Cheesy Boursin Scalloped Potatoes

If creamy, cheesy comfort food is your kind of love language, then Cheesy Boursin Scalloped Potatoes might just be your new favorite side dish. With tender slices of russet potatoes layered between rich, garlicky Boursin cheese and a blanket of melty mozzarella, every forkful is a warm, savory hug. It’s indulgent, elegant, and surprisingly easy to make — the kind of dish that steals the show whether it’s a holiday dinner or a cozy Sunday meal.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born from a craving for something comforting but with a little flair. I wanted classic scalloped potatoes, but with a twist that felt gourmet. Enter Boursin cheese — that creamy, herby, garlic-packed spreadable cheese we all secretly eat straight from the foil. Blending it into the sauce transformed a humble dish into something irresistibly rich and restaurant-worthy. The first time I made it, I knew I’d never go back to plain scalloped potatoes again.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Scalloped potatoes originated from the English dish “collops,” referring to thin slices of meat or food, and have since evolved into a creamy baked dish beloved around the world. While traditional scalloped potatoes are made with a basic white sauce or heavy cream, modern twists often include cheese for extra richness. Boursin, a French cheese introduced in the 1950s, brings garlic and herb flavor in one delicious package, making it a perfect upgrade to this classic.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Boursin Scalloped Potatoes

This dish is the definition of comfort food with class. Here’s why it will become your new go-to side:

Versatile: Pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled veggies, or served solo.

Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients turn into something that feels fancy.

Quick and Easy: Prep in minutes, then let the oven work its magic.

Customizable: Try different cheeses or add extra herbs to suit your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: Creamy, cheesy, and golden on top — it disappears fast.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it ahead and bake when ready.

Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully for next-day comfort.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

If you want creamy layers and bubbly golden edges, follow these handy tips:

1. Use a mandoline slicer: For even, thin slices that cook evenly.
2. Warm the cream: Heating the cream and Boursin together helps it spread more evenly in the layers.
3. Season every layer: Lightly salt and pepper between potato layers to ensure full flavor throughout.
4. Cover then uncover: Bake covered to steam the potatoes, then uncover for that golden brown top.
5. Let it rest: Give it 10–15 minutes out of the oven before serving so it sets slightly and slices cleanly.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

No complicated gear needed — just your everyday kitchen basics:

Mandoline or sharp knife: For slicing potatoes thin and evenly.

Large bowl: To mix potatoes with the cream and cheese.

Medium saucepan: For melting and combining cream and cheese.

Baking dish (9×13): The perfect size for layering and baking.

Aluminum foil: To cover the dish during part of baking.

Oven mitts: This dish gets hot and bubbly!

Ingredients in Cheesy Boursin Scalloped Potatoes

Each ingredient brings something delicious to the table — here’s the full breakdown:

1. Russet potatoes: 2 pounds, peeled and thinly sliced. Starchy and sturdy, they soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
2. Boursin cheese: 1 (5.2 oz) package, Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor. Adds bold, creamy garlic flavor to the base.
3. Heavy cream: 1 1/2 cups. Makes the sauce luxuriously rich and smooth.
4. Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup. Gives that stretchy, golden top layer everyone loves.
5. Garlic cloves: 2, minced. Boosts the Boursin’s flavor and makes it extra savory.
6. Fresh thyme: 1 teaspoon, chopped. Adds an earthy brightness that balances the richness.
7. Salt: 1 teaspoon. Enhances every layer of flavor.
8. Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds subtle heat and depth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to make it your own without sacrificing flavor:

Russet potatoes: Yukon Golds work well too — slightly creamier, less starchy.

Boursin cheese: Herbed cream cheese or goat cheese for a tangier twist.

Heavy cream: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk to lighten it up.

Mozzarella cheese: Try Gruyère or cheddar for different flavor notes.

Fresh thyme: Swap with rosemary, parsley, or a pinch of dried thyme.

Ingredient Spotlight

Boursin Cheese: This spreadable French cheese is infused with garlic and herbs, making it a flavor powerhouse that instantly elevates the creamy base in scalloped potatoes.

Russet Potatoes: Their high starch content ensures the sauce thickens naturally as it bakes, while their texture holds up perfectly in layered dishes.

Instructions for Making Cheesy Boursin Scalloped Potatoes

Layered, creamy, cheesy — here’s how to make this beautiful bake step by step:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Combine Ingredients:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, Boursin cheese, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. Stir until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat.

3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.

4. Assemble the Dish:
Pour half the Boursin cream mixture over the potatoes, spreading evenly. Add half of the shredded mozzarella. Repeat with remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.

5. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

6. Finishing Touches:
Let the dish rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving. Sprinkle with extra thyme if desired.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon out generous portions and enjoy the creamy, cheesy layers with every forkful.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The potatoes turn meltingly tender, soaking up the garlic-herb cream in every layer. The top becomes golden and gooey with bubbly mozzarella, while the bottom stays rich and silky. Each bite balances the smooth, slightly tangy Boursin with the earthy potatoes and a whisper of thyme. It’s both decadent and delicate, all at once.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For perfect texture and even flavor, keep these tips in mind:

• Slice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
• Use full-fat cream for the silkiest sauce.
• Don’t skip the rest time — it allows the sauce to thicken and the dish to slice cleanly.
• Add a layer of foil on the bottom rack to catch any cheesy drips.

What to Avoid

These common pitfalls can take your potatoes from perfect to mushy — here’s what to steer clear of:

• Too-thick slices: They’ll take longer to cook and may not soften properly.
• Skipping the cover: You’ll end up with dried out top layers instead of creamy ones.
• Low-fat substitutes: They may separate and result in a grainy sauce.
• Undermixing the sauce: Make sure the Boursin is fully melted and smooth before layering.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 360

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This is an excellent dish to prep ahead. You can assemble it completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave — just cover with foil and warm gently. You can also freeze the fully baked dish, tightly wrapped, for up to one month. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

How to Serve Cheesy Boursin Scalloped Potatoes

Serve this dish alongside roasted meats, baked chicken, glazed carrots, or a crisp green salad. For a vegetarian meal, pair with sautéed mushrooms or a hearty lentil dish. It also makes a wonderful addition to holiday spreads and potlucks.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t toss those extras — they’re gold the next day:

• Potato cakes: Mash and pan-fry leftovers into crispy patties.
• Loaded bake: Top leftovers with bacon bits and green onions, then reheat.
• Casserole remix: Chop and stir into scrambled eggs or veggie bakes.

Additional Tips

Use a ceramic or glass dish for even baking. If your oven runs hot, reduce the temperature slightly to avoid burning the top. Always taste your cream sauce before assembling to adjust seasoning.

Make It a Showstopper

Garnish with extra thyme leaves and a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan before serving. Present in the baking dish at the center of the table, letting the bubbling cheese and golden top do the talking. A few sprigs of fresh herbs on the side complete the look.

Variations to Try

• Boursin & Spinach: Add sautéed spinach between layers for a green twist.
• Three-Cheese Mix: Combine mozzarella, Gruyère, and Parmesan for more depth.
• Smoky Touch: Add smoked paprika or swap mozzarella for smoked Gouda.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free Boursin-style spread, coconut cream, and vegan mozzarella.
• Bacon Boost: Sprinkle cooked crumbled bacon between layers before baking.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance before baking.

Q2: What’s the best potato to use?
Russets or Yukon Golds are best for texture and flavor.

Q3: Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze after baking and cooling. Reheat from thawed for best texture.

Q4: Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Try goat cheese, cream cheese with herbs, or a blend of soft cheeses.

Q5: Why is my sauce runny?
The dish may not have rested long enough after baking. Let it sit before slicing.

Q6: Can I add onions?
Yes! Thinly sliced onions layer beautifully and add sweetness.

Q7: How thin should the potatoes be?
About 1/8 inch thick. Even slicing helps even cooking.

Q8: Can I make it in a smaller dish?
Yes, halve the recipe for an 8×8 pan and adjust cook time slightly.

Q9: Is this gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free — just double-check your cheese labels.

Q10: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

Cheesy Boursin Scalloped Potatoes are rich, creamy, and full of comforting flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a special dinner or making a cozy night even better, they bring elegance and indulgence to the table with minimal effort. Let me tell you, once you try them, they’ll earn a permanent place in your comfort food rotation.

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