Scalloped potatoes are a creamy, cheesy dish that is perfect for family meals or special occasions. Made by layering thinly sliced potatoes with a rich sauce, this recipe is a comfort food favorite that’s simple to prepare. The creamy texture and savory flavor make it a crowd-pleaser at dinner tables.

This classic scalloped potatoes recipe combines tender potatoes with a velvety cheese sauce, baked until golden and bubbling. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with almost any main course, from roast chicken to steak. Enjoy this easy-to-make, comforting side dish today!

Why You’ll Love This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: This scalloped potatoes recipe creates a smooth, creamy texture that melts in your mouth. The combination of cheese and cream gives it a rich, satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: Making scalloped potatoes is quick and straightforward! Just layer the potatoes, pour the sauce, and bake. It’s a foolproof recipe that guarantees a delicious side dish with minimal effort.
• Perfection: Whether it’s a family dinner, holiday gathering, or a casual meal, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. It pairs well with any main dish, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Comfort Food: This recipe evokes a warm, cozy feeling. It’s the ultimate comfort food, with its cheesy goodness and buttery flavor, making it the ideal choice for a hearty meal.

Ingredient Notes for a Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

• Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes, such as Russets. They hold up well during baking and create a creamy texture.
• Heavy Cream: This adds richness and smoothness to the sauce, making it creamy and indulgent.
• Milk: Balance the heaviness of the cream with milk to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
• Cheddar Cheese: Grate your cheese for a melty, gooey texture that complements the dish’s flavor.
• Butter: Adding butter enhances the richness and flavor of the scalloped potatoes. It also helps the sauce come together smoothly.
• All-purpose Flour: This thickens the sauce, giving it the right consistency to coat the potatoes.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of savory flavor to the dish. It pairs perfectly with the creamy elements.
• Salt and Pepper: Season the dish to taste with salt and pepper for the perfect balance of flavors.

Pre-preparation of Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

To get started, here’s what you need to do before you begin layering your scalloped potatoes.

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it heat up.
• Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin, uniform rounds, approximately 1/8 inch thick. A mandolin slicer is an excellent tool for achieving evenly sliced pieces.
• Grate the Cheese: Use a coarse grater to shred the cheese, or opt for pre-grated cheese if you’re in a hurry.
• Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to form a roux. Gradually add the milk and cook until the sauce thickens.

How to Make Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients

For a delicious batch of scalloped potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of milk
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
• 3 tablespoons of butter
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon of paprika (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the perfect scalloped potatoes:

1. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Whisk in the flour and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly. Slowly pour in the milk and cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce until it thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Layer the Potatoes: In a greased ovenproof baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes. Add a spoonful of the creamy sauce on top of the potatoes and spread evenly. Repeat this process, layering the potatoes and sauce until all the ingredients are used up. Be sure to end with a layer of sauce on top.
3. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese generously over the final layer of sauce.
4. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
5. Let it Rest: Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce time to set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Variation

You can easily customize this scalloped potatoes recipe! Here are a few variations to try:

• Bacon: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the layers for a smoky flavor.
• Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary over the top for an added burst of flavor.
• Vegan Version: Replace the heavy cream and milk with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese to make a vegan-friendly version.

How to Serve Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Scalloped potatoes make a great side dish for many meals. Serve them alongside:

• Roast chicken or grilled steak for a hearty dinner.
• Green vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or peas, can help balance the richness of the dish.
• Salads with a tangy dressing will add a nice contrast to the creamy potatoes.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, here’s how you can store them:

• Refrigerate: Place scalloped potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze scalloped potatoes for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
• Reheat: To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs About Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use different types of cheese in scalloped potatoes?

Absolutely! You can use cheddar, Gruyere, or any cheese of your choice to customize the flavor. Just ensure it melts well to achieve a creamy texture.

How do I prevent my scalloped potatoes from being watery?

To avoid watery scalloped potatoes, use starchy potatoes, such as russets. Also, avoid adding too much liquid and let the dish bake for a sufficient amount of time to thicken.

Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze scalloped potatoes after they are baked. Just let them cool completely, wrap them tightly, and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.