Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for Christmas Dinner Recipe

If you’re looking to add that ultimate comfort food flair to your holiday table, this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for Christmas Dinner Recipe is an absolute winner. I’ve made it year after year, and every time it’s a crowd-pleaser — creamy, cheesy, and perfectly tender. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, making it a standout among all the festive sides.

What I love most about this recipe is how it strikes the perfect balance between cheesy richness and subtle seasoning with onion and garlic powder, all wrapped in that velvety cream and milk sauce. It’s surprisingly simple to master, yet impressive enough to serve to guests or impress your family. Trust me, once you try these cheesy scalloped potatoes, you’ll be reaching for the recipe every holiday season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a special role here, blending into that creamy, cheesy sauce that envelopes the tender sliced potatoes. Shopping tip: pick starchy potatoes like Russets, as they bake up nicely soft and soak in that sauce beautifully.

• Potatoes: Go for firm, starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold for perfect tenderness.
• Mozzarella: Provides gooey stretchiness – fresh shredded works best.
• Cheddar: Adds sharp, savory depth; a medium cheddar balances creaminess.
• Cream: Use heavy cream for richness, but half-and-half works if you’re aiming lighter.
• Milk: Helps thin the sauce and keep it silky smooth.
• Butter: Melted — helps with that roux base for the sauce.
• Flour: Thickens the sauce; be sure to cook it through to avoid a raw taste.
• Onion powder: Adds subtle savory flavor without overpowering.
• Garlic powder: Just enough to enhance, not dominate.
• Salt: Essential for balancing the flavors.
• Black pepper: For a mild bite and warmth.
• Parsley or dill: Fresh herbs for garnish to brighten the dish.

Variations

I love tweaking this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for Christmas Dinner Recipe depending on mood and who I’m cooking for. Feel free to personalize it — that’s part of the fun! Whether you want to sneak in extra veggies or try a different cheese, make it yours.

• Herb twist: I sometimes add fresh thyme or rosemary with the garlic powder for an earthy note that’s fantastic for winter dinners.
• Spicy kick: A dash of cayenne or smoked paprika can add a subtle warmth that wakes up the classic flavors.
• Veggie boost: Thin slices of cooked mushrooms or caramelized onions layered between the potatoes add extra depth and texture.
• Dairy-free option: I’ve swapped cream and milk for coconut or cashew cream with great results — just adjust seasoning to taste.
• Bake in individual portions: If you’re cooking for a crowd, try this recipe in small ramekins for cute, personalized servings.

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for Christmas Dinner Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes Just Right

Peel your potatoes (or leave the skin on for a more rustic feel), then slice them evenly — about 1/8 inch thick is perfect. I use a mandoline slicer because it saves time and keeps the slices uniform, which means they cook evenly. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife will work, just take your time.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to form a roux. This is key — cook the flour and butter for 1-2 minutes until it smells nutty and looks smooth to avoid any raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream to avoid lumps. Add the onion and garlic powders, salt, black pepper, and let it thicken gently while stirring. Off the heat, stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted.

Step 3: Layer and Bake with Care

Butter a baking dish well to prevent sticking. Arrange half your sliced potatoes in an even layer, pour over half the cheese sauce, then repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake another 20 minutes to get that golden top bubbling and delicious. When done, the potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork.

How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for Christmas Dinner Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle fresh parsley over the top – it adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby brightness that cuts through the richness. Sometimes dill is my go-to for a more distinct flavor, especially if I’ve gone heavy on the garlic powder. Plus, you can’t go wrong with an extra sprinkle of cracked black pepper right before serving.

Side Dishes

These scalloped potatoes are rich and filling, so I usually balance the plate with something green and light. Roasted Brussels sprouts, a crisp green salad, or sautéed green beans are favorites of mine to serve alongside. If you want to keep the festive mood, a cranberry relish on the side adds a sweet-tart contrast that’s just perfect.

Creative Ways to Present

For Christmas dinner, I sometimes bake the potatoes in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a charming personal touch. It feels special and everyone gets their own cheesy, bubbling portion. Another trick I love is topping the dish with a crispy layer of panko breadcrumbs or even crushed Ritz crackers for extra crunch under the broiler.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the big meal, I transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The potatoes tend to firm up, but the flavor only intensifies overnight, making for even more delicious next-day bites.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish successfully by letting it cool completely, then wrapping it tightly in foil and placing it in a freezer bag. It keeps well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop the potatoes into a 350°F oven, covered loosely with foil, for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. Removing the foil during the last 5 minutes brings back that lovely golden crust. Avoid microwaving if you can; the texture isn’t quite the same.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for Christmas Dinner Recipe is more than just a side dish—it’s a tradition worth keeping on your holiday table. I cherish the cozy memories it brings with each bite, and I hope you’ll enjoy making it for your family and friends just as much. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is really easy to pull together, so go ahead and treat yourself this season!

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