Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

This Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a delightful addition to any meal, perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or cozy dinners at home. With its creamy texture and rich cheesy flavor, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s not only simple to prepare but also requires minimal ingredients, making it an accessible choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted chicken or as part of a festive feast, these scalloped potatoes will be the star of your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe can be prepared in just 20 minutes, allowing you to focus on other dishes or enjoy time with guests.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The blend of cheddar and parmesan creates a rich and savory taste that appeals to all palates.
• Versatile Side Dish: Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes pair well with a variety of main courses, from meats to vegetarian options.
• Comfort Food Classic: This dish embodies comfort food at its finest; it’s creamy, cheesy, and fulfilling.
• Easily Scalable: With this recipe serving 10, it can easily be adjusted for larger gatherings or intimate dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having the right equipment on hand makes all the difference when making Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13)
• Mandoline slicer
• Small saucepan
• Grater
• Mixing spoon
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish (9×13): This size is perfect for layering and baking your scalloped potatoes evenly.
• Mandoline slicer: Guarantees uniform potato slices for even cooking while saving time.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for warming the cream mixture without splattering.

Ingredients

This easy scalloped potatoes recipe is incredibly comforting, creamy, cheesy, and rich! It’s a simple side dish that feeds a crowd and has very few ingredients.

For the Cheesy Layer

• 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

For the Base

• 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Creamy Mixture

• 2 cups heavy/whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Pepper (to taste)

How to Make Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F and move the rack to the middle position.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Grate both types of cheese; set aside.
• Peel your potatoes, then use a mandoline slicer to cut them into 1/8 (3 mm) slices.

Step 3: Make the Cream Mixture

• In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add the butter.
• Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Let this warm through while stirring occasionally until it reaches a boil. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Layer Your Potatoes

• In a greased 9×13 baking dish, arrange half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Overlap them slightly but don’t worry about perfection.
• Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes.
• Sprinkle half of each type of cheese over this layer.
• Repeat with another layer of potatoes followed by cream and cheese.

Step 5: Bake Until Perfectly Tender

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 25-35 minutes or until tender when pierced with a toothpick.

Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving

Allow your Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes to sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps set the layers beautifully.

Enjoy your homemade scalloped potatoes as an indulgent side that’s both easy to prepare and impossible not to love!

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful side dish perfect for any occasion. Their creamy, cheesy goodness pairs well with a variety of main courses and can be served in several ways to enhance your meal.

Pair with Proteins

• Roasted Chicken – The rich flavors of scalloped potatoes complement the savory taste of roasted chicken beautifully.
• Grilled Steak – A juicy steak alongside cheesy potatoes creates a satisfying and hearty meal.
• Baked Salmon – The creaminess of the potatoes balances well with the lightness of baked salmon.

Add Fresh Greens

• Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition, making it a perfect contrast to the creamy dish.
• Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch that offsets the richness of the potatoes.
• Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach adds a healthy touch and complements cheesy potatoes nicely.

Unique Serving Ideas

• In Individual Servings – Bake in ramekins for a personal touch at dinner parties or gatherings.
• With a Dollop of Sour Cream – Add sour cream on top for an extra creamy texture that enhances flavor.

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How to Perfect Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

To achieve the best results with your Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, follow these simple tips that ensure they come out perfectly every time.

• Choose the Right Potatoes – Use starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold for creaminess and flavor.
• Slice Evenly – Ensure potato slices are uniform (about 1/8 inch) for even cooking throughout the dish.
• Layer Properly – Alternate layers of potatoes, cheese, and cream mixture to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
• Bake Covered Initially – Covering with foil for part of baking prevents over-browning while allowing them to cook through.
• Let Rest Before Serving – Allow the dish to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking; this helps set up the layers for easier serving.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes pair wonderfully with various sides, enhancing your meal experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a nice crunch and is quick to prepare.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots – Sweet carrots add a delicious contrast to rich scalloped potatoes and can be made in under 20 minutes.
3. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad brings freshness and zest to balance out the creamy dish.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts provide both texture and flavor, making them an ideal match.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunchiness and brightness that complements cheesy flavors well.
6. Baked Beans – Hearty baked beans create a comforting combination that resonates with family-style meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Preheating the Oven – Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure an even bake.
• Using the Wrong Potato Variety – Not all potatoes are created equal! Stick with Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture and flavor.
• Overcooking the Garlic – Burning garlic can make it bitter. Cook it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
• Neglecting Layering – Skipping layers results in uneven flavor. Ensure you layer potatoes, cream, and cheese evenly for a rich taste.
• Not Letting It Rest – Cutting into the dish too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to set properly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven – Reheat at 350F for about 20-30 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave – Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop – Place in a pan with a splash of cream or milk, stirring gently over low heat until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

You can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk and reduce cheese amounts for fewer calories.

What can I serve with Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

These scalloped potatoes pair well with roast meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add extra baking time when ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different cheeses or add herbs for extra flavors. This side dish is sure to delight everyone at your table, making it perfect for gatherings and family dinners!