Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

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There’s something magical about layers of creamy potatoes, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon baked to golden perfection. That’s exactly what loaded scalloped potatoes deliver—a decadent side dish that brings smiles to every table it graces. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a Sunday dinner, or just a cozy family night in, this comforting recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a bubbling tray of flavor-packed goodness.

Not only will you learn how to master the art of this rich and creamy dish, but we’ll also explore flavorful variations, ideal pairings, make-ahead tips, and more. If you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, you’ll find everything you need in this complete guide to loaded scalloped potatoes.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes to compare variations and keep things interesting!

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Why Loaded Scalloped Potatoes Are a Must-Try Side Dish

A Twist on the Classic Scalloped Potatoes

Traditional scalloped potatoes are already a comfort food favorite—but when you load them up with crispy bacon, extra cheese, and aromatic chives, you take things to a whole new level. This recipe adds bold flavor without complicating the process. It’s like the lovechild of baked potatoes and a creamy casserole—what’s not to love?

What Makes Them “Loaded”

The term “loaded” isn’t just for fun. These scalloped potatoes are packed with indulgent ingredients like thick-cut bacon, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and a luscious homemade roux-based cheese sauce. Add to that a garnish of fresh chives or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Each bite delivers layers of rich, smoky, cheesy flavor.

When to Serve This Indulgent Recipe

Loaded scalloped potatoes fit beautifully into any meal plan. They’re a showstopper on holiday tables and equally satisfying as a weeknight treat. Think Christmas dinner, Thanksgiving feast, Easter brunch, or your next potluck gathering. Even better, it pairs seamlessly with meats, veggies, and savory breads.

Don’t miss our Twice Baked Potato Casserole for another creamy, bacon-packed favorite!

Must-Have Ingredients for the Best Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

Choosing the Right Potatoes for Texture

Russet potatoes are the go-to for their starch content, which helps create that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth bite. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, Yukon Golds also work well. Slice them thinly and evenly—using a mandoline is a game-changer for consistent cooking.

The Best Cheeses for Creaminess and Flavor

For the ultimate cheese pull and rich flavor, sharp cheddar and mozzarella are the dream team. Cheddar brings tanginess while mozzarella adds that stretchy, gooey texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in Gruyère, Fontina, or Monterey Jack. Cheese choice can completely transform the flavor profile.

Bacon, Chives, and Flavorful Extras That Matter

Thick-cut bacon holds its own against the creaminess of the dish. Crumble it generously between the layers and on top for that signature “loaded” finish. Chopped chives or green onions bring a fresh finish and slight bite that balances the richness. A touch of garlic powder or smoked paprika can deepen the flavor too.

Check out our Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole for a hearty meat-and-potatoes combo your family will love.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

How to Slice and Prep the Potatoes Like a Pro

After rinsing and peeling, slice the potatoes into 1/8-inch rounds. A mandoline slicer keeps everything uniform, which helps ensure even cooking. Soak the slices briefly in water, then pat dry to remove excess starch—this prevents clumping and keeps the sauce silky.

Building the Perfect Cheese Sauce

Start by making a simple roux: melt unsalted butter and whisk in flour, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness), stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Then stir in half the cheese blend, letting it melt completely into a velvety base.

Want a next-level creamy flavor? Don’t miss our Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes—they melt in your mouth!

Layering, Baking, and Browning for That Golden Top

In a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish, fan the potato slices across the bottom. Pour the cheese sauce generously over each layer, followed by crumbled bacon. Top the final layer with more cheese and a few bacon bits. Bake covered at 375°F for 60 minutes. Then uncover and broil for 2–3 minutes to brown the top until it’s bubbly and golden.

Discover great ideas like Crispy Hasselback Potatoes if you’re looking for more potato-based side options with crisp texture and visual wow.

Variations to Customize Your Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

Vegetarian, Turkey Bacon, or Extra Spicy

While the original version leans into bacon-loaded indulgence, it’s easy to make it fit different dietary needs or preferences. Going meatless? Simply skip the bacon or swap it with plant-based alternatives like crispy vegetarian bacon or sautéed mushrooms for an umami punch. For a lighter take, turkey bacon works great—it’s leaner and still gives that salty crunch.

Craving a bit of heat? Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes between layers. Smoked paprika, cayenne, or chipotle powder can give your cheese sauce a spicy, smoky edge. The beauty of this dish is how easy it is to customize.

Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly Tips

One of the best things about loaded scalloped potatoes is how well they hold up when made ahead. You can fully assemble the dish—potatoes, cheese sauce, bacon—then tightly wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let the dish sit at room temp for 30 minutes before it hits the oven.

Want to freeze it? Assemble and freeze before baking. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 90 minutes, removing foil in the final 10–15 minutes to crisp the top. You can also freeze fully cooked leftovers and reheat them later for a quick, satisfying side.

Don’t miss our Crockpot Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes for another make-ahead meal that delivers both ease and flavor.

Low-Carb and Dairy-Free Modifications

Following a low-carb plan? Replace potatoes with thinly sliced turnips or cauliflower for fewer carbs but a similar texture. It won’t be exactly the same, but you’ll still get a rich, cheesy bake.

For dairy-free needs, use plant-based butter, unsweetened almond or oat milk, and dairy-free shredded cheese. Brands like Daiya or Violife melt well and hold up to baking. Be sure to use a thickener like cornstarch or arrowroot in place of flour for the roux.

Best Main Dishes to Serve With Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

Holiday Pairings Like Ham and Turkey

Loaded scalloped potatoes practically beg to be on your holiday table. Their creamy texture and bold flavors balance perfectly with traditional meats like honey-glazed ham or roasted turkey. That cheesy richness plays so well against the sweet-savory glaze of a ham or the crisp skin of a buttered bird.

If oven space is tight during the holidays, consider using an air fryer for your protein. Discover great ideas like Air Fryer Turkey Breast to save time and space.

Everyday Meals – Chicken, Pork, and More

This dish doesn’t have to wait for the holidays. It pairs beautifully with everyday proteins like grilled chicken thighs, baked pork chops, steak bites, or even a hearty meatloaf. The creamy potatoes offer a filling balance to leaner meats and add comfort to any weeknight meal.

Consider pairing them with BBQ-style mains—the smoky bacon and cheddar in the potatoes complement grilled ribs or pulled pork incredibly well.

Fresh Veggie Sides for Balance

Because loaded scalloped potatoes are so rich, a fresh vegetable side can help balance the meal. Roasted asparagus, garlic green beans, or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette are ideal. Even better? Serve with some crisp apple slaw or a tangy cucumber salad to cut through the richness.

Pair it all with some warm bread—soft dinner rolls or a crusty French baguette—and you’ve got yourself a complete, crowd-pleasing spread.

Expert Tips for Storing and Reheating Leftovers

How to Keep the Texture Creamy

The key to great leftovers is proper storage. Let the dish cool fully before transferring to an airtight container. A glass dish works best if you plan to reheat in the oven. When stored properly in the fridge, it will keep for 3–4 days.

To retain that dreamy, creamy texture, avoid microwaving it straight from the fridge. Let it come to room temperature first, then reheat gently. Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to revive the cheese sauce if it starts to dry out.

Oven vs. Microwave – What Works Best

For best results, reheat your scalloped potatoes in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes. Cover with foil to keep moisture in, then uncover for the last 5 minutes to restore that golden top.

Microwaving is faster but comes with a tradeoff—less crisp, more steam. If you’re short on time, it’ll still taste delicious, but the texture may soften more than you’d like.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make loaded scalloped potatoes the night before?

Yes, this dish is ideal for prepping ahead. Assemble everything—potatoes, cheese sauce, bacon—then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Let the dish sit out for about 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature.

What’s the difference between scalloped and au gratin potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes are usually baked in a cream or milk-based sauce, while au gratin potatoes are layered with cheese and often topped with breadcrumbs. In this “loaded” version, you get the best of both: rich, cheesy layers with a golden top—no breadcrumbs needed.

How do I avoid curdling in the cheese sauce?

The key is controlling your heat. Cook the roux and milk over medium heat, and once thickened, remove it from the burner before adding cheese. Stir in cheese gradually off the heat to avoid clumping or separating.

Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?

Absolutely. While sharp cheddar and mozzarella create a great base, you can experiment with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a hint of blue cheese for extra depth. Mixing multiple cheeses can bring layered flavor to the dish.

How many people does this dish serve?

A standard batch (using 3 pounds of potatoes) typically serves 10–12 people as a side dish. For larger gatherings, you can double the recipe and bake it in a larger casserole or roasting pan.

Conclusion – Comfort in Every Cheesy Layer

From holiday celebrations to cozy weeknight dinners, loaded scalloped potatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and layers of tender potato slices bring a satisfying, indulgent warmth to the table that’s hard to beat. Whether you stick with the classic version or explore the creative variations we’ve outlined, this dish earns its place in your go-to side collection.

So next time you need a comfort food hero, let this cheesy potato bake steal the show.
Looking for more cozy comfort food ideas? Don’t miss our Cheesy Meatball Bombs for another family favorite loaded with flavor!

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