I still remember the very first time I tasted this Scalloped Potatoes Recipe—it was a total flavor explosion that hit me right in the taste buds. I was at this little family gathering, and when the baked potato casserole was brought out, I expected a humble side dish. Nope. Instead, I found myself mesmerized by the creamy scalloped potatoes that were pure velvet with layers of cheesy potato bake goodness. What made this Scalloped Potatoes Recipe unforgettable was how the savory, rich sauce wrapped every thinly sliced potato to perfection. It was like potato au gratin but stepped up with bold flavors and an extra cheesy kick.
This recipe embodies everything Cuba Queen stands for—bold, unapologetic flavor that grabs you and doesn’t let go. I’ve spent countless flavor-testing sessions perfecting this easy scalloped potatoes recipe until it hit that flawless balance of creaminess and cheesy depth. Believe me, when you nail it, every bite feels like a celebration in your mouth.
I’m beyond excited to share the exact Scalloped Potatoes Recipe that has been my go-to whenever I want to turn dinner into an unforgettable flavor adventure. Whether you’re craving a cheesy potato bake or a creamy scalloped potatoes twist, this recipe will elevate your potato game to a whole new level. Get ready to build your own epic baked potato casserole that will have your friends begging for seconds!
Ingredients You Need for This:
This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! Here’s your lineup to create that crave-worthy baked potato casserole.
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced (for creamy scalloped potatoes, this potato is the perfect choice)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing (splurge here for real flavor depth)
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour (trust me, this thickens your cheesy potato bake sauce beautifully)
- 3 cups whole milk (game-changing creaminess over skim or 2%)
- 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded (blend with Gruyere for a luxe cheesy potato bake)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (flavor bomb alert)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (sub dried but fresh kicks it up)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but this lifts the flavor to the next level)
- Parmesan cheese, for a golden crust finish
You’ll find the best Yukon Gold potatoes at your local farmers market or specialty grocery store. Pro tip: Buying cheese from a cheese counter, where they shred fresh for you, gives you that melted cheesy potato bake magic. On a budget? Swap sharp cheddar with a good melting cheese like mozzarella for easy scalloped potatoes that still deliver.
Prep tip: Wash and slice potatoes just before cooking to keep them from browning. If prepping early, toss slices in a bowl of cold water and store in the fridge.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step into flavor heaven with this Scalloped Potatoes Recipe! Follow these steps to get that perfect creamy scalloped potatoes texture.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter your baking dish generously. Don’t stress—this sets the stage for your cheesy potato bake crust.
- Prep your potatoes: Thinly slice your Yukon Golds about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform slices ensure even cooking, no surprises here.
- Make the creamy sauce: Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic—sauté until soft and aromatic. Stir in flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 2 minutes to cook out the “raw” flour taste.
- Slowly add milk while whisking. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens up and coats the back of a spoon (this is your signature creamy scalloped potatoes sauce right here). Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Layer your potatoes evenly in your baking dish. Pour the sauce over the potatoes, making sure every slice is drenched in deliciousness.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This locks in moisture and allows those potato layers to soften perfectly.
- Uncover and sprinkle Parmesan cheese liberally on top. Bake uncovered for another 20 minutes, until golden and bubbly—this part is total potato au gratin magic.
- Test for doneness: Your scalloped potatoes recipe is ready when the potatoes are tender (pierce with a knife easily) and the top is beautifully crisp and golden brown.
Pro tip for Scalloped Potatoes Recipe perfection: Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking. This final step helps the layers set so your cheesy potato bake comes out beautifully intact and picture-perfect.
Troubleshooting: If the sauce is too runny, bake a little longer uncovered; thicker sauce = happier potatoes. If your potatoes are browning too fast, tent with foil.
While your Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is working its magic in the oven, go grab your camera—this dish is pure Instagram gold!
Presentation:
People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Scalloped Potatoes Recipe at dinner parties or holiday feasts. The secret? Presentation that screams flavor celebration.
Pop your cheesy potato bake into a rustic ceramic dish or a vintage cast iron skillet. The golden crust shimmering under soft lighting practically demands attention. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves or chives on top right before serving for that pop of color and fresh flavor.
Pair this scalloped potatoes recipe with bold mains—think spice-rubbed pork chops, citrusy roasted chicken, or a fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette. The creamy scalloped potatoes balance out bold proteins with their silky, cheesy richness.
This baked potato casserole shines during family get-togethers, cozy winter dinners, or any occasion calling for comfort food with attitude. And leftovers? Turn them into loaded potato cakes with a fried egg on top—a crave-slaying twist.
For seasonal flair, try swapping thyme for rosemary in fall or adding caramelized onions in winter. Looking for a Cajun kick? Check out my cajun scalloped potatoes recipe for that extra punch of heat and flavor.
If this recipe rocks your world, you NEED to try other bold versions—Like my cheesy scalloped potatoes or its even creamier cousin. For more flavor adventures with potato au gratin, check out recommendations from I Am Baker and RecipeTin Eats for twist options.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this Scalloped Potatoes Recipe spicier?
A: Absolutely! Add chopped jalapeños or swap smoked paprika for cayenne. My cajun scalloped potatoes recipe also brings a bold, spicy zap you’ll love.
Q: What if I don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes?
A: Russets or red potatoes are solid stand-ins. Just keep slices uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking in your baked potato casserole.
Q: How do I know when my Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is perfectly done?
A: When your knife slides in smoothly without resistance and the top is golden and bubbly—a total flavor jackpot.
Q: Can I prepare this cheesy potato bake ahead of time?
A: For sure! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake covered 10-15 minutes longer to accommodate chilled potatoes.
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Yes! Gruyere adds buttery richness, mozzarella adds meltiness, and Parmesan gives a salty punch. Mix ’em for your perfect cheesy potato bake blend.
Q: Is there a gluten-free way to make this recipe?
A: Swap flour for cornstarch or gluten-free flour blends. Make sure to whisk well to avoid lumps in your creamy scalloped potatoes sauce.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep the creamy texture intact.
Q: Will my potatoes brown in the fridge before cooking?
A: Toss potato slices in cold water immediately after cutting. This stops browning and keeps your scalloped potatoes recipe looking fresh.
Community feedback? Folks are obsessed with how easy scalloped potatoes transform into a dinner party rock star with this recipe. You’ll get rave reviews guaranteed!
Conclusion:
This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe captures everything Cuba Queen stands for—bold, flavorful, and unapologetically fun. It’s creamy scalloped potatoes meets cheesy potato bake with layers of indulgence packed into every bite.
My Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Power Tips:
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for that perfect creamy texture.
- Always let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking.
- Layer the cheese and sauce generously for laser-focused flavor impact.
I’ve created versions with a Cajun twist, a classic cheesy scalloped potatoes elevate, and a smoky smoked paprika spin. The smoked paprika gets the biggest reactions—bold, unexpected, and totally addictive.
This baked potato casserole belongs in your flavor arsenal. Make it your signature dish and watch it become the talk of your table. I’m confident you’ll nail this recipe on your first try—and your friends won’t stop asking for it.
Go ahead—turn your kitchen into a flavor playground, snap those pics, and share your scalloped potatoes recipe adventure with me. Your next biggest flavor memory is waiting. Let’s make it unforgettable!
For even more cheesy scalloped potatoes inspiration, check out these bold recipes from my collection: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes 2, and Cajun Scalloped Potatoes.
Also, don’t miss the flavor-packed takes from these kitchen heroes: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe | I Am Baker, Scalloped Potatoes Recipe – Love and Lemons, and Potatoes au Gratin (Dauphinoise) – RecipeTin Eats.
Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
This creamy and cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe features tender sliced potatoes baked in a rich, savory sauce, perfect as a comforting side dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 4 medium)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until cheese melts.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Repeat with remaining potatoes and cheese sauce, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions between the layers before baking.