Looking for a side dish that steals the show? Look no further than loaded scalloped potatoes. This classic comfort food gets a delicious upgrade with layers of cheese, crispy bacon, and savory spices. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining guests, this dish delivers flavor, warmth, and indulgence in every bite.
Why Loaded Scalloped Potatoes Are a Must-Try Dish
Scalloped potatoes have always been a dinner staple. But when you load them up with bold flavors like sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and creamy béchamel sauce, they transform into something truly unforgettable. They’re rich, satisfying, and perfectly golden on top.
This dish is more than a side; it’s an experience. The tender potato layers soaked in creamy, cheesy goodness make it an irresistible addition to any table. It’s comfort food at its best.
Essential Ingredients for Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
Using quality ingredients is the key to making the best loaded scalloped potatoes. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons butter, unsalted
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients combine to create a luxurious sauce that soaks into each layer of potatoes. The bacon adds crunch and a smoky finish, while the cheeses bring gooey perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
1. Prep the Potatoes
Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Use a mandoline or sharp knife to cut them into thin, even slices—about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform thickness ensures even cooking.
2. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Cook for about one minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Gradually pour in the milk and cream, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Add garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Once the sauce is smooth and thickened, remove it from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Mix until fully melted and creamy.
3. Layer the Potatoes and Sauce
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Begin layering the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Add a generous ladle of cheese sauce over the top. Sprinkle a layer of chopped bacon. Repeat this process until all potatoes, sauce, and bacon are used, finishing with a thick layer of cheese sauce on top.
Baking Instructions
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Check doneness by inserting a fork into the center. If it slides through easily, your potatoes are perfectly tender.
Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and enhances flavor.
Tips to Elevate Your Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
- Use a mix of cheeses: Combine cheddar for sharpness and mozzarella for that gooey stretch. Gouda or Monterey Jack also work well.
- Add herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary adds an earthy note that complements the richness.
- Use smoked bacon: It adds deeper flavor and extra crispness.
- Include caramelized onions: For a sweet-savory contrast, mix in caramelized onions between layers.
Make-Ahead Instructions for Busy Cooks
This dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. Simply assemble everything, cover tightly with foil, and chill for up to 24 hours. When you're ready, bake directly from the fridge—just add 10–15 minutes to the total cook time.
Leftovers also reheat beautifully. Store them in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Serving Suggestions
Loaded scalloped potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes:
- Roast chicken – the crispy skin and juicy meat are a perfect match
- Glazed ham – sweet meets savory for a holiday-worthy combo
- Grilled steak – rich beef flavor complements the creamy potatoes
- Roast turkey – ideal for Thanksgiving or any festive meal
Add a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
Perfect for Holidays and Special Occasions
Scalloped potatoes are a holiday staple for a reason. Their warmth and decadence make them ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. They’re also excellent for potlucks, family reunions, or Sunday dinners.
Want to impress your guests? Serve this dish in a beautiful ceramic baking dish and top with fresh herbs before serving. The golden top and melted cheese will draw everyone to the table.
Healthier Alternatives Without Sacrificing Flavor
If you’re watching calories or prefer a lighter version, you can still enjoy loaded scalloped potatoes. Here’s how:
- Use reduced-fat milk and cheese
- Swap cream for Greek yogurt
- Try turkey bacon or omit bacon entirely
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients
The result is still creamy and delicious but with fewer calories and more vegetables.
Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
This dish is a hit with kids thanks to its cheesy flavor and creamy texture. The crispy bacon adds a fun crunch they love. You can even add extras like diced ham or shredded chicken to turn it into a complete meal.
Make it in muffin tins for mini individual servings that are perfect for parties or lunchboxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
Yes, but texture may change slightly. Freeze after baking. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes. Yukon golds and red potatoes work, though russets yield the creamiest texture.
How do I avoid watery scalloped potatoes?
Ensure the sauce is thick before layering. Drain potatoes if soaking beforehand to remove excess moisture.
Can I add meat to make it a main dish?
Absolutely. Add diced ham, shredded rotisserie chicken, or crumbled sausage between layers.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
These values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion size.
The Final Scoop
Loaded scalloped potatoes are more than just a side dish—they’re a full-flavored, cheesy comfort food experience. With rich layers of creamy potatoes, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and perfectly balanced spices, they’re bound to be the most requested dish at your table.
Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday dinner, a backyard barbecue, or a cozy night at home, this recipe never disappoints. It's easy to make, customizable, and always satisfying.
So go ahead—give these loaded scalloped potatoes a try. You’ll be amazed by how quickly they vanish from the serving dish.