Cheesy Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

Name: Cheesy Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch rounds; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste; ½ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste; 3 cups whole milk, at room temperature; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (with half reserved for topping); 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (with half reserved for topping); 6 slices thick-cut beef bacon, cooked and crumbled (with half reserved for topping); ¼ cup fresh chives, finely chopped; Additional salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

By:

Marla Jennings

February 8, 2026

Cheesy loaded scalloped potatoes with delicious melted cheese and creamy layers.

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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, rich allure of Cheesy Loaded Scalloped Potatoes. This indulgent side dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or a cozy meal on a chilly evening. Imagine the delight on your loved ones’ faces as they scoop into layers of tender potatoes, luscious cheese, and crispy bacon. One bite is enough to transport you to the heart of comfort cooking, and trust me, it’s hard to go back once you’ve tried it!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

What sets these Cheesy Loaded Scalloped Potatoes apart? For starters, they strike the perfect balance between creamy gooeyness and crispy toppings. This recipe comes loaded with flavor, thanks to sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and savory beef bacon. Not only is it incredibly satisfying, but it’s also remarkably easy to prepare, making it an excellent option for a weeknight treat or a weekend feast.

“Absolutely delicious! My family couldn’t get enough. It was the highlight of our Sunday dinner!” – Sarah K.

How to Make Cheesy Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

To create these decadent Cheesy Loaded Scalloped Potatoes, follow this simple process. You’ll be layering thinly sliced potatoes with a creamy cheese sauce, all topped with crispy bacon and more cheese. The result? An irresistible dish that’s sure to steal the show.

Step-by-Step Overview:

Prepare your ingredients.
Make the creamy cheese sauce.
Layer the potatoes and sauce.
Bake until bubbly and golden.
Serve and enjoy!

Ingredients

What You’ll Need

3 pounds russet potatoes (approximately 8-10 medium-sized potatoes), peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch rounds
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
3 cups whole milk, at room temperature
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (with half reserved for topping)
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (with half reserved for topping)
6 slices thick-cut beef bacon, cooked and crumbled (with half reserved for topping)
¼ cup fresh chives, finely chopped
Additional salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Note: Feel free to swap russet potatoes for Yukon Gold for an extra buttery flavor, or substitute crumbled turkey bacon for a lighter option.

Directions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Potatoes: Begin by peeling and thinly slicing 3 pounds of russet potatoes. Place the slices in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. This step helps to remove excess starch, ensuring they bake up nice and fluffy.
Cook the Bacon: Cook 6 slices of thick-cut beef bacon in a skillet until crispy. Once done, drain on paper towels, crumble into small pieces, and set aside about half for topping.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in ½ cup of all-purpose flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of room-temperature whole milk, stirring until smooth. Continue to simmer until the mixture thickens, about 5-8 minutes.
Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella until melted and creamy. Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Layer the Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Drain the potato slices and begin layering them in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Start with a quarter of the cheese sauce and a third of the crumbled bacon. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with the remaining potatoes, cheese sauce, and reserved cheeses and bacon on top.
Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Let it Rest: Allow the dish to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish generously with ¼ cup of finely chopped fresh chives. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These Cheesy Loaded Scalloped Potatoes are best served alongside a variety of dishes. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats like steak or chicken, or you might enjoy them next to a fresh green salad. For a hearty brunch, consider serving them with a fluffy quiche or eggs any style. Garnished with extra chives or a sprinkle of paprika adds a lovely touch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Cheesy Loaded Scalloped Potatoes fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. If you want to freeze the dish, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Soaking the Potatoes: Don’t skip the soaking step! It really makes a difference by removing excess starch, allowing for better texture.
Room Temperature Milk: Make sure the milk is at room temperature before adding it to the roux; this helps the sauce blend smoothly without lumps.
Crispy Bacon: For the best bacon crispiness, try to cook it directly before you start layering, or pop it in the oven for even cooking.

Creative Twists

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the cheese sauce for an aromatic twist.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy flavor profile.
Vegan Option: Substitute dairy-free cheese and incorporate a plant-based milk option for a dairy-free version.

Common Questions

How long does prep time take?

Prep time typically takes about 30-40 minutes, especially for slicing the potatoes and cooking the bacon.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese blends. Gruyère or pepper jack can add unique flavors.

Is it safe to reheat leftovers?

Yes, as long as you store leftovers properly, they can be safely reheated. Just ensure they are heated thoroughly before serving.

How can I make this gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the sauce without gluten.

Embrace the comforting, cheesy goodness of these Loaded Scalloped Potatoes, a dish that is straightforward yet packs a flavor punch. Your family is sure to ask for seconds! Enjoy!