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
Scale
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
