Golden, bubbly, and irresistibly creamy, Cheesy Potato Gratin (also called Scalloped Potatoes) is the ultimate comfort food casserole. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a rich cream sauce, shredded cheese, and savory seasonings, then baked until tender with a golden crust. Perfect for holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, or a cozy family meal, this recipe is a showstopper side dish that pairs beautifully with roast meats, ham, or turkey.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Potato Gratin

Comfort food classic – cheesy, creamy, golden.
Perfect for holidays – pairs with ham, turkey, or beef.
Customizable – add bacon, ham, or different cheeses.
Make-ahead friendly – ideal for busy gatherings.

Tips for Success

Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin potato slices.
Don’t skip the resting time — it helps sauce thicken.
Mix cheese varieties for depth of flavor.
Slice potatoes just before baking to prevent browning.

Variations & Add-Ins

Loaded Gratin: Add cooked bacon and green onions.
Herb Gratin: Add rosemary or sage for a rustic twist.
Veggie Gratin: Layer in thin zucchini or carrots.
Spicy Gratin: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

Serve with roast turkey or ham at Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Pair with meatloaf or Salisbury steak for a hearty dinner.
Add to a holiday buffet alongside green beans and stuffing.
Enjoy with salad and bread for a cozy vegetarian meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the difference between scalloped potatoes and potato gratin?
Scalloped potatoes are usually baked in cream, while gratin includes cheese. This recipe combines both for extra flavor.

2. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a smoother sauce.

3. Can I freeze potato gratin?
Yes, but texture may soften. Best enjoyed fresh.

4. How do I keep potatoes from curdling in the cream sauce?
Simmer sauce gently and avoid boiling cream. Bake at moderate heat (375°F).

5. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes — simply omit bacon or ham.

Jana Rae

Cheesy Potato Gratin

Creamy cheesy potato gratin made with thinly sliced potatoes, cream, and melted cheese. The perfect scalloped potatoes casserole for holidays or cozy family dinners.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 20

Servings: 8

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 310

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

2 ½ pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion finely chopped
3 cloves garlic minced
2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
1 cup whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyère for richer flavor
½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon thyme fresh or dried
½ teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup cooked bacon or ham chopped (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

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Method

Preheat oven – Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sauté aromatics – In a skillet, melt butter. Sauté onion and garlic until softened and fragrant.
Make the cream sauce – Stir in cream, milk, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
Layer potatoes – Place half the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Pour half the cream sauce over. Sprinkle with half the cheddar and parmesan. Repeat with remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.
Add toppings – Sprinkle cooked bacon or ham on top if desired.
Bake – Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serve – Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.

Notes

Cheese swaps: Try Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella for different flavors.
Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, then bake before serving.
Storage: Refrigerates 3–4 days. Reheat in oven for best texture.
Extra crispy top: Broil 2–3 minutes at the end.