Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than these Best Scalloped Potatoes! Think layers of tender, perfectly cooked potatoes, smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection. The smell wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for their first bite. These scalloped potatoes are the kind of dish that elevates any meal—whether it’s a holiday feast, a family dinner, or just a cozy night in. You’ll want to make these again and again, and trust me, they’ll be the star of every table!

Why You’ll Love Best Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes are the definition of comfort food. But this recipe takes it to the next level. Here’s why you’ll love them:

Creamy and Cheesy:

The sauce is everything. A rich, velvety combination of cream, butter, and cheese coats every layer of potato, giving you that indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Each bite is perfectly balanced between creamy, cheesy goodness and tender potato slices.

Easy to Make:

Even though this dish looks and tastes gourmet, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. There’s no need for any fancy techniques—just a bit of layering and patience while it bakes. You can also make it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

Versatile:

This dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal, a special Sunday dinner, or just as a comforting side dish, it pairs well with almost anything. It’s great alongside roast meats, salads, or steamed vegetables.

Crowd-Pleasing:

Let’s face it—everyone loves a cheesy, creamy side dish. These scalloped potatoes are a guaranteed hit at the table, and they’re even better when you make a big batch so there are plenty of leftovers!

Ingredients in Best Scalloped Potatoes

This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, but the result is pure magic. Let’s break it down:

Potatoes:

The star of the show! Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for this dish because they’re creamy and hold their shape well when baked. You can also use Russets if you prefer a starchier potato.

Heavy Cream:

This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and rich. Heavy cream creates the perfect base for the cheesy sauce.

Butter:

For richness and flavor, butter is key. It gives the sauce a deep, savory taste that balances out the cream.

Cheese:

Shredded sharp cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness that cuts through the richness of the cream, creating the ultimate cheesy goodness. You can also add a bit of Gruyère or Parmesan for extra depth of flavor.

Garlic:

Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with just the right amount of aromatic flavor. It’s subtle but makes a big difference!

Milk:

For the perfect sauce consistency, milk helps balance the richness of the cream and butter, creating a smooth, pourable texture.

Onion:

Sautéed onions add a savory sweetness to the sauce that complements the potatoes perfectly.

Salt and Pepper:

To taste. These simple seasonings elevate the flavors and bring everything together.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Making these Best Scalloped Potatoes is as easy as layering and baking. Let’s get started!

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Prepare the Potatoes:

Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick). A mandolin slicer works perfectly here if you have one, but a sharp knife will do the trick too. Be sure to rinse the slices in cold water to remove excess starch.

Sauté the Onions:

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent (about 5 minutes). Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

Add the remaining butter (2 tablespoons) to the onions and garlic, and melt it in the pan. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, then stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to bubble gently for a couple of minutes.

Layer the Potatoes:

Start by placing a layer of potato slices at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour some of the creamy sauce over the potatoes, then sprinkle with a little bit of shredded cheese. Repeat the layering process until you run out of potatoes and sauce, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

Bake to Perfection:

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Let It Rest:

Once out of the oven, let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help the sauce thicken and make it easier to slice and serve.

How to Serve Best Scalloped Potatoes

These scalloped potatoes are an ideal side dish for almost any main course, but here are a few suggestions:

Roast Meats:

Serve these scalloped potatoes alongside roast chicken, beef, or pork for a hearty and comforting meal.

Grilled Vegetables:

Pair with grilled vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts to balance out the richness of the dish with some freshness.

Salad:

A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette will cut through the creamy potatoes and add some brightness to the meal.

Bread:

Serve with crusty bread to soak up any extra creamy sauce. Garlic bread or a simple baguette would be perfect!

Additional Tips

Here are some tips for making these Best Scalloped Potatoes even more amazing:

Don’t Skip the Resting Time:

Letting the potatoes rest after baking allows the sauce to thicken and helps the potatoes absorb all that creamy goodness. It’s tempting to dive right in, but trust me, patience is key!

Make It Ahead of Time:

You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake. This makes for a great make-ahead dish, especially for busy holidays or dinner parties.

Add a Crunchy Topping:

If you love a little crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the cheese before baking. This will give your scalloped potatoes a crispy, golden finish.

Use Different Cheese:

If you want to get a little creative with the cheese, try swapping some of the cheddar for Gruyère, Swiss, or Parmesan. Each one will bring a unique twist to the flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1/8 of the Recipe (Based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 375
• Total Fat: 25g (38% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 15g (75% DV)
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 70mg (23% DV)
• Sodium: 550mg (23% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g (10% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (12% DV)
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 7g
• Vitamin A: 20% DV
• Vitamin C: 20% DV
• Calcium: 20% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A1: Yes! You can prepare the scalloped potatoes the day before, cover them with foil, and refrigerate. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Q2: Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?

A2: Absolutely! After baking, allow the dish to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-60 minutes.

Q3: Can I use a different kind of cheese?

A3: Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Q4: How do I know when the potatoes are done?

A4: The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork. The top will also be golden and bubbly when the dish is finished baking.

Q5: Can I add herbs or seasonings to the sauce?

A5: Absolutely! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley would be wonderful additions. You can also add a little garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.

Q6: Can I make this recipe without milk?

A6: Yes! You can substitute the milk with more heavy cream, or use a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk.

Q7: What if I don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes?

A7: You can use Russet potatoes instead, though they may be a bit starchier. Just make sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly.

Q8: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A8: Yes, just ensure you’re using gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce if needed. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q9: How should I store leftovers?

A9: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Q10: Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

A10: Yes, you can! Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly.

Conclusion

These Best Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, bringing creamy, cheesy goodness to your table with every bite. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a holiday feast, they’re sure to be the star of the show. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, this recipe is a keeper for years to come. Enjoy the indulgence, and don’t be surprised if they become your new favorite side dish!

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