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When you’re craving classic comfort food but don’t want to wait an hour for the oven, these Microwave Scalloped Potatoes are a total lifesaver. They’re creamy, cheesy, and layered with thinly sliced potatoes—yet they cook entirely in the microwave in about 15 minutes.
This easy scalloped potatoes recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday sides, or when oven space is limited. Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and big cozy flavor. Set aside the mashed potatoes recipe, and make some scalloped potatoes instead!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- There is no oven required- only the microwave.
- You can get classic scalloped potato flavor in less time.
- You’ll only need simple pantry ingredients.
- It’s the perfect side dish for chicken dinners.
Ingredients Needed
- Potatoes: The hearty base of the dish
- Flour and salt: Helps thicken the creamy sauce
- Cheddar cheese: Adds richness and cheesy flavor
- Milk (heated): Creates a smooth, creamy texture
- Butter: Adds richness and moisture
- Paprika: Light color and subtle warmth
- Green onions (optional): Fresh garnish and mild onion flavor
How to Make Microwave Scalloped Potatoes
- Spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray.
- Place a single layer of potatoes (slightly overlapping) in the dish. Sprinkle with some of the flour/salt mixture, then sprinkle with cheese.
- Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, ending with cheese. Pour hot milk evenly over the layers.
- Dot the top with butter and sprinkle with paprika.
- Microwave uncovered for about 15 minutes, turning the dish once or twice, until potatoes are tender and cheese is melted.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve.
Tips & Variations
- Use Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for best results.
- Add sliced ham or cooked bacon between layers for a heartier dish.
- Try swapping cheddar for Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or Gruyere.
- For extra creaminess, substitute half-and-half for the milk.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave until warmed through.
What to Serve With Scalloped Potatoes
These pair beautifully with roast chicken, baked ham, pork chops, or grilled beef kabobs—making them a versatile side for almost any meal. Serve alongside classic meatloaf for a comfort food dinner. If you’re building a holiday table, add something like Tater Tot Casserole.
If oven space is tight or you’re short on time, this recipe is a total win. It’s proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Use the microwave!
Fun Facts About Microwaves:
- Popcorn was the first food that was tested in a microwave.
- The price tag on first microwave ever invented (750 pounds and 6 feet tall) was $5,000.
- The first microwave was much more powerful than the models we use today. It could cook a whole potato in 30 seconds.
- Glass (instead of plastic) is a much safer and healthier vessel for cooking foods in the microwave.
- Microwave ovens cook food from the outside in.
Microwave Scalloped Potatoes
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons all purpose flour mixed with ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk (heated for 2 minutes in microwave)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- paprika
- chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Spray an 8×8-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray.
- Place a single layer of potatoes (overlapping a bit) in the prepared dish. Sprinkle some of the flour mixture on top. Sprinkle cheese on top of the flour mixture. Repeat layers until you've used up all of the ingredients (ending with cheese).
- Pour the hot milk over everything. Dot the top of the scalloped potatoes with butter. Sprinkle with paprika.
- Heat, uncovered, in the microwave for about 15 minutes- or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted. Turn the casserole once or twice while cooking.
- Serve with some chopped green onions sprinkled on top.
Nutrition
This recipe comes from RecipeBoy.com
