Bacon Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes

There’s something about scalloped potatoes that just feels like home. The layers of tender potatoes, the creamy cheese sauce, and the smell of bacon crisping up on the stove — it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the kitchen before it’s even out of the oven.

This Bacon Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes recipe is one of my favorites for family dinners, holidays, or those chilly evenings when you want something hearty and homemade. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavor — every bite is a mix of smoky bacon, creamy cheddar, and perfectly tender potatoes.

Ingredients 

• 4 russet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (a mandolin makes this super easy!)

• 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced into rings

• 1 pack of bacon, cut into small pieces

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste

• 2 cups whole milk, at room temperature

• 1½ cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded

• Madi Kitchen Classic Seasoning, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the bacon

Start by cutting your bacon into small pieces and cooking it in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the bacon is nice and crispy — your kitchen will already start smelling amazing.

Once it’s done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel–lined plate. Drain most of the bacon fat, leaving just about a teaspoon or two in the pan. You want a little of that flavor to linger for the sauce, but not so much that it overpowers the dish.

2. Make the creamy cheddar sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. When it’s bubbling gently, whisk in the flour. Let that cook for about a minute to form a roux — this will help thicken your sauce and get rid of any raw flour taste.

Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly. The mixture will start to thicken after about 5 minutes — be patient, this is where the magic happens. Once it’s smooth and creamy, remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and silky.

Season with kosher salt and a good sprinkle of Madi Kitchen Classic Seasoning (or your favorite house blend). Taste and adjust the seasoning if you’d like a little extra kick.

3. Layer the love

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Layer half of your sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the dish. Scatter half of the onions over top, then half of your crispy bacon. Pour half of that dreamy cheese sauce over the layers.

Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onions, bacon, and the rest of the sauce. Don’t worry if it looks like a lot — the sauce will soak in and make every bite rich and flavorful.

4. Bake until golden and bubbly

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is beautifully golden brown.

You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbling and the top has that irresistible crust of melted cheese.

5. Rest before serving

This might be the hardest step — but let your scalloped potatoes rest for 10–15 minutes after taking them out of the oven. This helps the sauce thicken and the layers settle, making it easier to serve those perfect, creamy slices.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

• Use a mandolin for even potato slices — it ensures the potatoes cook evenly.

• Room temperature milk blends more smoothly into your sauce, preventing lumps.

• Add extra cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking if you like it extra gooey.

• For a little more depth, try using a mix of mild and sharp cheddar.

• Leftovers reheat beautifully — in fact, the flavors get even better the next day!

Serving Suggestions

These scalloped potatoes pair perfectly with roasted chicken, ham, or even a simple green salad for balance. They’re also a wonderful addition to a holiday spread — rich enough to feel indulgent, but familiar and comforting enough to please everyone at the table.

Whether it’s Sunday dinner with family or a cozy night at home, this dish has a way of bringing people together. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth — and your heart with happiness.