If you’re craving a comforting, irresistibly cheesy side dish that brings a touch of Southern warmth to your table, look no further than this Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. It perfectly balances tender, thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, creamy cheese sauce with just the right hint of spice. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or simply want to indulge on a cozy night, this dish combines simple ingredients with a big flavor punch that makes every bite feel like a special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward but essential ingredients come together to create the creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and rich flavor that define this recipe. Each one plays a key role, from the starchy potatoes that soak up all the sauce to the sharp cheddar cheese that adds that beloved tangy bite.
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes: Use russet or Idaho for their sturdy texture, perfect for layering.
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps build the creamy roux base.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Just a touch for subtle depth and warmth.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg: A secret little spice that enhances the savory flavors.
- 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to velvety perfection.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Makes the sauce silky and smooth.
- 1 tsp kosher salt: Brings all the flavors into balance.
- 1 pinch ground red pepper: Adds a mild kick without overpowering.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated, divided): The star ingredient for cheesy goodness.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds an extra layer of savory flavor.
- 1/8 tsp paprika (optional): For a pop of color and subtle smokiness on top.
How to Make Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Start by gathering all your ingredients and slicing your potatoes thinly—around 1/8 inch thick works great either peeled or unpeeled, depending on your preference. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking.
Step 2: Make the Base Sauce
Melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Next, whisk in the flour until smooth, cooking for about one minute to form a roux. This will thicken the sauce and keep it free of lumps.
Step 3: Add Milk and Spices
Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking, ensuring the sauce stays smooth. Bring it to a boil so it thickens up nicely before reducing the heat. Then, stir in kosher salt, ground red pepper, and nutmeg to add layers of bright and warming flavors.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened, lower the heat and add 1 1/2 cups of grated cheddar cheese. Stir until completely melted and the sauce is luxuriously cheesy. Then, remove from the heat to avoid curdling.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Spray a two-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Pour one cup of the cheese sauce into the dish and spread it evenly on the bottom. Lay half the potato slices over the sauce, arranging them evenly to create a smooth base.
Step 6: Add More Sauce
Pour half of the remaining cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it out evenly to cover them well.
Step 7: Repeat the Layers
Top with the remaining potato slices, then pour the rest of the cheese sauce on top, making sure every slice gets coated with that creamy goodness.
Step 8: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the rest of the sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then follow with the Parmesan cheese for a flavorful crust.
Step 9: Bake Covered and Then Uncovered
Cover the dish with foil or a lid and bake for 45 minutes. After that, uncover and bake another 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is bubbly and golden.
Step 10: Add Final Touch
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of paprika if you like, just for a dash of vibrant color. Serve this dish immediately and watch everyone’s faces light up with happiness!
How to Serve Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
To bring an extra sparkle to your Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe, try fresh chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top. They add a fresh burst of color and a gentle herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled or roasted proteins such as chicken, pork chops, or even a juicy steak. Light, crisp green salads or steamed green beans balance out the creamy richness perfectly, making for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in ramekins or small casserole dishes. You can also transform leftovers into a crispy cheesy potato pancake by frying slices in a skillet until golden-brown, giving your Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe a whole new life.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cheesy sauce helps keep the potatoes moist and delicious for up to 3-4 days, making for perfect easy lunches or sides later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish before baking. Assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake from frozen—just add extra baking time until bubbly and tender.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit to maintain the creamy texture and crisp up the top again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the sauce separate or potatoes mushy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes! While russet or Idaho potatoes are ideal for their starchiness and texture, Yukon Gold potatoes also work well. Avoid waxy potatoes since they can make the dish too dense.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
No, peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds extra texture and nutrients, and it also saves prep time. Just make sure to wash the potatoes thoroughly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
You can try substituting the milk with plant-based alternatives and using vegan cheese, but the flavor and texture will differ. This recipe is best enjoyed with real cheese and milk for that classic Southern comfort.
What can I use instead of paprika for the topping?
If you don’t have paprika, a sprinkle of smoked paprika or even a dusting of cayenne pepper can provide a nice touch of color and a little extra warmth.
How thin should the potato slices be?
About 1/8 inch thick is perfect. Thin enough to cook thoroughly in the baking time without becoming mushy but thick enough to hold their shape and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried this Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe yet, you’re missing out on a truly heartwarming classic. It’s so simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to become a family favorite that everyone asks for again. So grab some potatoes, cheese, and butter, and get ready to impress with a dish that feels like a hug on a plate!
Print
Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a classic comfort food dish featuring tender, thinly sliced potatoes layered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and subtle spices. Baked to golden perfection, this dish offers a luscious blend of smooth, cheesy flavors with a hint of nutmeg and garlic, perfect as a hearty side for family dinners or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (peeled or unpeeled, about 4 medium-size russet or Idaho potatoes)
Cheese Sauce
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic (minced finely or grated)
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1–1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 pinch ground red pepper
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated and divided)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1/8 tsp paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients and Preheat Oven: Gather all your ingredients, thinly slice the potatoes to about 1/8 inch thickness, and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Roux Base: In a medium skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced or grated garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about one minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk and Seasonings: Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce. Add kosher salt, ground red pepper, and nutmeg. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
- Melt Cheese into Sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted into the sauce. Remove from heat.
- Layer Sauce and Potatoes: Spray a 2-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Spread 1 cup of the cheese sauce evenly across the bottom. Add half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer over the sauce.
- Add More Sauce: Pour half of the remaining cheese sauce over the potatoes and spread evenly.
- Repeat Layers: Add the remaining potato slices in an even layer and pour the rest of the cheese sauce over them.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then add the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered and Finish: Remove the lid or foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender (test by piercing with a fork) and the top is bubbly and golden. Add a pinch of optional paprika for color and serve immediately.
Notes
- For easier slicing, use a mandoline or sharp knife and strive for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
- You can peel the potatoes if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients.
- Make sure to whisk constantly when making the cheese sauce to avoid lumps and burning.
- If you don’t have sharp cheddar, a mild cheddar can be used but the flavor will be less intense.
- Leftover scalloped potatoes can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
