Cheesy Scalloped Potato Roll Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a dish that wraps comfort, flavor, and a delightful cheesy twist all in one, look no further than this sensational Cheesy Scalloped Potato Roll. Picture this: tender, thinly sliced potatoes baked to perfection with a golden, crispy edge, layered lovingly with a rich and savory ground beef filling, all melted together with generous amounts of mozzarella cheese. It’s the kind of hearty meal that instantly feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings when you want to impress without fuss. This Cheesy Scalloped Potato Roll is a true standout recipe worth making again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Cheesy Scalloped Potato Roll comes down to a handful of simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible balance of textures and flavors—from the creamy potato slices and melty cheese to the savory, well-seasoned beef filling.

• Potatoes: Thinly sliced to about 1/8 inch to create a flexible and tender base that crisps up beautifully when baked.
• Olive oil: Adds necessary moisture and helps achieve that golden-brown finish on the potatoes.
• Salt: Enhances every element, making sure each bite bursts with flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly and offers that luscious, stretchy cheese pull that defines the roll.
• Ground beef: Provides hearty richness, perfectly complementing the mild potatoes.
• Onion and bell peppers: Add sweetness and a touch of crunch to the beef filling.
• Tomato paste: Brings depth and a subtle tang that rounds out the savory meat mixture.
• Spices (cumin, paprika): Introduce gentle warmth and complexity without overwhelming the dish.
• Fresh parsley: A bright garnish that freshens each slice before serving.

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potato Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Potato Base

Start by peeling your potatoes and slicing them very thinly—about 1/8 inch thick is just right. This helps the slices become tender and flexible after baking, essential for rolling. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and sprinkle half of your shredded mozzarella evenly across the surface. This layer of cheese under the potatoes creates a wonderfully crispy, cheesy crust once baked.

Step 2: Arrange and Par-Bake the Potatoes

Lay the potato slices in overlapping rows, like fish scales, to fully cover the parchment and cheese layer beneath. Brush the potato surface lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, just long enough for the potatoes to become fork-tender yet still flexible enough to roll later on. Let them cool slightly so you can handle them comfortably.

Step 3: Cook the Beef Filling

While the potatoes are baking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the ground beef thoroughly, breaking it up as it cooks, then add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and the peppers soften. Stir in tomato paste along with salt, cumin, and paprika, cooking everything together for another minute or two to deepen the flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Roll

Once your par-baked potatoes are cool enough to touch, sprinkle half of the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Spread the warm beef filling over that, then sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella on top of the meat layer. This layering ensures every bite has that perfect cheesy, meaty goodness balanced with tender potatoes.

Step 5: Roll and Final Bake

Carefully use the parchment paper to roll the potato base into a tight log, starting from the short end. Place the roll seam-side down on the baking sheet, then sprinkle a final layer of cheese evenly across the top. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes or until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden crown. Let the Cheesy Scalloped Potato Roll cool for a few minutes before slicing—it holds together beautifully and makes for an impressive presentation.

How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potato Roll

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of fresh, herbal brightness against the richness of the cheese and beef. You can also add a light drizzle of sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance the meal with freshness and crunch. A side of lightly dressed arugula or a simple cucumber salad can also refresh your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleaser, slice the roll into thick, pinwheel-like pieces and serve them on a large platter garnished with extra parsley and a scattering of cherry tomatoes. You could also turn this recipe into individual portions by rolling up smaller logs in ramekins or muffin tins for a cute, single-serving presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though chances are slim!), place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for excellent next-day meals.

Freezing

This Cheesy Scalloped Potato Roll freezes well. Wrap the fully baked roll tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your leftovers back to life, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also microwave portions for about 1 to 2 minutes if you’re in a hurry, though the oven method keeps the crust crispier.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella provides that classic melty stretch and mild flavor, you can experiment with cheddar for a sharper bite or provolone for a more complex taste. Just choose a cheese that melts well to keep the roll cohesive and gooey.

Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of the Cheesy Scalloped Potato Roll?

Yes! Simply swap out the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of your favorite vegetables like zucchini and eggplant. Season them well with similar spices to keep the deep, rich flavor of the original filling.

How thin do the potatoes need to be sliced?

Thinly sliced potatoes, about 1/8 inch thick, are key to a tender yet flexible crust that holds together when rolled. Using a mandoline slicer can make this step much easier and more uniform.

Can I prepare the roll entirely ahead of time?

You can prepare everything up to the assembly stage and refrigerate the layered potatoes and beef filling before rolling and baking. Just allow the potato slices to come to room temperature before rolling to prevent cracking.

What should I serve with this dish for a balanced meal?

Pair this rich and cheesy potato roll with light sides like mixed greens, fresh vegetable salads, or a simple broth-based soup. This contrast helps balance the richness for a more enjoyable dining experience.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cheesy Scalloped Potato Roll enough for anyone who loves comfort food that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. It’s a dish that brings warmth, joy, and a little bit of wow factor to your table. Once you try it, it’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes for any occasion where you want to treat yourself and those you love.