If you are craving something deeply comforting and truly luxurious, this Indulgent Scalloped Potatoes with Three Cheeses Recipe is guaranteed to bring that warm, melt-in-your-mouth satisfaction to your table. Layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes are bathed in a velvety sauce crafted from sharp cheddar, nutty Gruyère, and rich Parmesan cheeses, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection. This dish not only dazzles the eye with its golden crust but also fills your senses with a rich aroma and flavors that speak to pure indulgence. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, these scalloped potatoes are an unforgettable side that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this dish. Each component is chosen to build depth, creaminess, and a perfect cheesy balance that makes this recipe shine. From the buttery potatoes to the trio of cheeses, every element plays a crucial role in the final texture and flavor.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes (4 cups, sliced into 1/8-inch rounds): These provide a creamy texture and hold their shape beautifully when baked.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons for greasing plus roux): Essential for that silky cheese sauce and to prevent sticking.
- All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup): This helps thicken the sauce into the perfect glossy consistency; use gluten-free flour if preferred.
- Whole Milk (2 cups): Adds creaminess and smoothness to the sauce; almond milk works well for a lactose-free option.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Offers indulgent richness that makes this recipe stand out.
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts subtle savory notes without overpowering the dish.
- Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle depth of flavor that complements the cheese.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that enhance all the layers of flavor.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Brings a bold, tangy kick that cuts through the creaminess.
- Gruyère Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts beautifully and adds a smooth, nutty essence.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Sprinkled on top for a crispy, flavorful crust.
How to Make Indulgent Scalloped Potatoes with Three Cheeses Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the time to generously butter your baking dish’s bottom and sides with unsalted butter; this not only prevents sticking but adds a subtle richness to the edges where the cheese sauce meets the dish. This little step ensures everything bakes evenly and cleanly.
Step 2: Slice the Potatoes
Slice your Yukon Gold potatoes into uniform 1/8-inch thick rounds for even cooking. The thinner slices will soften perfectly and soak up that luscious cheese sauce, creating layers of creamy, tender goodness.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce Base
On medium heat, melt a portion of your unsalted butter in a saucepan and whisk in the flour to create a roux. This step is crucial—it thickens the sauce and smooths out the texture. Gradually add the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to keep the sauce velvety and free of lumps. Let it simmer gently until it thickens just right.
Step 4: Flavor the Cheese Sauce
Season your béchamel with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to build layers of subtle flavor. Then stir in the sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, melting them slowly into the warm sauce to create a rich, cheesy mixture that promises indulgence in every bite.
Step 5: Layer Potatoes and Sauce
Layer half of your potato slices neatly in the greased dish, then pour half of your cheesy sauce across them. Repeat this layering with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce, creating a dreamy stack of creamy, cheesy layers. Finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top to add that perfect golden crust.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes, allowing the potatoes to steam and soften inside the sauce. Then remove the foil and bake for another 25 to 30 minutes to achieve a beautifully browned and bubbly surface that’s irresistible to dig into.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Let your scalloped potatoes rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This resting time helps the sauce thicken a bit more and makes it easier to serve perfect slices that hold their shape beautifully—giving you that picture-perfect cheesy side dish.
How to Serve Indulgent Scalloped Potatoes with Three Cheeses Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley add a pop of vibrant color and a light, fresh contrast to the rich, creamy potatoes. A small pinch of smoked paprika or crispy fried shallots on top can also elevate the dish with a subtle smoky crunch that’s simply irresistible.
Side Dishes
This indulgent dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats such as chicken, beef, or ham. For a vegetarian feast, serve alongside steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad to balance all that cheese with crisp, crunchy freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, consider serving the scalloped potatoes in individual ramekins for a charming presentation. Layering thin slices of heirloom potatoes can add color and make the dish even more visually stunning. Alternatively, sprinkle extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy, golden crust that’s eye-catching and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover scalloped potatoes should be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and creamy for 3 to 4 days, making them perfect for quick reheats during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish if packaged well in a freezer-safe container. Keep in mind that freezing may slightly change the texture of the potatoes, but the flavors will stay wonderfully intact. Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality.
Reheating
Reheat your scalloped potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, until heated through. This technique helps maintain the creamy texture and revives the golden crust. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but you may lose some of the crispiness on top.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Indulgent Scalloped Potatoes with Three Cheeses Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan create a balanced flavor, feel free to experiment with fontina, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for a unique twist that suits your taste.
What type of potatoes works best for scalloped potatoes?
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape but also become tender. Russets are starchier and may break down more, creating a different texture that might be less desirable for this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting the milk with almond or oat milk, using dairy-free butter alternatives, and choosing plant-based cheeses, you can enjoy a dairy-free version. Just expect a slight difference in creaminess but still delicious results.
How thick should I slice the potatoes for this recipe?
Slice the potatoes about 1/8 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the cheesy sauce thoroughly. Thicker slices can result in uneven cooking.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?
You can assemble the scalloped potatoes a day ahead, cover, and keep in the fridge. When ready, bake it fresh—just add extra baking time if it’s chilled straight from the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting and downright irresistible about this Indulgent Scalloped Potatoes with Three Cheeses Recipe. With its layers of creamy, cheesy, perfectly cooked potatoes, it hugs your taste buds and leaves you wanting another bite. Whether it’s a holiday spread or a weekday treat, give yourself the gift of this rich and satisfying dish—you won’t regret it!
Print
Indulgent Scalloped Potatoes with Three Cheeses Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulgent scalloped potatoes baked to golden perfection, layered with a rich three-cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan. This creamy, comforting side dish combines tender Yukon Gold potato slices with a velvety roux-based cheese sauce, seasoned with garlic and onion powder for an irresistible flavor. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 cups Yukon Gold Potatoes (sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds)
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (for greasing the dish and sauce)
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (substitute with gluten-free flour if needed)
- 2 cups Whole Milk (or almond milk for lactose-free option)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (for richness)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Gruyère Cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for baking the scalloped potatoes.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease the bottom and sides of your baking dish thoroughly with unsalted butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Slice Potatoes: Peel if desired, then slice the Yukon Gold potatoes into 1/8-inch thick rounds for even cooking and layering.
- Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, then whisk in the flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly to avoid browning.
- Add Liquids and Thicken: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Season Sauce: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste to build a flavorful base for the cheese sauce.
- Melt Cheeses: Remove the sauce from heat and add the sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses. Stir until fully melted and smooth to create a creamy cheese sauce.
- Layer Potatoes and Sauce: Place half of the sliced potatoes in the greased baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes, then repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Add Parmesan Topping: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer to create a deliciously golden crust during baking.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes to cook the potatoes through.
- Uncover and Brown: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Let the scalloped potatoes cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set for easier slicing and enhanced flavors.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch (adjust quantities accordingly).
- Use almond milk or other dairy-free milk as a substitute for whole milk to make the dish lactose-free.
- Slice potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking and texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
- Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor profile if desired.
