Cheesy Scalloped Potato Bundt

The Cheesy Scalloped Potato Bundt is a masterpiece of texture and flavor, bringing rustic comfort to a new level of elegance. Thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes are layered with rich cream, Parmesan, and fragrant rosemary, then crowned with melty Cheddar. Baked to perfection in a bundt pan, it emerges as a golden dome of irresistible goodness.

This dish is not just about looks—every bite delivers that perfect mix of crispy outer edge and creamy, cheesy middle. Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you want a side that wows, this bundt-style potato bake is hearty enough to steal the show.

Full Recipe:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 1/2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes (about 8 medium), thinly sliced
1 cup heavy cream
2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, grated
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
3 scallions, thinly sliced
2 teaspoons kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12 slices mild Cheddar cheese, halved

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously butter a 12-cup bundt pan with all 4 tablespoons of butter.
Using a mandoline, thinly slice the potatoes so they’re flexible.
Line the entire inside of the bundt pan with one layer of overlapping potato slices, sticking them to the buttered sides.
In a bowl, combine heavy cream, Parmesan, garlic, rosemary, scallions, salt, and pepper.
Toss the remaining sliced potatoes in the cream mixture until fully coated.
Begin layering: Add a quarter of the coated potatoes to the pan in an overlapping circular pattern. Add 8 pieces of Cheddar cheese on top.
Repeat the layering process twice more, ending with a final layer of potatoes that fully covers the cheese.
Bake for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the top is deep golden brown and a paring knife slides easily through the center.
Let rest for 10 minutes before running a spatula around the edges to loosen. Invert onto a serving platter and serve warm.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours
Kcal: Approximately 410 kcal per serving | Servings: 8–10 servings

A Show-Stopping Twist on a Classic Comfort Dish

The humble potato has long been a staple in kitchens around the world, and it’s no surprise why—it’s affordable, versatile, and a blank canvas for flavor. Among the many beloved potato dishes, scalloped potatoes hold a special place in the hearts of comfort food enthusiasts. But what happens when you take this creamy classic and turn it into a golden, visually stunning centerpiece? Enter the Cheesy Scalloped Potato Bundt—a dish that brings together elegant presentation and nostalgic flavors in one savory creation.

This recipe puts a clever spin on traditional scalloped potatoes by assembling them in a bundt pan, creating a dome-shaped side dish that slices beautifully and looks impressively gourmet on any table. With layers of thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes coated in a savory cream mixture and interspersed with melty Cheddar cheese, every bite is rich, aromatic, and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just want to elevate your weeknight meal, this potato bundt is bound to be a standout.

The Inspiration Behind the Bundt Format

Why a bundt pan, you might ask? While bundt pans are traditionally reserved for cakes and sweet breads, they’ve recently gained popularity in savory applications thanks to their ability to mold ingredients into beautiful, uniform rings. The deep ridges and central column help ensure even cooking while providing more surface area for browning and crisping—key elements in any scalloped potato recipe.

This bundt version not only gives the dish a show-stopping shape but also adds irresistible texture. The outer edges crisp up into golden perfection, while the inside remains tender, creamy, and infused with layers of flavor. The bundt format also helps pack the ingredients tightly, which contributes to a firm structure that holds up when sliced.

Elevating Flavor with Simple Additions

Although the ingredients are relatively straightforward—potatoes, cream, cheese, herbs—the magic lies in the thoughtful combinations and layering. A fragrant mix of garlic, fresh rosemary, and scallions adds aromatic depth, while the use of both Parmesan and mild Cheddar creates a balance of sharpness and creaminess. The result is a flavor profile that feels rich but not overwhelming, with just the right amount of herbaceousness and tang.

Using Yukon gold potatoes is another smart choice. Their naturally buttery texture and low starch content allow them to hold their shape well during baking, all while soaking up the seasoned cream mixture beautifully.

Perfect for Special Occasions and Everyday Feasts

This dish is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for everything from Thanksgiving and Christmas to potlucks and Sunday dinners. It’s vegetarian-friendly, hearty enough to serve as a main course with a side salad, or as a luxurious side dish to roasted meats or vegetables. Because of its bundt pan construction, it also travels well and can be easily unmolded for an impressive presentation at gatherings.

It’s especially popular during the holidays because it captures everything we love about comfort food: warmth, indulgence, and nostalgia. And while it looks elegant, it’s easy enough to prepare ahead of time—just assemble and bake when ready.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Despite its simplicity, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for when making this bundt:

1. Potatoes too thick: If the slices are too thick, they won’t bend and layer properly in the pan. Using a mandoline slicer ensures uniformly thin slices, which are crucial for both the presentation and even cooking.

2. Not buttering the pan enough: This step might feel excessive, but don’t skimp on the butter. It’s essential for creating the crisp, golden crust and for helping the potato dome release cleanly from the pan.

3. Underseasoning: Potatoes are a blank slate, so don’t be afraid to season generously. The cream mixture should be well salted and seasoned with herbs to ensure every bite is flavorful.

4. Not packing the layers: To get that firm bundt structure, it’s important to press each layer down gently before adding the next. This helps the dish hold its shape when inverted.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

The Cheesy Scalloped Potato Bundt is rich and filling, so it pairs best with lighter mains and crisp vegetables. For a classic pairing, serve it alongside roast chicken, turkey, or glazed ham. If you’re going for a vegetarian spread, pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette to cut through the richness or with roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or sautéed greens.

For a wine pairing, try a dry white like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc—both cut through the creaminess with bright acidity. If you prefer red, opt for a light Pinot Noir or Grenache to complement the cheesy, herbal notes without overwhelming the palate.

Customization Ideas

This recipe is flexible and easy to adapt depending on dietary preferences or available ingredients. Here are a few tasty variations:

Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a smoky chipotle cream to give it a spicy twist.
Add protein: Crumbled bacon, pancetta, or cooked sausage can be layered in between the potatoes for a meatier version.
Switch the cheese: Try Gruyère, Fontina, or sharp white Cheddar for different flavor profiles.
Go vegetarian gourmet: Add caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or wilted spinach for extra depth.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice into individual portions and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil to prevent drying out. For a crispier top, uncover for the last 5–10 minutes of reheating.

It can also be frozen, though the texture of the potatoes may soften slightly upon thawing. For best results, reheat from frozen at a low oven temperature until warmed through.

Why This Dish Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Collection

The Cheesy Scalloped Potato Bundt is more than just a pretty dish—it’s a celebration of comfort, creativity, and culinary craft. It transforms everyday ingredients into something extraordinary, proving that with a little inspiration and technique, even the simplest foods can shine.

This dish not only satisfies the craving for something hearty and familiar, but it also brings a sense of occasion to the table. Its golden crust, rich layers, and stunning presentation make it perfect for entertaining, while the ease of preparation ensures you don’t need to be a seasoned chef to pull it off.

Conclusion

In a world of culinary trends and complex recipes, the Cheesy Scalloped Potato Bundt reminds us that sometimes the most satisfying dishes are the ones rooted in simplicity, made special with a clever twist. It’s a dish that delivers both visual wow-factor and deep, satisfying flavor—making it an instant favorite for gatherings, holidays, and cozy family meals.

If you’re looking to impress your guests, elevate your sides, or simply treat yourself to something warm and delicious, this bundt-style scalloped potato dish is an absolute must-try. Classic comfort with a golden crown—what’s not to love?