4-Ingredient Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
If you’re looking for a simple scalloped potatoes recipe that delivers big comfort with minimal effort, this 4-ingredient cheesy scalloped potatoes dish is one you’ll want to make again and again. Made with thinly sliced russet potatoes, cream, cheese, and salt, this classic baked side dish proves that you don’t need a long ingredient list to create something rich, creamy, and crowd-pleasing.
Inspired by traditional French potato gratins and old-fashioned family recipes, these easy baked scalloped potatoes are perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, Sunday suppers, or weeknight meals. The oven does most of the work, leaving you with tender potatoes layered in a silky cream sauce and topped with golden, melted cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe:
Only 4 simple ingredients budget-friendly and pantry-friendly
Easy to prepare no pre-cooking or complicated steps
Ultra-creamy and cheesy comfort food at its best
Perfect make-ahead side dish for holidays and gatherings
Versatile pairs well with chicken, beef or fish
This recipe is ideal if you’re searching for easy scalloped potatoes, cheesy potato casserole, or classic baked potato side dishes.
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
2 cups shredded cheese (sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend)
2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1 to 1½ teaspoons kosher salt, to taste
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or oil.
Slice the potatoes thinly and evenly using a sharp knife or mandoline.
In a bowl, stir the salt into the cream until dissolved. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Layer one-third of the potatoes in the baking dish. Sprinkle with one-third of the cheese and pour over one-third of the cream.
Repeat the layers twice more, finishing with cheese on top. Gently press down so the cream settles between the slices.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, until the potatoes begin to soften and the sauce bubbles.
Uncover and bake for another 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a knife slides easily through the potatoes.
Rest for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and set.
Serving Ideas:
These creamy scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with:
Roasted or grilled chicken
Meatloaf
Baked salmon or roast beef
Holiday turkey
Add a crisp green salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or steamed green beans to balance the richness.
Tips & Variations:
Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce
Mix cheddar and Gruyère for deeper flavor
Add Parmesan on top for extra browning
Make ahead and reheat for stress-free entertaining
