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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes With A Spoon Lifting A Creamy Serving.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

This rich, creamy, and cheesy scalloped potato dish is a family favorite, perfected over the years to achieve the ultimate balance of flavor and texture. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for holidays and gatherings.
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Mandoline Slicer
  • 9x13 Ceramic Baking Dish
  • Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan
  • Box Grater
  • Aluminum Foil

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2.5 lb Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick
  • 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese freshly grated
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated, reserved for topping

Cream Sauce

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 sweet onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream warmed
  • 0.5 cup whole milk warmed
  • 0.25 cup chicken broth warmed
  • 1.5 tsp sea salt
  • 0.75 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves only
  • 1/8 tsp nutmeg

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9x13 ceramic baking dish generously.
  • Peel and thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline (1/8-inch thick).
  • Grate the cheeses. Mix cheddar and Gruyère together in one bowl, reserve Parmesan separately.
  • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt butter over medium heat until foamy.
  • Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
  • Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until a golden roux forms.
  • Gradually whisk in the warm cream, milk, and broth until smooth.
  • Stir in salt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg. Simmer until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of the cheddar-Gruyère mixture to melt into the sauce.
  • Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
  • Layer one-third of the potato slices, followed by one-third of the sauce and cheese mixture. Repeat twice more.
  • Top with remaining cheese mixture and the reserved Parmesan.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  • Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbling.
  • Let rest for 15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Notes

Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add 15 minutes to baking time if cold.
Variations: Add diced ham, crispy bacon, or fresh herbs like parsley and chives for different twists.
Serving ideas: Pairs well with ham, roast chicken, steak, or a fresh salad.
Keyword Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, Comfort Food, Holiday Side