These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes (Potatoes au Gratin) are rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy! A perfect comfort food classic, this dish is great for holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion. The golden, bubbling cheese on top gives them a deliciously crispy crust, while the tender, layered potatoes soak up all the creamy goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
Ultra Creamy & Cheesy – The cheddar cheese sauce is silky, smooth, and rich.
Perfect Side Dish – Goes well with roast chicken, steak, ham, or grilled veggies.
Great for Meal Prep – Can be made ahead and reheated beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 cups thinly sliced potatoes – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best.
3 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and depth.
3 tablespoons flour – Helps thicken the cheese sauce.
1 ½ cups milk – Whole milk is best for creaminess.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
1 dash cayenne pepper – Adds a subtle spicy kick.
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese – The key to a creamy, flavorful sauce.
½ cup extra cheese (for topping) – Creates a golden, bubbly crust.
Paprika (optional, for garnish) – Gives a beautiful color boost.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Cheese Sauce

 In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
 Stir in flour and let it cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
 Slowly whisk in cold milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
 Season with salt and cayenne pepper.
 Cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and begins to boil.
 Reduce heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

2. Layer the Potatoes & Sauce

 Lightly grease a 1-quart casserole dish.
 Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer.
 Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
 Repeat with another layer of potatoes and the remaining cheese sauce.
 Sprinkle the extra cheese on top.
 Add a dash of paprika for a beautiful golden color.

3. Bake to Perfection

 Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
 Bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Tip: If the top starts browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 15 minutes.

Pro Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes

Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
Slice Potatoes Evenly – Uniform slices ensure even cooking. Use a mandoline slicer for perfect thin cuts.
Don’t Skip the Cayenne – It adds just the right amount of warmth without being spicy.
For Extra Creaminess – Substitute ½ cup of milk with heavy cream.
Make it Ahead – Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Serving Suggestions

With Steak or Roast Beef – A classic steakhouse-style pairing.
Next to Roast Chicken or Turkey – A holiday-worthy side dish.
With Grilled or Roasted Vegetables – Adds a cheesy contrast to fresh veggies.
Topped with Bacon Bits – Because bacon makes everything better!

Why These Scalloped Potatoes Are a Must-Try

This recipe is simple, timeless, and incredibly satisfying. The tender, creamy potatoes smothered in rich, cheesy goodness make this the ultimate side dish for any meal. Whether for Sunday dinner, a potluck, or Thanksgiving, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to.

Try it once, and you’ll see why thousands of people LOVE this recipe!

Save & Share this Recipe! Have you tried these scalloped potatoes? Let me know how they turned out in the comments!