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Cheesy potato gratin with bubbling golden crust.

Ultimate Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes


  • Author: F. Elkaflaoui
  • Total Time: 1H25Min
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These cheesy scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—creamy, rich, and loaded with layers of tender potatoes bathed in a decadent cheese sauce. Featuring Gruyère and sharp cheddar, this dish boasts a perfect balance of nutty, bold, and creamy flavors. Ideal for holiday feasts, family dinners, or a cozy side dish, these scalloped potatoes will steal the show!


Ingredients

Scale

the Potatoes:

  • 3 lbs (about 6 medium) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for greasing the dish)

 Cheese Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (warm)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)

Garnish (Optional):

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep:

    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

    • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
    • Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly until a light golden paste forms.
    • Gradually whisk in warm milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form.
    • Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
    • Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
    • Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted.
  3. Assemble the Dish:

    • Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish.
    • Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes.
    • Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
    • Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top.
  4. Bake:

    • Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
    • Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  5. Rest & Serve:

    • Let sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
    • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Potato Choice: Yukon Gold potatoes create a creamier texture, while Russet potatoes offer a softer, fluffier bite.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
  • Cheese Variations: Swap Gruyère for Fontina or Gouda for a milder taste, or add a bit of blue cheese for a stronger flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace dairy with plant-based butter, almond milk, and vegan cheese.
  • Prep Time: 20Min
  • Cook Time: 1H5Min
  • Category: Side Dish, Comfort Food
  • Method: Oven
  • Cuisine: American, French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 460mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: cheesy scalloped potatoes, best cheese for potatoes, creamy potato bake, baked cheesy potatoes, potato side dish, comfort food recipes