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    Home » Recipes » Potatoes

    Baked Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

    Published: Feb 11, 2020 · Modified: Feb 7, 2022 by Karin and Ken · This post may contain affiliate links. 18 Comments

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    Baked Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a simple dish with sliced potatoes, onions and cheese baked in the most flavorful, creamy cheese sauce ever!

    White casserole dish filled with cheesy scalloped potatoes and a plate with a serving of potatoes on it.

    Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

    We are a potato family and we can't seem to get enough of them. The best scalloped potatoes are one of our favorite ways to eat them and this easy cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe is totally delicious cheesy potato perfection!

    You really will have to try it.

    If you are a potato lover, scalloped potatoes with cheese are just delicious, in every way. Whether you include bacon or ham, or any other cooked meat, this is the best easy scalloped potatoes recipe and the only one you will ever need.

    You have the option of adding bacon, ham, ground beef, sausage or anything else you can think of for that matter. My goodness, you can even add some carrots, green beans, broccoli, cauliflower or peas if you want.

    I am giving you the basic recipe and it will be yours to do with what you desire. That is why this fool proof recipe is the BEST scalloped potatoes recipe around!

    Simple Scalloped Potatoes

    It's funny because my son Patrick says he remembers making these simple potatoes when he was younger and frankly, I just don't. First of all I used a totally different recipe.

    I also know I would not have let him slice all of these potatoes on his own, nevermind using the oven, but I suspect I allowed him to sprinkle cheese all over the top?

    I suppose that counts as making it?

    Regardless, I always remember him watching food bake in the oven through that little window. He would be in and out of the kitchen constantly.

    He was always such a busy kid and he always had a fascination with food which he still has to this day!

    Honestly, he will eat almost anything but LOVES these simple cheesy scalloped potatoes. I mean who wouldn't?

    A small plate of cheesy scalloped potatoes with a fork on a green napkin.

    Scalloped Cheesy Potatoes

    Scalloped cheesy potatoes, especially this quick and easy scalloped potatoes recipe, are truly a sight to behold and an experience that everyone should experience, at least once.

    This is a bucket list kind of recipe.

    Totally creamy, cheesy comfort food. You can make this cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe, which I am guilty of making regularly, and enjoy the warm and fuzzy feeling inside that this dish brings.

    You can definitely buy a boxed kit to make quick and easy scalloped potatoes but there is something wonderful about making scalloped potatoes from scratch, using real potatoes.

    What could be better than cheesy scalloped potatoes made with real potatoes? I can't think of much.

    I really hope you all try this cheesy potatoes recipe made with real potatoes, at least once.

    Cheesy Scalloped Potato Recipe

    There is something to be said for having the best cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe around!

    You'll LOVE it! With this quick and easy cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe the cheese gets evenly distributed throughout and on top of the dish.

    That is wonderful. I need a little cheese in every bite. Don't you?

    You can also add as much or as little cheese as you want. I always add more than my husband. Always have and always will.

    I love adding the cheese right before you dump the creamy potato mixture into your casserole dish to bake. This means the cheese goes everywhere and you are only left to control how cheesy you make the top!

    In my opinion, the cheesier the better!

    Casserole dish filled with cheesy scalloped potatoes right out of the oven.

    Why are Scalloped Potatoes Called That?

    It is with much speculation that scalloped potatoes got their name from the Old English word “collop,” which means “to slice thinly” but no one knows for sure.

    The term "collop" was actually used to refer to thinly sliced meat at the time.

    In addition, the term “scalloped” could also be used to describe the shape the potato slices make when they’re assembled in the baking dish or even how they are sliced.

    Unfortunately, I couldn't find a definitive answer.

    If any of you know, please leave a note for me in the comment section. I would be grateful because I looked everywhere I could think of.

    A small white plate full of cheesy scalloped potatoes with a fork on a green napkin.

    Best Potatoes for Scalloped Potatoes

    The truth is you can use either russet or Idaho potatoes, Yukon Gold or yellow fleshed potatoes or another starchy potato. The starch in the potato helps to thicken the sauce and make it velvety smooth, especially with russet or Idaho potatoes.

    Red potatoes and other waxy varieties don't always cook as well and for the best results overall I just wouldn't use them.

    I personally prefer using russet potatoes. That being said, I have used Yukon Gold or yellow fleshed potatoes as well and found that they maintained their form or shape a little better and have a more buttery taste.

    I do recommend peeling your potatoes, if you’re using russet potatoes because the skin can be tough and difficult, but if you’re using yukon gold or yellow fleshed potatoes, leaving the skin on works out just fine.

    Overall, this foolproof, quick and easy scalloped potato recipe works beautifully with both kinds of potatoes.

    I have never had a complaint or a problem either way with the tender potatoes in the creamy final result.

    How do You Slice Potatoes for Scalloped Potatoes?

    Your goal is to have potato slices that are between ⅛ and ¼ of an inch thick as a general rule.

    It is also important to remember that the thinner the potato slice, the faster they will all cook and your slices need to be as close to the same size as possible.

    A sharp knife will work just fine to slice your potatoes if need be or you can use a slicing blade attachment on your food processor.

    I like to use a mandolin to slice the potatoes, and all of my other vegetables for that matter, and this is the one I use.

    Mandolins are great for making sure every potato slice is the exact same thickness, also so much faster and more exact than a knife, which means the potatoes all cook uniformly in your finished product.

    This mandolin comes with cut resistant gloves and I am thinking I am going to order one myself. I just had to share that with you because I can't help but think what a great idea the gloves are. Just brilliant.

    A closeup of a casserole dish and a serving spoon right out of the oven.

    Scalloped Potatoes without Cheese

    Unfortunately, this dish cannot be made without using cheese without changing this recipe so much that I decided to create a scalloped potato recipe without cheese that we are working on as we speak and enjoying every moment!

    Scalloped Potatoes au gratin or with cheese

    This recipe for the Best Scalloped Potatoes is technically, Au Gratin Potatoes when made with cheese, and myself, I use cheese at every opportunity it seems because I just can't help myself. I love cheese on just about anything, but especially potatoes.

    Having a terrific au gratin potatoes recipe is important for everyone to possess and this one is a definite keeper. Au gratin potatoes are a perfect side dish or with some ham, ground beef, sausage or bacon added an amazing meal!

    Cheese and potatoes are definitely a perfect combination.

    What Is The Difference Between Scalloped Potatoes And Potatoes Au Gratin

    Scalloped Potatoes and Potatoes Au Gratin are basically the same thing, thinly sliced potatoes, layered in a casserole dish surrounded by a dairy based sauce (cream or milk), with one major difference and two minor ones.

    The main difference is that Potatoes Au Gratin include cheese, sometimes inside, mostly on top and sometimes both.

    Generally Potatoes Au Gratin also have some bread crumbs sprinkled all over the top while they are baked and the potatoes are usually sliced thinner than with Scalloped Potatoes.

    Scalloped Potatoes with Ham

    Scalloped potatoes and ham are incredible and literally perfect together! This simple scalloped potato dish goes from being a side dish to a main course by adding one easy step!

    True, you can use cooked bacon, Canadian, peameal or back bacon, ground beef, sausage, leftovers, frankly any cooked meat will work too, but there is something about how the ham tastes in this quick and easy scalloped potato recipe and oh so creamy sauce!

    All you need to do is chop up your ham, whether it be leftover or store bought and add it to your potato mixture right before you dump it into your casserole dish and that is it.

    Same goes for whichever type of meat you choose to use to make this simple scalloped potatoes recipe. Make sure it is cooked and add it to your potato mixture right before you pour it into your oven safe dish to bake.

    Easy peasy and dinner is served shortly!

    A closeup of some cheesy scalloped potatoes on a fork.

    Ingredients in The Best Scalloped Cheesy Potatoes

    • russet potatoes or Idaho Potatoes
    • onion
    • garlic
    • cheddar
    • parmesan cheese
    • chicken broth
    • heavy or whipping cream
    • unsalted butter
    • thyme
    • salt
    • pepper

    How to Make Scalloped Potatoes from Scratch

    Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.

    Add onion and cook until tender, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.

    Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.

    Stir.

    Add potatoes, chicken broth and cream.

    Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer until potatoes are almost tender, about 10 minutes.

    Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

    Au Gratin Potatoes or Potatoes with Cheese

    Dump mixture into a bowl, or just use the same pot off heat, and add cheeses and gently stir until blended. You want the cheese spread evenly throughout the dish.

    Transfer mixture to a deep 8x8 inch baking dish or the equivalent.

    Press into an even layer.

    Sprinkle evenly with cheese of your choice. We always put the cheddar on first and the parmesan on top.

    Bake until cream is bubbling around the edges and top is golden brown, about 15 minutes.

    Broil if necessary to brown the cheese to your liking.

    Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

    Serve and enjoy!

    An overhead photo of cheesy potato casserole dish with a portion missing and the serving spoon. A small plate with some potatoes on it is beside the casserole dish.

    Quick and Easy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

    Here are some tips and suggestions for making this Quick and Easy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

    • Use a shallow casserole dish to ensure a quicker cooking and reheating time
    • Ultimately, baking time will depend on how thinly you were able to slice your potatoes so please adjust your cooking time accordingly, poke potatoes with a knife or fork and once your potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted to your liking on top your dish is ready to eat
    • Try adding cooked meat: ham, ground beef, sausage or bacon (strip or back, peameal or Canadian bacon), leftover roast beef, pulled pork or chicken at least once and serve this dish as a main course
    • Feel free to switch which cheeses you use every time you make this wonderful potato side or main course, maybe use an old cheddar for bolder flavor or a gruyere or gouda cheese for a little different taste
    • If you love onions and garlic, feel free to add more
    • Add as much cheese to the top of this Quick and Easy Scalloped Potato Recipe as you would like and be sure to include a mixture of cheeses as well, your taste buds will thank you
    • Broil at the end of baking these Simple Scalloped Potatoes to brown the cheese on top, the casserole will look and taste even better

    Can you make Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

    This recipe is perfect to make ahead. You have two options.

    Prepare the recipe according to directions right up until the point that you are going to sprinkle cheese on top. Instead of putting these scalloped potatoes in the oven, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

    When you are ready to bake, remove the dish from your fridge up to an hour before it is going in the oven. You are trying to get the dish to room temperature so it heats up evenly.

    Gently toss your potato mixture and add cheese to the top if you are using it and bake as directed.

    Your second option is to prepare your scalloped potatoes according to directions and allow them to cool totally to room temperature.

    Next, cover tightly with aluminum foil and store in your fridge for up to three days, including the day you made it.

    When getting ready to bake, remove from the fridge and allow the dish to rest on the counter for between 45 minutes and an hour. Next, bake at 350 degrees, still covered in foil, for 25 to 30 minutes or heated through.

    I usually remove the tinfoil at about the 25 minute mark to check on the potatoes and leave them uncovered so I can keep an eye on them until they are done.

    A shallow dish will reheat much quicker than a deep dish, if that makes sense, so I always have to consider which dish I use to make these potatoes too.

    Poke the potatoes with a knife or fork and if tender throughout your dish is done!

    How Do You Store Leftover Scalloped Potatoes?

    Store your leftover cheesy scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. My husband says four but I would go with three!

    Can You Freeze Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

    Unfortunately, I find that both potatoes and cream sauces don't freeze well at all and this dish is no exception. I wish I had better news.

    Technically, though, you can freeze this dish but I have to warn you that the texture of the potatoes and the taste of the dish will change and in my opinion not for the better.

    You can just freeze the easy scalloped potatoes in the dish they were baked in, but covered tightly with plastic wrap and then tinfoil.

    When ready to serve, remove from your freezer and leave in your fridge to defrost the day before you want or need it.

    Put it in your oven at 350 degrees for around 30 minutes or heated through.

    Again, only freeze Scalloped Potatoes if you have to, as I doubt you will be pleased with the results.

    A closeup of a small plate of cheesy scalloped potatoes on a light green napkin.

    Other Great Potato Recipes

    Slow Cooker Bacon Breakfast Potatoes

    Potato, Onion, Carrot and Green Bean Casserole

    Oven Roasted Carrots and Potatoes

    Slow Cooker Scalloped Alfredo Potatoes and Cauliflower

    The Ultimate Volcano Potato

    Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole

    Cheesy Ranch Twice Baked Potato Boats

    Little Alfredo Bacon and Cheese Potatoes

    Awesome Cheesy Twice Baked Potato Boats

    Fully Loaded Smashed Potatoes

    Blossoming Potato

    Mom’s Swedish Potatoes

    Fully Loaded Hasselback Potatoes

    Crunchy Cheesy Potatoes

    Baked Parmesan Potato Halves

    Cheesy Baked Bacon Ranch Little Potatoes

    Supreme Mashed Potato Casserole

    Cheesy Bacon Potato Bites

    Casserole dish with cheesy scalloped potatoes in it and a serving spoon. A small plate with a fork is beside it.

    Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Video

    Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

    Baked Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

    Baked Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a simple dish with sliced potatoes, onions and cheese baked in the most flavorful, creamy cheese sauce ever!
    5 from 9 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine American

    Equipment

    • saucepan
    • casserole dish

    Ingredients
      

    • 5 med-large russet or Idaho potatoes peeled, ⅛-1/4 inch slices
    • 1 large onion, diced
    • 2 tblsp garlic, minced
    • 2 cups cheddar , shredded to taste
    • 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated or shredded to taste
    • ½ cup chicken broth
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 3 tblsp unsalted butter
    • 1 tblsp thyme, dried
    • 2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon pepper

    Topping

    • ½ cup parmesan more or less to taste
    • ½ cup cheddar more or less to taste

    Instructions
     

    • Get out all of your ingredients and get them measured and ready to go!
      Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
    • Slice your potatoes to between ⅛ and ¼ inch thick. Rinse and set aside.
      Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
    • Preheat your oven to 425 degrees.
    • Melt butter in large pot over medium heat.
    • Add onion and cook until tender, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.
      Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
    • Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir.
      Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
    • Add potatoes, chicken broth and cream.
      Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
    • Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer until potatoes are almost tender, about 10 minutes.

    Au Gratin Potatoes or Potatoes with Cheese

    • Dump mixture into a bowl, or just use the same pot OFF HEAT, and add cheeses and gently stir until blended. You want the cheese spread evenly throughout the dish. 
      Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
    • Transfer mixture to an 8x8 inch baking dish or the equivalent. Press into an even layer.
      Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
    • Sprinkle evenly with cheese of your choice. We always put the cheddar on first and the parmesan on top.
      Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
    • Bake until cream is bubbling around edges and top is golden brown, about 15 minutes.
      Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
    • Broil if necessary to brown the cheese to your liking.
    • Allow to stand or rest for 10 minutes before serving.
    • Serve and enjoy!
      Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
    • Ultimately, baking time will depend on how thinly you were able to slice your potatoes so please adjust your cooking time accordingly. Poke your potato dish with a knife or fork and once your potatoes are tender, and the cheese is melted to your liking on top, your dish is ready to eat!
    Keyword baked sausages, cheesy, ground beef, ham, leftover, main course, potato, scalloped potato
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    Small plate of cheesy scalloped potatoes with a fork. Part of the casserole dish is visible with some cheesy scalloped potatoes missing.

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. ohhhmeohhhmy

      December 26, 2022 at 2:00 pm

      5 stars
      Excellent dish. I used a mix of sharp and mild cheddar -- turned out great! Leftovers reheated nicely too 🙂

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken

        December 26, 2022 at 2:23 pm

        Well thank you for your kind words. I’m so glad you enjoyed those potatoes as much as we all do. Enjoy the rest of your day! Karin

    2. Linda

      February 04, 2022 at 11:39 am

      5 stars
      This was a winner. I've tried different recipes over the years and this one is the 1st one that was to my liking. Thank you!

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken

        February 18, 2022 at 11:37 am

        You're most welcome! I feel the exact me way! all the best. Karin

    3. Grammasue

      September 24, 2021 at 5:25 pm

      5 stars
      These are amazing Karin. I like that you cook the potatoes ahead of baking. I am thinking next time I might cook them them ahead, then put the pot in refrigerator until closet to the time when company arrives. Do you think this method might work? Thanks so much for sharing!

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken

        September 28, 2021 at 5:25 pm

        I worry about the potatoes sitting inside the pot for any length of time. How about just making the casserole without the extra cheese on top and heating it in the oven when they arrive? I remove it from the fridge about an hour before I want to bake it to allow it to come to room temperature. After the chill is gone I add more cheese all over the top and bake it as I would normally. In my opinion that is the way to do it! Glad you enjoy this recipe as much as we do! Take care and all the best. Karin

    4. Sharon Naismith

      February 18, 2020 at 1:50 pm

      You asked about where the term “scalloped” came from. If you do an internet search on “armored turnips”, you’ll find medieval period recipes that pre-date potatoes in Europe.
      The recipe calls for sliced turnips and sliced cheese. The scalloped design probably represented a type of armor that the dish recreates.

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken

        February 20, 2020 at 7:27 pm

        I CAN'T THANK YOU ENOUGH! Believe it or not I started reading about it and completely forgot to thank you! I apologize. I had no idea and I am a history lover, especially with food! I truly wish you all the best and hope you give this wonderful recipe a try! Be well. Karin

    5. Kris

      February 12, 2020 at 9:28 am

      5 stars
      Everyone loved it will definitely make again

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken

        February 12, 2020 at 9:31 am

        That is great! I’m glad the potatoes were a success! Hopefully you find some other recipes on this site that you enjoy just as much! All the best. Karin

      • Christine Waggoner

        February 17, 2020 at 1:46 pm

        Use a mandolin slicer and your potatoes will all be evenly sliced thin. These sound good, but I prefer the old fashioned layered scalloped potatoes.

      • Karin and Ken

        February 17, 2020 at 6:38 pm

        You are so right about the mandolin. I can’t believe I waited so long to get one myself! I used to be big on layers as well and now this is my goto. You never know it might be worth a try!? Regardless take care and hopefully you find some other recipes on this site that you want to try! Be well. Karin

    6. Maxine

      February 12, 2020 at 9:24 am

      5 stars
      Delicious with ham and sweet potatoes will make again Thank you Karin

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken

        February 12, 2020 at 9:26 am

        As always you are most welcome! Glad you enjoyed it and I bet the sweet potatoes were a wonderful addition! Take care and enjoy your day! Karin

    7. Karen

      February 12, 2020 at 9:10 am

      5 stars
      Definitely a keeper will try next time with ground beef.Used ham this time and was best ever I had THANK YOU for another great recipe

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken

        February 12, 2020 at 9:22 am

        This dish is delicious with ground beef too! As a matter of fact these potatoes are terrific with everything! Take care and enjoy your day! Karin

    8. Sandra

      February 12, 2020 at 9:06 am

      5 stars
      Just amazing Thank you for sharing!

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken

        February 12, 2020 at 9:08 am

        As always you are most welcome! Glad I am not the only one who loves these potatoes! Take care and enjoy your day! Karin

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    Welcome!

    Ken and Karin

    We are the kitchen divas: Karin and my partner in life Ken.

    We have been attached at the heart and hip since the first day we met, and we love to create new dishes to keep things interesting. Variety is definitely the spice of life!

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