Scalloped Potatoes

Introduction

Scalloped Potatoes are a comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday feasts. The tender potatoes are baked in a rich, cheesy sauce, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. With layers of thinly sliced potatoes and a velvety sauce, this is a classic side dish that’s sure to impress.

I remember making this for a holiday dinner, and it quickly became the star of the table. The combination of golden, bubbling cheese and perfectly tender potatoes made it irresistible. What’s wonderful about scalloped potatoes is their versatility—you can add ingredients like garlic, herbs, or even ham to elevate the flavors and make the dish your own.

The best part is how easy they are to prepare. With a few basic ingredients and a bit of time in the oven, you’ll have a rich, hearty dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re serving them with a holiday roast, grilled meats, or enjoying them as a comforting main dish, scalloped potatoes are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

• Holiday meals
• Family gatherings
• Potluck dinners
• Special occasions
• Comfort food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Scalloped Potatoes

Here’s why Scalloped Potatoes will become your go-to side dish:

• Creamy and Cheesy: The rich, creamy sauce and melted cheese create a luscious texture that’s perfect with every bite.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday ingredients, this recipe elevates basic potatoes into something extraordinary.
• Versatile: Scalloped Potatoes pair well with virtually any main dish, from roast chicken to steak or ham.
• Easy to Make: With minimal prep time, this dish is simple to assemble and delivers big flavor.
• Perfect for Leftovers: The leftovers are just as delicious, making it a great dish to prepare ahead of time.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Scalloped Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes because they hold their shape well when sliced thinly and provide a fluffy, creamy texture once baked.
• Heavy Cream and Milk: The combination of cream and milk creates a rich, smooth sauce that perfectly coats the potatoes.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a bold, tangy flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
• Butter and Flour: These two ingredients form the base of the creamy sauce, helping to thicken it and add richness.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: These seasonings add depth and savory flavor to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make Scalloped Potatoes:

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into about ⅛-inch thick rounds. For even slices, you can use a mandolin slicer.
3. Layer the Potatoes: Arrange the potato slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, overlapping the slices slightly in layers.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

4. Cook the Butter and Flour: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and cook, whisking constantly for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture becomes golden and bubbly.
5. Add the Cream and Milk: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk while continuing to whisk to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Season the Sauce: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Add the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.

Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes:

8. Pour the Sauce Over the Potatoes: Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes, making sure the sauce is distributed well.
9. Add Parmesan (Optional): Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top for extra flavor and a golden, crispy topping.
10. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. This helps the potatoes cook through and soften.
11. Uncover and Brown: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

How to Serve Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped Potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be served with many different meals:

• With Roasts: Serve with a roast chicken, pork, or beef roast for a comforting family meal.
• For Holiday Dinners: These potatoes make a great addition to a holiday table, pairing perfectly with ham or turkey.
• With Grilled Meats: Scalloped Potatoes are fantastic alongside grilled steaks, chops, or even burgers.
• As a Main Dish: For a vegetarian meal, enjoy scalloped potatoes on their own, served with a fresh salad.

Additional Tips for Scalloped Potatoes

Here are some tips to ensure this recipe turn out perfectly:

• Slice the Potatoes Thinly: For best results, slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure they cook through properly. A mandolin slicer is ideal for this.
• Use a Starchy Potato: Russet potatoes are the best choice because they release starch, which helps thicken the sauce.
• Let the Dish Rest: Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken and makes the dish easier to serve.
• Check for Doneness: To check if the potatoes are fully cooked, insert a fork into the center of the dish. If it goes through easily, the potatoes are done.
• Add Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make It Ahead: Scalloped Potatoes can be made ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Recipe Variations for Scalloped Potatoes

Here are 10 variations you can try for this recipe:

• Garlic and Herb Scalloped Potatoes: Add minced garlic, fresh rosemary, or thyme to the sauce for an aromatic, herby twist.
• Bacon Scalloped Potatoes: Sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon over the potatoes before baking for added smokiness and flavor.
• Cheddar and Gruyère Scalloped Potatoes: Use a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese for a deeper, more complex flavor.
• Mushroom Scalloped Potatoes: Add sautéed mushrooms to the layers for a savory, earthy flavor that complements the creamy potatoes.
• Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Top with cooked, crumbled sausage, bacon, green onions, and more cheese for a loaded version.
• Spicy Scalloped Potatoes: Stir in a bit of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to add some heat to the sauce.
• Gluten-Free Scalloped Potatoes: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make a gluten-free version.
• Vegan Scalloped Potatoes: Use non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk), dairy-free butter, and vegan cheese for a plant-based option.
• Sweet Potato Scalloped Potatoes: Swap out the regular potatoes for thinly sliced sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory twist.
• Spinach and Artichoke Scalloped Potatoes: Add spinach and artichoke hearts to the layers for a rich, creamy variation with a pop of flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Scalloped Potatoes

• Freezing: Scalloped Potatoes can be frozen after baking. Let them cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes until heated through.
• Storage: Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Special Equipment for Scalloped Potatoes

Here are some tools that will make preparing this recipe easier:

• Mandolin Slicer: A mandolin slicer ensures your potato slices are even and thin for uniform cooking.
• Saucepan: A medium saucepan for making the creamy cheese sauce.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is the perfect size for this recipe.
• Aluminum Foil: Use foil to cover the dish while baking to keep the potatoes moist.
• Grater: A box grater or food processor works well for grating the cheese.
• Whisk: A whisk helps to combine the flour, butter, and liquids for a smooth sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions for Scalloped Potatoes

1. Can I use a different type of potato?
   Russet potatoes are the best choice for scalloped potatoes, but Yukon Gold potatoes can also work well for a creamier texture.
2. Can I make Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish, refrigerate, and bake the following day.
3. Can I use a different cheese?
   Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
5. Can I make this dish without dairy?
   Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cream, milk, butter, and cheese to make a dairy-free version.

Print

Conclusion

Scalloped Potatoes are a rich, creamy, and comforting side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. With tender layers of potato coated in a velvety cheese sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, these scalloped potatoes are sure to impress.

This recipe is as easy to prepare as it is delicious, making it a versatile choice for everything from weeknight meals to festive gatherings. With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, it’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

I’d love to see how this recipe turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!