Simple Cheesy Potatoes Recipe for Effortless Cooking

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Golden, bubbly, and loaded with cheesy goodness, these Simple Cheesy Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food for any night of the week. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or hosting a potluck, this dish delivers that creamy, irresistible bite every single time.

It comes together with just a few pantry staples, bakes to perfection with minimal effort, and can be prepped ahead for busy days. It’s the kind of recipe you keep coming back to because it’s just that reliable and delicious.

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What Kind of Potatoes Work Best for Cheesy Potatoes?

For that perfect balance of tender and structured, Yukon Golds are the top pick. They hold their shape beautifully while soaking up all that creamy cheese sauce. If you’re in a pinch, russets will do, but they tend to soften a bit more and create a fluffier texture.

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Ingredients for the Simple Cheesy Potatoes

Potatoes: The base of the dish! Choose firm, waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for best texture and creaminess.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Provides that rich, melty layer of flavor. Go for sharp cheddar for extra depth.

Butter: Adds richness and helps carry the cheese flavor throughout.

All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the sauce just enough to coat the potatoes in creamy goodness.

Milk: Use whole milk or 2% to create a velvety sauce that doesn’t break during baking.

Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These two give the dish a gentle savory kick without overpowering the cheese.

Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that wake up all the other flavors.

Fresh Parsley or Chives (Optional): A pop of color and freshness on top once it’s out of the oven.

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How To Make the Simple Cheesy Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds—about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform slices help them cook evenly and soak up all that creamy sauce. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.

Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.

Step 3: Layer the Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and top with the rest of the cheese sauce.

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top for that golden, bubbly finish.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is browned and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Top with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired.

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Serving and Storing Simple Cheesy Potatoes

These cheesy potatoes are best served fresh out of the oven while the top is still golden and the sauce is creamy. Pair them with roasted meats, BBQ, or even a crisp green salad to balance the richness.

Leftovers? You’re in luck. This dish stores beautifully. Let it cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until warmed through—about 20 minutes. It can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cheese can I use besides cheddar?

You can swap in Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even Pepper Jack for a fun twist. Just make sure it melts well.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything a day ahead, cover tightly, and store in the fridge. Bake when you’re ready to serve.

How thin should the potatoes be sliced?

About 1/8 inch thick is ideal. A mandoline slicer works great for consistent slices.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but block cheese you shred yourself melts better and gives a creamier result.

Is it okay to add meat?

Absolutely! Try cooked bacon, diced ham, or ground sausage layered between the potatoes for a heartier version.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

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Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If these cheesy potatoes have won your heart, here are a few more soul-warming dishes you’ll want to try next:

• Try the creamy and flavorful Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup for a cozy bowl of goodness.
• Craving something saucy? The Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup brings all the flavors of lasagna in soup form.
• Add a bit of meat to your bake with the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole.
• For a veggie-packed option, don’t miss the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli.
• And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, the Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is a rich, satisfying pick.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re craving comfort food.

And once you make it, let me know how it turned out! Did you go classic or add bacon? Did you use cheddar or switch things up?

I love hearing how these recipes come to life in your kitchen. If you’re sharing on social, tag me so I can cheer you on.

Looking for more cozy dishes and dinner inspiration? Check out my daily recipe boards on Pinterest @hallarecipes from Life with Jam.

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