allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 390, Total Fat 23 g, Carbohydrates 34 g, Protein 13 g per serving
Save Enjoy this rich creamy dish as a perfect side for any special meal or holiday feast.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal due to their texture and ability to hold shape in layers.
- → How do I achieve a creamy sauce?
Simmering milk and cream with butter, flour, and melted cheddar and Parmesan creates a smooth, rich sauce.
- → Can I add extra flavor to this dish?
Yes, incorporating bacon layers or swapping cheddar for Gruyère or Monterey Jack adds delicious variation.
- → What garnish pairs well?
Fresh chopped chives or parsley provide a bright, herbaceous finish complementing the rich layers.
- → How long should it bake?
Cover and bake for 45 minutes, then uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and potatoes are tender.