US Trends

what kind of cheese for scalloped potatoes

For classic scalloped potatoes, the best cheese is one that melts smoothly and brings good flavor without getting greasy or gritty. The short answer: use a mix of melty and flavorful cheeses, with Gruyère, cheddar, and Parmesan among the most popular choices.

Best cheeses to use

  • Gruyère : Nutty, slightly sweet, melts beautifully, and is a staple in many “au gratin” style potato dishes.
  • Sharp cheddar: Adds a bold, familiar flavor and good color; great as a primary cheese, especially in American-style cheesy scalloped potatoes.
  • Parmesan (or Parmigiano-Reggiano): Salty, savory, and great for mixing in small amounts or sprinkling on top for a browned, crisp finish.

Great cheese combinations

  • Gruyère + Parmesan: A restaurant-style combo that’s rich, nutty, and slightly sharp, often praised in cooking forums.
  • Cheddar + Colby Jack + Parmesan: A popular “three cheese” blend that’s extra creamy and crowd-pleasing for holiday-style scalloped potatoes.
  • Cheddar + mozzarella or provolone: Cheddar gives flavor, and mozzarella/provolone add that stretchy, gooey texture.

If you want something specific

  • For ultra creamy and mild: Use Gouda or smoked Gouda with a bit of cheddar or Gruyère.
  • For deeper, fancier flavor: Go heavier on Gruyère and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
  • For a little twist: Add a bit of Pepper Jack or smoked Gouda for spice or smokiness, but keep most of the cheese mild so it doesn’t overpower the potatoes.

Simple, reliable formula

For a standard 9×13 pan of scalloped potatoes, a solid approach is:

  • About 2 cups melting cheese (Gruyère, Gouda, Colby Jack, mozzarella, or a mix).
  • About 1–1½ cups flavor cheese (sharp cheddar, Parmesan, or similar).

Layer the cheeses between the sliced potatoes and finish with a good sprinkle on top so it bakes to a golden, bubbly crust.

Meta description : Wondering what kind of cheese for scalloped potatoes? From Gruyère and cheddar to Parmesan and Gouda, learn the best single cheeses and blends for ultra-creamy, flavorful scalloped potatoes.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.