Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food — rich, creamy, and packed with layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a velvety sauce. This classic side dish pairs perfectly with roasted meats, holiday dinners, or cozy weeknight meals. The combination of soft potatoes and a cheesy, garlicky sauce creates an irresistible flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

What makes scalloped potatoes so delightful is their luxurious texture. Each forkful delivers creamy, buttery goodness with just the right balance of seasoning and cheesy richness. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or craving a warm, satisfying side dish, scalloped potatoes never disappoint.

Ingredients for Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes into uniform 1/8-inch slices. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve even cuts for consistent cooking.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme if desired. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potatoes, ensuring they’re well-coated. Sprinkle half of the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the layer. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheeses.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this rich and comforting dish alongside your favorite main course.

Storage Instructions

To store leftover scalloped potatoes, let them cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When reheating, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 450mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best type of potato for scalloped potatoes?

Russet potatoes work best because they have a high starch content, making the sauce creamy and rich. Yukon Gold potatoes are also a great choice for their buttery texture.

How can I prevent my sauce from curdling?

To avoid curdling, cook the sauce over gentle heat and avoid boiling the cream mixture. Adding a bit of flour to the sauce can also help stabilize it.

Can I add extra cheese?

Absolutely! Adding more cheddar, Gruyère, or even mozzarella can elevate the dish’s richness and flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe without dairy?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream and milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, and use a vegan butter alternative. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

Why are my scalloped potatoes watery?

This often happens if the potatoes weren’t dried well after washing or if there’s excess moisture in the baking dish. Ensuring the creamy sauce is thick enough before pouring it over the potatoes helps too.

Can I add meat to make it a complete meal?

Certainly! Adding cooked ham, bacon, or even shredded chicken between layers can turn this side dish into a hearty main course.

How can I get a crispier top layer?

For a golden, crispy top, broil the scalloped potatoes for the final 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Scalloped potatoes

Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting, these scalloped potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a rich garlic-infused cream sauce and topped with melted cheese, creating a decadent dish that’s perfect for holidays, family dinners, or potlucks. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying side to accompany roasted meats or simply craving a warm, cheesy delight, this easy scalloped potatoes recipe is sure to impress.

Instructions

Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the potatoes: Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes into 1/8-inch thick pieces.
Make the sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in cream, milk, salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat.
Layer the dish: Arrange half of the potato slices in the greased baking dish. Pour half of the creamy sauce over them and sprinkle half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Rest and serve: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Category: Side Dish