SOUTHERN SCALLOPED POTATOES
Creamy, Cheesy, and Baked to Perfection
Southern Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort-food side dish. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a rich homemade cheese sauce and baked until perfectly tender, creamy, and golden brown on top. This classic Southern favorite is a staple at holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, and family celebrations thanks to its simple ingredients and irresistible flavor.
INGREDIENTS
For the Potatoes
- 2½ lbs (1.1 kg) potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Topping
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Remaining cheddar cheese
INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue cooking for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Minced garlic
Stir well, then add half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Layer the Potatoes
Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish.
Top with a portion of the sliced onions and spoon some of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
Repeat the layers until all potatoes, onions, and sauce have been used.
Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Finish with the grated Parmesan cheese for an extra golden and flavorful crust.
Bake Until Golden
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake for 40 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is beautifully golden brown and bubbly.
Let It Rest
Remove from the oven and allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken and makes serving easier.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
These creamy Southern Scalloped Potatoes pair wonderfully with:
- Roasted chicken
- Baked ham
- BBQ ribs
- Grilled steak
- Pork chops
- Holiday turkey
SOUTHERN COOKING TIPS
Slice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
Yukon Gold potatoes create an extra creamy texture.
Add crispy bacon pieces between the layers for even more flavor.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking for a crunchy topping.
Let the dish rest before serving to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- Rich and creamy homemade cheese sauce
- Tender layers of perfectly cooked potatoes
- Golden, bubbly cheese topping
- Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for holidays, potlucks, and family dinners
Creamy, cheesy, buttery, and baked until golden—Southern Scalloped Potatoes are a timeless comfort-food classic that everyone will love. 
