If you’re looking for a side dish that goes above and beyond the ordinary, Loaded Scalloped Potatoes are the answer. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with bacon and green onions, these potatoes are a comforting blend of richness and savory depth that pairs well with almost anything on the dinner table.

Each forkful is silky with the softness of thinly sliced potatoes layered in a luscious cheese sauce and topped with crisp, smoky bacon. It’s the kind of dish that never sees leftovers, making it ideal for holidays, potlucks, or simply upgrading your weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

This version of scalloped potatoes takes all the best parts of the classic and adds an irresistible twist. By loading it up with cheese, bacon, and green onions, you get a side that feels indulgent but still familiar. The creamy texture from the homemade roux-based cheese sauce is next-level comfort food, while the bacon adds just the right amount of crunch and salt.

If you’re cooking for a crowd or want a cozy dish for cooler months, this recipe brings both the flavor and the wow-factor to the table.

What Kind of Potatoes Work Best for Scalloped Potatoes?

Russet potatoes are the traditional choice for scalloped potatoes because they become wonderfully tender and soak up the cheese sauce. Yukon Golds are another great option if you prefer a creamier texture with a bit more bite. Either way, make sure to slice them thinly and evenly for the best results.

Ingredients for the Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

Loaded Scalloped Potatoes rely on a few key ingredients to create a rich and hearty dish. Here’s what you’ll need and why each element matters:

Russet potatoes: Their starchy nature helps thicken the sauce and turn wonderfully tender when baked.
Butter: Starts the roux and brings a depth of flavor to the cheese sauce.
All-purpose flour: Helps create a thick, smooth sauce that clings to every layer of potato.
Milk: The base of the sauce, lending creaminess and body.
Heavy cream: For added richness and a velvety texture.
Cheddar cheese: Melted into the sauce and layered throughout for bold flavor.
Cooked bacon: Adds crunch and a smoky contrast to the creamy potatoes.
Green onions: Brighten up the dish and offer a mild bite.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the layers just right.

How To Make the Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and slice your potatoes into thin, even rounds. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick so they cook through and layer nicely.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for a minute to eliminate the raw taste. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in most of the cheese, saving a little for topping.

Step 3: Layer and Assemble

Grease a baking dish and layer half of the potatoes in the bottom. Pour over half of the cheese sauce, then sprinkle in some crumbled bacon and green onions. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and toppings. Finish with the reserved cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the potatoes rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to settle.

Serving and Storing Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

This dish feeds about 6 to 8 people as a side and is best served hot, right out of the oven. It pairs perfectly with roasted meats, barbecue, or holiday spreads. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

To freeze, assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and bake as directed, adding 10-15 extra minutes.

What to Serve With Loaded Scalloped Potatoes?

Roasted Chicken

Juicy roasted chicken makes a wholesome and classic pairing.

Honey-Glazed Ham

The salty-sweet flavor of ham complements the creamy richness of the potatoes.

Grilled Steak

For a hearty meal, nothing beats a grilled ribeye alongside these potatoes.

BBQ Ribs

That sticky, smoky flavor is the perfect partner to a cheesy, potato-packed bite.

Green Salad

A crisp salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness.

Steamed Broccoli

Adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the dish well.

Garlic Butter Shrimp

A more unexpected choice, but the contrast is totally crave-worthy.

Cornbread

For a Southern-inspired meal, cornbread and scalloped potatoes are a dream combo.

Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If you love these Loaded Scalloped Potatoes, you’ll definitely want to try more of our comforting sides:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a filling one-dish meal.
Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce when you’re craving layers of cheese and pasta.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a cozy skillet dinner.
Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake to keep those veggies irresistible.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for when you want simple comfort food with smoky flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the bacon? Try a different cheese blend? I love seeing how everyone makes these their own.

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