Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

 

Title: Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Side Dish

If there’s one dish that never fails to impress at the dinner table, it’s a bubbling pan of scalloped potatoes. But when you take that classic creamy, cheesy goodness and load it up with smoky bacon, melty cheese, and fresh green onions? Now you're talking next-level comfort food.

Loaded Scalloped Potatoes are everything you love about a fully dressed baked potato—transformed into a decadent, shareable side dish. They’re rich, savory, and indulgent enough to steal the spotlight from the main course.

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What Makes Them ‘Loaded’?

Traditional scalloped potatoes rely on thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce—simple and satisfying. But this recipe takes it a step further by adding all your favorite “loaded” baked potato toppings right into the layers:

• Crispy bacon

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Green onions

• Sour cream or cream cheese (optional, but amazing)

• A dash of garlic and paprika for extra flavor

It’s the kind of dish that makes people go back for seconds—even if they swore they were “too full.”

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Perfect For...

• Holiday dinners (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter)

• Family gatherings or potlucks

• Sunday roasts or steak night

• A cozy weeknight comfort food fix

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The Anatomy of Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

1. The Potatoes:
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for scalloped dishes—they slice well and hold their shape while soaking up all that creamy sauce.

2. The Sauce:
This version uses a velvety béchamel base (butter, flour, and milk), seasoned with garlic, salt, pepper, and a touch of smoked paprika. Then comes the cheese—sharp cheddar for richness, plus some cream cheese or sour cream for tang.

3. The Layers:
Thin layers of potatoes are stacked with shredded cheese, bits of bacon, and green onions between each. Once assembled, it’s topped with even more cheese and baked until golden and bubbling.

4. The Finish:
A sprinkle of bacon crumbles and chopped scallions just before serving gives it that signature “loaded” look—and an irresistible crunch-meets-cream texture.

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Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

• Slice Thinly & Evenly: A mandoline makes this easy and helps ensure the potatoes cook evenly.

• Don’t Rush the Bake: Low and slow gives you soft, fork-tender potatoes and allows the sauce to thicken properly.

• Let It Rest: After baking, let the dish sit for 10–15 minutes to set up. This makes it easier to slice and serve.

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Make It Your Own

• Swap in ham or sausage for bacon.

• Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

• Use a mix of cheeses—Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Parmesan all work beautifully.

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Final Thoughts

Loaded Scalloped Potatoes are the kind of dish that turns a regular dinner into a full-blown comfort food celebration. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving something cozy, this recipe brings the flavor, the warmth, and a whole lot of cheesy joy.

One pan, endless compliments. Don’t be surprised if it becomes the most requested dish at your next gathering.