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If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that combines creamy, cheesy, and perfectly tender potatoes all in one beautiful bake, then you’re in for a real treat with this Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. This timeless comfort food brings together layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a luxuriously velvety cream sauce, topped with a golden, bubbly cheese crust that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether it’s a holiday feast, a cozy family dinner, or a special gathering, this recipe promises a crowd-pleasing side dish that feels both nostalgic and indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together in a way that’s nothing short of magic. Each one plays an essential role in creating the dish’s creamy texture, deep flavor, and gorgeous presentation, proving that sometimes the best dishes are the simplest.
- Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes: Their starch content ensures a creamy, tender texture after baking.
- Cheese (Cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan): Adds richness and a savory crust that melts beautifully on top.
- Heavy cream and milk: Combine to form a lush, velvety sauce that lovingly coats every potato slice.
- Onions: Bring a natural sweetness and depth that balance the creaminess.
- Garlic: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth that lingers with every bite.
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, nutmeg, or thyme): Elevate the flavor with subtle hints of spice and herbaceous notes.
How to Make Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling your potatoes and slicing them evenly. Using a mandoline slicer here is a game changer because it ensures each slice is just the right thickness, promoting even cooking and that coveted creamy texture without any mushiness or undercooked spots.
Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce
Next, gently simmer the heavy cream, milk, garlic, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like nutmeg or thyme in a saucepan. Let the mixture come together over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, until it’s fragrant and slightly thickened—this sauce is the soul of your scalloped potatoes, so take your time to infuse it with those cozy flavors.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Butter or spray your baking dish to prevent sticking. Now, build your scalloped masterpiece in layers: start with a bed of sliced potatoes, then sprinkle a portion of onions, drizzle some of that creamy sauce over, and finish with a generous handful of your chosen cheese. Repeat this process until you’ve used all your ingredients, ending with a cheese layer on top to guarantee a golden, bubbly finish.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover your dish with foil and pop it in the oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake covered for about 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to soften and absorb the flavors beautifully. After this, remove the foil, sprinkle on a little more cheese, and return it to the oven uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes. This step creates that alluring golden crust that’s both crispy and gooey, making every bite a delight.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the scalloped potatoes rest for a few minutes. This resting period helps the sauce set just right, making it easier to serve and enjoy without losing all its luscious creaminess. Serve hot alongside your favorite main courses, and prepare for the compliments to roll in!
How to Serve Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a fresh bite that balances the richness beautifully. A light sprinkle right before serving brightens the dish and invites everyone to dive right in.
Side Dishes
Scalloped potatoes shine as a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats such as chicken, beef, or pork. They also complement crisp green salads or steamed vegetables, offering the perfect balance of indulgence and freshness on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special occasion, consider serving scalloped potatoes in individual ramekins or mini cocottes. This not only enhances presentation but also makes portion control easier and adds a touch of elegance to your table setting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover them tightly to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze scalloped potatoes for longer storage, but it’s best to do so before baking. Assemble the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes, to preserve the creamy texture and crispy top. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that signature golden crust intact.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet or Yukon Gold?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a lovely natural sweetness and vibrant color, but keep in mind they have a different texture and might need a slightly longer baking time to become perfectly tender.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for the smoothest, creamiest texture, but if you prefer extra fiber and rustic charm, you can leave the skins on—just be sure to wash them thoroughly and slice evenly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and choose a dairy-free cheese to enjoy a vegan-friendly version that’s still deliciously creamy.
How thin should the potato slices be?
About 1/8 inch thick is ideal. Thin slices cook evenly and meld perfectly with the sauce while still holding their shape.
Why does the recipe suggest letting the dish rest before serving?
Resting allows the sauce to thicken and settle, preventing it from running when you cut into the dish. It also helps the flavors meld, giving you a more cohesive and luscious bite.
Final Thoughts
This Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe truly is a celebration of comfort food done right. From its rich, velvety layers to the golden, cheesy crust on top, every spoonful feels like a warm hug. I encourage you to try it for your next meal and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite in your household, worthy of being called the best.
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Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
Description
This classic recipe for Best Scalloped Potatoes features thinly sliced russet or Yukon Gold potatoes baked in a creamy sauce made from heavy cream, milk, onions, garlic, and your choice of cheese. Seasoned with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg or thyme, the dish is layered and baked until golden and bubbly, yielding a rich and velvety side perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme (optional)
Other
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan cheese (or a mix), divided
- Butter or cooking spray, for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes evenly using a mandoline to ensure uniform thickness, which promotes even cooking and creamy texture.
- Make Cream Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg or thyme. Simmer for 5-7 minutes over medium heat until fragrant and well combined.
- Layer Ingredients: Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Begin by layering sliced potatoes, followed by a sprinkle of onions, a drizzle of the cream sauce, and a generous layer of cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil, top with additional cheese, and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for a few minutes before serving so the sauce can set. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- Using a mandoline helps achieve even slicing for consistent cooking.
- Russet potatoes provide a starchiness that creates a creamier texture, but Yukon Golds are a great buttery alternative.
- Feel free to mix different cheeses to customize flavor and richness.
- Covering during baking steams the potatoes, while uncovering allows the cheese to brown perfectly.
- Allow resting time after baking so the dish holds together better when served.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
