If you’re craving a comforting side that feels like a warm hug, I’ve got just the thing for you: Creamy Cheesy Potatoes. This dish is a sublime blend of tender Yukon Gold slices bathed in a luscious mixture of melted butter, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and a hint of garlic, baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Every bite bursts with velvety creaminess and cheesy goodness that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these Creamy Cheesy Potatoes add that irresistible richness you just can’t resist.

Creamy Cheesy Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your ingredients right is key to making these Creamy Cheesy Potatoes unforgettable. Each component is simple yet essential, combining to create an irresistible medley of flavors and textures that sing together when baked.

Yukon Gold potatoes: Their creamy texture and natural buttery flavor make them perfect for tender layers that hold up beautifully during baking.
Heavy cream: Adds a rich, silky smoothness that envelops every potato slice in lushness.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Brings a bold, tangy punch and melty goodness, but be sure to save some for that cheesy topping.
Mozzarella cheese: Offers gooey stretch and a mild creaminess, balancing the sharper flavors.
Sour cream: Infuses a subtle tang and extra smooth texture that elevates the creaminess factor.
Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed in for rich, buttery undertones throughout the dish.
Garlic: Fresh minced cloves give a fragrant, savory depth that complements the cheeses perfectly.
Salt and black pepper: Basic but essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
Paprika (optional): Sprinkled on top for a mild smoky kick and pretty color contrast.
Green onions: Chopped and sprinkled as a fresh, bright garnish to finish off the dish.

How to Make Creamy Cheesy Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s just right when you’re ready to bake those dreamy layers of potatoes and cheese. Meanwhile, wash, peel, and slice your Yukon Gold potatoes into thin, even slices about 1/4 inch thick—consistency here is key for even cooking and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 2: Par-Cook the Potatoes

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the sliced potatoes. Let them cook gently for about 10 to 12 minutes until they’re tender but still firm enough to hold their shape. This step prevents them from turning mushy once baked and keeps the texture just perfect. Drain and set these beauties aside.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Cheesy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika if you’re using it. Once combined, fold in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses—reserve a handful for the topping later. This mixed cheese and cream blend is the heart of the dish, promising silky, cheesy indulgence.

Step 4: Layering the Potatoes

Grab a baking dish and layer half of your cooked potatoes evenly on the bottom. Pour over half of your creamy cheese mixture, ensuring every potato slice gets enveloped in that luscious sauce. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese mixture, creating layers of creamy cheesy goodness that will melt and meld during baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Scatter the reserved cheese over the top, adding a bit more paprika for a splash of warmth and color if you like. Cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in and bake in your preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil for the last 15 minutes so the top gets beautifully golden and bubbly, the sign that your Creamy Cheesy Potatoes are ready to dazzle.

Step 6: Garnish and Rest

Once out of the oven, give your dish a few minutes to set before serving. This helps everything settle into that amazing creamy texture. Sprinkle generously with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant zing that cuts through the richness perfectly.

How to Serve Creamy Cheesy Potatoes

Garnishes

Adding the right garnishes takes this dish from delicious to unforgettable. Fresh chopped green onions brighten the dish with a mild oniony crunch, while a light sprinkle of paprika adds smoky warmth and a pop of color that looks irresistible. Feel free to add a dollop of sour cream or a few crispy bacon bits for an extra special touch.

Side Dishes

Creamy Cheesy Potatoes shine best alongside hearty mains like roasted chicken, juicy steak, or tender pork chops. They also pair beautifully with steamed veggies or a crisp green salad, offering a balance of richness and freshness on your plate. This combo guarantees a well-rounded, satisfying meal every time.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress your guests, serve these potatoes in individual ramekins or cast iron skillets for a rustic touch. For a twist, try layering in a casserole with caramelized onions or chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary stirred into the cheese mixture. You can even top with toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch contrast that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making reheated Creamy Cheesy Potatoes just as tempting the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Place cooled creamy cheesy potatoes in a freezer-safe container, covering tightly to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. For quicker reheats, microwaving works in a pinch but the oven method helps keep that lovely crispy top and creamy inside.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Absolutely! While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their buttery flavor and texture, Russet potatoes can also work, though they tend to be fluffier and might absorb more liquid. Just keep slices consistent to ensure even cooking.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Sure, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheeses. Just be aware the dish won’t be quite as rich or creamy, but it will still be delicious and comforting.

Can I prepare Creamy Cheesy Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish up to a day before baking. Keep it covered in the fridge and bake just before serving, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from cold.

What if I’m lactose intolerant?

For a lactose-free version, use lactose-free dairy products like lactose-free cream and cheeses, or try plant-based cream and vegan cheese alternatives. The texture might vary slightly but you can still enjoy creamy cheesy flavors.

How do I make the top extra crispy?

Try removing the foil during the last 15 minutes of baking to let the cheese bubble and brown. For an even crispier finish, sprinkle a little panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before that final bake.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like diving into a plate of warm, velvety Creamy Cheesy Potatoes. With their perfect balance of rich cream and melty cheese layered between tender potatoes, this dish is pure comfort in every bite. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find a new favorite to bring along to every family dinner or special occasion. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll be requested time and time again!

Creamy Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 29 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Creamy Cheesy Potatoes recipe features tender Yukon Gold potatoes baked in a rich, savory mixture of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, heavy cream, and flavorful seasonings. Topped with bubbly golden cheese and garnished with fresh green onions, this dish makes a comforting and indulgent side perfect for any meal.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking your potatoes evenly.
Prepare Potatoes: Wash and peel the Yukon Gold potatoes, then slice them thinly and evenly about 1/4 inch thick to allow for uniform cooking.
Parboil Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the potato slices, and cook for 10-12 minutes until just tender but still holding shape. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Make Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika until well blended for a creamy base.
Add Cheeses: Fold the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the cream mixture, reserving some cheese to sprinkle on top later.
Assemble Layers: In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked potatoes evenly; pour half of the cheese mixture over them. Repeat this layering with the remaining potatoes and cheese mixture.
Add Topping: Sprinkle the reserved cheese evenly over the top layer of potatoes. Optionally, add a little extra paprika for color and flavor.
Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the potatoes to finish cooking.
Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes until the cheese topping is bubbly, golden brown, and slightly crisp.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped green onions before serving to add freshness and color.

Notes

Use Yukon Gold potatoes as they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture when cooked.
Parboiling the potatoes ensures they cook evenly and absorb the cheesy sauce better.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Feel free to add cooked bacon or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking, Boiling
Cuisine: American