Golden, bubbly, and packed with flavor, these Scalloped Potatoes with Three Cheeses are the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a holiday feast, this side dish is bound to steal the spotlight. Each layer is smothered in a luxurious blend of sharp cheddar, creamy Gruyère, and a punch of Parmesan—melting into the creamiest, most flavorful sauce that hugs every tender slice of potato.
What makes these scalloped potatoes truly special is the balance of rich, nutty cheese flavors with the soft, delicate texture of thinly sliced Yukon Golds. The bake creates irresistibly crispy edges while the center stays decadently gooey. Serve it with your favorite roast or make it a meal on its own with a green salad on the side.
What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?
Yukon Golds are the top pick for this dish. Their buttery texture and ability to hold shape while baking make them ideal for layering. Russets work too if you’re after a fluffier bite, but they may not hold their structure as beautifully.
Ingredients for the Scalloped Potatoes with Three Cheeses
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How To Make the Scalloped Potatoes with Three Cheeses
Step 1: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook off the raw flavor. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Cheeses
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until melted and smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the dish. Pour over half of the cheese sauce. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce. Top with Parmesan.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly on top. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Serving and Storing Scalloped Potatoes with Three Cheeses
This dish is best served hot and fresh out of the oven, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of color and brightness. Pair it with a roast, grilled vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
To store leftovers, let the potatoes cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How thin should the potatoes be sliced?
Aim for about 1/8-inch thickness. A mandoline slicer works best for consistent, even slices that cook evenly.
Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely. Fontina, Monterey Jack, or even smoked Gouda can bring a unique twist to the flavor profile.
Is it okay to prep this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use all whole milk, though the sauce may be slightly less rich. For a lighter option, try half-and-half.
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
It’s best not to, as the texture can change significantly after freezing. The sauce may become grainy.
How do I get a crispy top?
Remove the foil during the last 20-25 minutes of baking and make sure to sprinkle cheese on top. Broil for a few minutes at the end if desired.
Want More Potato Side Dish Ideas?
If you loved these cheesy scalloped potatoes, don’t miss these crave-worthy dishes:
- Funeral Potatoes for a comforting, crunchy casserole.
- Mexican Potatoes for a spicy, flavorful spin.
- Oven Roasted Root Vegetables if you’re craving a rustic, earthy side.
- Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes with loads of flavor and texture.
- Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a main that pairs beautifully with scalloped potatoes.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so it’s ready for your next cozy dinner night.
And tell me how yours turned out! Did you add bacon crumbles or a sprinkle of nutmeg? Maybe swapped in a different cheese?
I’d love to hear your twists and tips. Questions welcome—let’s perfect cheesy potatoes together.
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Scalloped Potatoes with Three Cheeses
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This rich and creamy Scalloped Potatoes with Three Cheeses dish is a decadent, cheesy side that’s perfect for holidays or any comfort food craving. Layers of tender Yukon Golds are smothered in a luscious sauce made from cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan, then baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 4 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook off the raw flavor.
3. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until melted and smooth. Set aside.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the dish. Pour over half of the cheese sauce. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce. Top with Parmesan.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly on top.
8. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
Use a mandoline for perfectly even potato slices.
Letting the dish rest helps the sauce set.
Add a sprinkle of paprika or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of dish
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheesy potato bake, holiday sides
