Cheesy Scalloped Potato Bake: The Best Creamy Side Dish Ever!

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Today, I’m super excited to share with you one of my absolute favorite side dishes that never fails to impress—my Cheesy Scalloped Potato Bake. This recipe is a game-changer for any meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special holiday gathering. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect for those quick family dinners when you need something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, cheesy goodness that’s sure to please everyone
• Perfect for quick family dinners or special occasions
• Easy to make ahead and reheat
• Pair it with your favorite main dishes for a complete meal
• Customizable to suit your taste preferences

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this mouthwatering dish:

1. Preheating ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the potato bake inside, allowing for even cooking and preventing the dish from becoming soggy.

2. Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes to about 1/8 inch thickness. Uniformly thin slices are crucial for even cooking. You can use a mandoline for speed and consistency, or a sharp knife. If using a knife, aim for consistent thickness to ensure all slices cook at the same rate and become tender at the same time. Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning and to remove excess starch, which will contribute to a creamier sauce.

3. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Sautéing the onion first mellows its harshness and brings out its sweetness, creating a more nuanced flavor base for the sauce.

4. Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Cooking the flour removes the raw flour taste and allows it to properly thicken the sauce. The mixture should be smooth and slightly bubbly.

5. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Whisk continuously to ensure a smooth sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Simmering allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.

6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. The heat from the sauce will melt the cheese. Season with salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and dried thyme. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it will flavor the entire dish.

7. Drain the potato slices and pat them dry with paper towels. Drying the potatoes helps the sauce adhere better and prevents excess moisture in the bake. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish (or equivalent), layer about one-third of the potato slices in an even layer. Pour about one-third of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of cheese sauce. Layering ensures that each potato slice is coated in the creamy sauce, creating a cohesive and flavorful bake.

8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Covering with foil prevents the top from browning too quickly and allows the potatoes to steam and cook through properly. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden brown and bubbly. Baking uncovered for the last portion of the cooking time allows the top to become beautifully golden and cheesy.

9. Let the Cheesy Scalloped Potato Bake rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Resting allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld further, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Cheesy Scalloped Potato Bake turns out perfectly:

• Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor
• Don’t skip the resting time – it makes a big difference
• Customize with your favorite herbs or spices
• Make ahead and refrigerate or freeze for later

How to Serve

This Cheesy Scalloped Potato Bake is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Try serving it alongside:

• Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes
• Sweet and Savory Glazed Sausage and Potatoes
• Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinner ideas or special occasions. Here’s how to store it:

• Prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

There you have it, folks! A delicious, creamy, and cheesy scalloped potato bake that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for easy pasta recipes, quick family dinners, or 30-minute meals, this dish is a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner ideas. Happy cooking!