Easy Scalloped Potatoes That Bring Comfort to Every Holiday Table

Last Updated on November 21, 2025 by Chef Josie

Few side dishes feel as warm, nostalgic, and universally loved as a bubbling dish of Easy Scalloped Potatoes. Tender potato slices layered in a creamy, velvety sauce and baked until golden create a holiday classic that pairs with everything from beef tenderloin to glazed ham. Whether you are planning Christmas Menu Ideas, assembling Christmas Food Dinner options, or searching for crowd pleasing Thanksgiving Recipes Side Dishes, this recipe delivers guaranteed comfort.

I first made these scalloped potatoes during a busy Christmas Eve when I needed something foolproof yet luxurious. As the dish baked, the aroma of cream, garlic, and melted cheese filled the air. Family members gathered near the oven waiting for the timer to ring. When it finally emerged, its golden top and creamy layers became an instant tradition. Now it appears at every Thanksgiving, Christmas Supper Idea, and even casual winter dinner.

This version of Easy Scalloped Potatoes is simple, rich, and perfect for cooks of all skill levels. It incorporates classic flavors with a creamy texture that makes every bite unforgettable.

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Why You Will Love These Easy Scalloped Potatoes

• A reliable, comforting side for Christmas Dinner Ideas Family
• Creamy, cheesy layers with perfectly tender potatoes
• Simple ingredients that come together easily
• Perfect for Easy Christmas Dinner Ideas or Thanksgiving Cooking
• Pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, seafood, or vegetarian mains
• Freezer friendly and make ahead friendly for stress free entertaining
• A must have addition to Christmas Food Ideas For Dinner

Ingredients Breakdown

These are the key components that make this Scalloped Potatoes Cheesy recipe extra delicious:

• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Golds work best for tender layers
• Butter: Forms the base of the creamy sauce
• All purpose flour: Thickens the sauce without making it heavy
• Heavy cream or whole milk: Creates the velvety texture
• Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic flavor
• Cheddar cheese: For classic Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe richness
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the layers evenly
• Paprika or thyme (optional): Adds a touch of color and holiday flavor

Substitutions

• Use Gruyere for deeper flavor
• Replace cream with milk for a lighter option
• Add caramelized onions or ham for variation
• Make dairy free with plant based cream and cheese substitutes

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and butter a large baking dish.
2. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly and evenly. A mandoline makes this step much quicker.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour. Cook until lightly golden.
4. Slowly pour in the cream or milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
5. Add garlic, salt, pepper, and half of the cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
6. Layer the potatoes in the baking dish, pouring a small amount of sauce over each layer.
7. Continue layering until all potatoes and sauce are used.
8. Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top.
9. Cover with foil and bake until potatoes are tender.
10. Uncover and continue baking until the top turns bubbly and golden.
11. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving so the layers hold together perfectly.

Notes and Top Tips

• Slice potatoes thinly to ensure they cook evenly
• Always heat the milk or cream before mixing for a smoother sauce
• For a deeper color, broil the top for one minute at the end
• Make ahead by assembling the dish and baking just before serving
• Add fresh herbs for Christmas Eve Dinner Ideas or Thanksgiving Dishes
• Use a mix of cheeses for extra richness and flavor

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving Ideas

• Serve with roasted turkey, beef, lamb, or ham
• Pair with roasted vegetables for a full holiday meal
• Ideal for Christmas Meal Ideas or Potato Recipes Side Dishes all year

Variations

• Cheddar and Gruyere blend for fancy holiday flavor
• Add bacon or pancetta for smoky richness
• Add thin slices of sweet potatoes for a layered color effect
• Use garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers for up to four days
• Reheat in the oven at 325 degrees to maintain creaminess
• Freeze baked scalloped potatoes for up to two months
• Thaw overnight before reheating
• Reheat covered so the top does not dry out

Why You Will Make It Again

These Easy Scalloped Potatoes are the kind of timeless recipe every holiday table deserves. They bring warmth, comfort, and classic flavor to Christmas Menu Ideas, Thanksgiving Recipes Side Dishes, and winter gatherings. If you try this recipe, share your review and explore more Christmas Dinner Ideas Family favorites on the blog.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for one day. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use pre shredded cheese?
Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly, but packaged cheese works if needed.

How do I keep my scalloped potatoes from curdling?
Use full fat dairy and avoid high oven temperatures. Bake low and slow.

Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
Yes. Bake fully, cool completely, then freeze. Reheat covered to restore creaminess.

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