Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that can steal the show at any meal, these Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are just what you need! This recipe is one I cherish, not only for its deliciousness but also for how it brings everyone together around the table. With layers of tender potatoes enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce, every bite feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re preparing for a festive holiday gathering or simply wanting to elevate a busy weeknight dinner, these scalloped potatoes are sure to please.

What makes this dish even more special is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up quickly and let the oven do the work while you focus on the rest of your meal. Trust me; your family and friends will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: The creamy sauce combined with the crispy edges creates an unforgettable flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love cheesy potatoes, making this a hit at any gathering.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and bake just before serving to save time during busy meals.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create these delightful Creamy Scalloped Potatoes!

For the Potatoes

• 5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream (you can substitute whole milk or half and half)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

The beauty of Creamy Scalloped Potatoes lies in their flexibility! Here are some fun variations to make this dish your own:

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in thinly sliced onions or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheese options like Gruyère or cheddar for a unique taste.
• Herb Infusion: Try adding rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a different herbal note.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your scalloped potatoes.

How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by heating your oven to 400°F and lightly greasing a medium-sized ceramic baking dish. This step ensures that your delicious scalloped potatoes don’t stick when they’re perfectly baked.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandolin or sharp knife, slice the Yukon gold potatoes as thinly as possible—aim for about 1/16th of an inch. Thin slices cook evenly and soak up that creamy sauce beautifully.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter with minced garlic until it becomes aromatic. This step infuses your sauce with wonderful flavor right from the start! Next, stir in the flour to create a roux and let it cook for 1-2 minutes before pouring in the heavy cream. Stir continuously until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Once your sauce has thickened nicely, mix in the Parmesan cheese (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper until everything is combined and smooth. This flavorful sauce is what makes these scalloped potatoes so irresistible!

Step 5: Coat the Potatoes

Remove from heat and let cool slightly. In a large bowl, add those sliced potatoes and pour your luscious sauce over them. Gently toss to ensure each slice is coated—this will guarantee maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Arrange in Baking Dish

Stack those potato slices upright in your greased baking dish. Pour any leftover sauce over top and sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired. This adds that beautifully golden crust we all love!

Step 7: Bake Time!

Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 30 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be pure bliss!

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let them cool for about 10 minutes before digging in. This allows everything to settle nicely—the perfect time to gather everyone around the table!

Enjoy every creamy bite of these scalloped potatoes—they’re bound to become a family favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Making creamy scalloped potatoes can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture that makes them ideal for scalloping, ensuring that your dish is rich and satisfying.
• Slice Evenly: Using a mandolin or sharp knife to slice the potatoes uniformly will help them cook evenly. This reduces the risk of some slices being undercooked while others are overdone.
• Let the Sauce Cool Slightly: Allowing the sauce to cool slightly before mixing it with the potatoes helps prevent the slices from breaking apart and ensures even coating, resulting in beautifully layered potatoes.
• Cover with Foil Initially: Covering the baking dish with foil during the first half of cooking helps steam the potatoes, making them tender without burning the top. Remove it later for that dreamy golden crust.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting your scalloped potatoes sit for about 10 minutes after baking allows them to set up nicely, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.

How to Serve Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Creamy scalloped potatoes are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Presenting this dish well can make your meal feel extra special!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of grated Parmesan on top right before baking adds an extra layer of flavor and a delightful crunch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Green Beans: The crispness of roasted green beans complements the creaminess of scalloped potatoes, creating a lovely balance on your plate.
• Herb-Crusted Baked Chicken: This flavorful chicken dish pairs perfectly with scalloped potatoes, creating a hearty meal that’s sure to please any crowd.
• Simple Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the potatoes, adding brightness to your meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing a nice contrast in texture alongside the creamy potatoes.

With these ideas in mind, you’re ready to serve up your creamy scalloped potatoes in style! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These creamy scalloped potatoes are not only a delightful dish but also an excellent choice for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance, which makes serving a crowd during holidays or gatherings a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze them, do so before baking.
• Cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any covering from the dish and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about creamy scalloped potatoes that might help you out!

Can I make creamy scalloped potatoes without cheese?

Absolutely! You can simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. The creamy sauce will still be deliciously rich.

What makes creamy scalloped potatoes different from au gratin?

Creamy scalloped potatoes typically feature a white sauce made with cream, while au gratin often includes cheese mixed into the sauce or layered between the potato slices, giving it a distinct cheesy flavor.

How long can I keep creamy scalloped potatoes in the fridge?

You can store leftover creamy scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes! While Yukon gold potatoes work best for their texture and flavor, you may use other varieties such as russets or reds if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these creamy scalloped potatoes as they truly bring comfort and warmth to any meal. They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends during special occasions or simply as a delightful side dish on a weeknight. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to explore variations that suit your taste. Happy cooking!