If you are craving a comforting and indulgent side dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is just what you need. This classic Southern favorite combines tender slices of potatoes with a rich, creamy cheese sauce that melts beautifully and creates a delightful, golden crust on top. It’s the perfect blend of buttery goodness, subtle spice, and cheesy flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to bring a bit of Southern hospitality and cheesy comfort right into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dish comes together effortlessly, delivering maximum taste and texture. Each element plays a crucial role, from the smooth, creamy sauce to the crispy cheese topping.
- Potatoes (4 cups thinly sliced): Choose russet or Idaho for their perfect ability to absorb flavors and bake into tender, creamy layers.
- Unsalted butter (3 Tbsp): Adds richness and helps build that luscious roux base for the sauce.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Provides a gentle aromatic backdrop that uplifts the entire dish.
- Nutmeg (1/4 tsp): Just a pinch brings a warm, subtle spice that enhances the savory cheese flavor.
- All-purpose flour (3 Tbsp): Essential for thickening the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency.
- Whole milk (1-1/2 cups): Creates the velvety base that binds everything together.
- Kosher salt (1 tsp): Balances all flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- Ground red pepper (a pinch): Adds a delicate spicy kick that keeps the dish interesting.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups grated, divided): The star ingredient for that gooey, cheesy appeal.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup grated): Adds a nutty, salty finish that crisps up on top.
- Paprika (1/8 tsp, optional): For a pop of color and a mild smoky flavor.
How to Make Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Start by gathering all your ingredients and slicing the potatoes thinly—this is key for even cooking and a silky texture. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to make sure it’s ready when your dish is assembled.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a medium skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter and gently cook the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Add the flour and whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth and bubbling lightly, about a minute. This step builds the base that will give the scalloped potatoes their creamy body.
Step 3: Add the Milk and Seasonings
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking nonstop to prevent lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and starts to boil gently. Then, stir in the salt, red pepper, and nutmeg. This blend of seasoning ensures every bite is bursting with balanced flavor.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Turn the heat down to low and fold in one and a half cups of sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and silky smooth, then take the skillet off the heat to keep the sauce warm while you layer up your potatoes.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Coat a two-quart baking dish with non-stick spray. Pour one cup of the cheese sauce evenly over the bottom, then layer half of the potatoes on top, spreading them out evenly to ensure all get coated.
Step 6: Add More Sauce
Pour half of the remaining cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it out evenly to cover every slice—this is where all the cheesy, creamy magic happens.
Step 7: Repeat Layers
Layer the rest of the potatoes on top and pour over the remaining cheese sauce, making sure to coat every layer for that signature scalloped effect.
Step 8: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top followed by the Parmesan cheese, setting the stage for a delicious golden crust once baked.
Step 9: Bake
Cover your dish tightly with a lid or foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the cover and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Test the tenderness with a fork; it should slide in easily through the potatoes.
Step 10: Final Touch
If you’d like, sprinkle a small pinch of paprika for an extra splash of color and a hint of smokiness. Serve immediately for the best cheesy, creamy experience.
How to Serve Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a lovely burst of color and freshness that brightens the rich cheese sauce. Sprinkle some extra grated cheese on top if you’re serving it hot and fresh to keep things gooey and delicious.
Side Dishes
This cheesy scalloped potato dish pairs beautifully with classic Southern mains like fried chicken or glazed ham. For a lighter complement, a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables are perfect for balancing the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this dish in individual ramekins for personal portions, making your guests feel extra special. You can also top it with crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions to add layers of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making your leftovers taste even better the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, so if you want to prep in advance, assemble and bake it fully, then cool completely before wrapping tightly and placing it in the freezer. It will keep up to 2 months and reheats beautifully.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to keep the moisture in, about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. For a quicker fix, microwave in short bursts, stirring gently between to maintain the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes in this recipe?
Absolutely! While russet or Idaho potatoes are best for their texture and ability to soak up the sauce, Yukon Gold potatoes work well too, offering a creamy texture and buttery flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the butter with vegan margarine, use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and try dairy-free cheese alternatives for a similar cheesy, creamy result.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely. You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead, cover it tightly, and keep it refrigerated. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s straight from the fridge.
What can I add to make this dish more flavorful?
Try mixing in sautéed onions, cooked bacon, or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the layers for an extra flavor boost that complements the classic cheesy sauce.
How thick should the potato slices be?
About 1/8 inch thick is ideal. Thin slices cook evenly and become tender without needing too long in the oven, preventing the dish from becoming too heavy or mushy.
Final Thoughts
Diving into a serving of Easy Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket of comfort and flavor. It’s a dish that brings people together, makes holidays warmer, and ordinary meals extraordinary. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover just how effortless it is to create such a timeless classic in your own kitchen.
