Scalloped potatoes are a classic, rich, and creamy side dish that never goes out of style. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a decadent, cheesy cream sauce and baked until golden brown and bubbly. Whether served alongside a holiday roast or as part of a simple weeknight meal, this dish is always a hit.
Classic Scalloped Potatoes
I absolutely love making scalloped potatoes for special occasions because they’re both elegant and comforting. The layers of tender potatoes soaked in a rich cream sauce, with just the right amount of melted cheese, make this dish irresistible. You can keep it simple with basic ingredients, or jazz it up with a hint of garlic or fresh herbs. No matter how you make it, scalloped potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe pairs beautifully with hearty mains like Oven Roasted Sausage and Potatoes Recipe or Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe, making it an excellent addition to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Creamy and Comforting: The rich, cheesy cream sauce combined with tender potatoes makes this dish pure comfort food.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Scalloped potatoes are a great side dish for holiday gatherings or dinner parties, and they look impressive on the table.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with just a handful of pantry staples, this dish is easy to make but tastes like a gourmet treat.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite cheeses, garlic, or fresh herbs to personalize this recipe.
Main Ingredients for Classic Scalloped Potatoes
- Potatoes – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes because they hold their shape well and become tender without falling apart.
- Heavy Cream – The cream is the base of the sauce, providing richness and a silky texture.
- Cheese – A combination of cheddar and Parmesan adds sharpness and depth of flavor.
- Butter – Adds richness to the sauce and helps create that golden, bubbly top.
- Garlic – Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Flour – A little flour helps thicken the cream sauce so it clings to the potatoes.
- Onion – Thinly sliced onions add sweetness and depth to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Here’s how to make these creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes step by step:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Tip: Greasing the baking dish helps prevent the potatoes from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel 4-5 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes and slice them into 1/8-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. Set the sliced potatoes aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning.
- Pro Tip: A mandoline makes slicing the potatoes quickly and ensures they are all evenly thin, which helps them cook at the same rate.
- Make the Cream Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 finely minced clove of garlic and 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for another minute, then slowly whisk in 2 cups of heavy cream until smooth and thickened.
- Variation: For extra flavor, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Layer the Potatoes: Drain and pat the sliced potatoes dry. Arrange half of the potatoes in the greased baking dish in an even layer. Season with salt and pepper, then pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.
- Tip: Be sure to season each layer of potatoes to ensure the dish is well-flavored throughout.
- Bake the Potatoes: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Pro Tip: If you like a crispier top, you can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Let Rest and Serve: Once the potatoes are done, let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
- Serving Idea: These scalloped potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats or a light salad like Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese Recipe for a balanced meal.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Add Bacon: For extra flavor, sprinkle crispy bacon bits between the layers of potatoes.
- Make it Cheesy: You can experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Gouda for a unique twist.
- How to Store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- How to Freeze: Scalloped potatoes can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Health Benefits of Classic Scalloped Potatoes
While scalloped potatoes are indulgent, potatoes themselves are packed with nutrients. They’re a great source of vitamins C and B6, which support immune function and energy production. The cheese and cream provide calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth. For a lighter version, you can substitute some of the cream with milk or use a combination of milk and broth to reduce the richness.
- High in Potassium: Potatoes are rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and maintain proper heart function.
- Source of Calcium: The cheese and cream in this dish provide calcium, which is essential for bone health.
- Customizable for Healthier Options: You can reduce the amount of cheese and cream or use a lighter milk for a less rich dish.
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