Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Scalloped Potatoes are a classic comfort food made with thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, buttery sauce until golden and tender. This dish is rich, hearty, and perfect as a side for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or cozy weeknight meals. Its simplicity and indulgent flavor make it a beloved staple.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

russet potatoesheavy creamwhole milksaltblack peppergarlic clovesunsalted butteronionall-purpose flourgrated cheddar cheese (optional for extra richness)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.

Peel and thinly slice the potatoes evenly, about 1/8-inch thick.

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.

Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared dish.

Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes and spread evenly.

Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Remove foil and continue baking for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 65-70 minutesResting time: 10 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

Add shredded cheese between layers for a cheesy scalloped potato version.

Incorporate cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor and heartiness.

Use a mix of sweet potatoes and russet for color and sweetness.

Add thyme, rosemary, or nutmeg for a herby or spiced twist.

Top with breadcrumbs during the last 15 minutes of baking for a crunchy finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.Freeze portions for up to 2 months and reheat directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.

FAQs

What type of potatoes are best?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their starch content and texture.

Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake before serving.

Is cheese necessary?

Traditional scalloped potatoes do not require cheese, but you can add it for extra richness.

Why are my potatoes not soft?

Make sure the slices are thin and evenly cut. Bake long enough and check doneness with a fork.

Can I use only milk?

Using only milk will yield a lighter sauce, but it may not be as creamy. A mix with cream is recommended.

How do I prevent curdling?

Gently heat the milk and cream before adding, and avoid high oven temperatures.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, substitute flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Is this the same as au gratin?

No, au gratin usually includes cheese between the layers and on top.

How thin should the potato slices be?

Aim for about 1/8 inch thick for even cooking and a tender texture.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, thinly sliced mushrooms, spinach, or leeks can be layered in for variation.

Conclusion

Scalloped Potatoes offer a creamy, savory, and elegant addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a weeknight comfort dish, their tender layers and rich flavor never disappoint. With simple ingredients and customizable variations, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.