Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s warm, comforting, and downright delicious, you’ve come to the right place! Creamy scalloped potatoes are a family favorite in my home. They have a rich, cheesy sauce that clings to each slice of tender potato, creating a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive holiday gathering, these creamy scalloped potatoes will make everyone feel right at home.

What makes this recipe so special is not just the flavor but also how easy it is to prepare. With simple, wholesome ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find yourself making this dish time and again. Trust me; once you serve these creamy scalloped potatoes at your dinner table, they’ll quickly become a staple in your meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery garlic and cheesy goodness creates an irresistible taste that everyone loves.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these creamy potatoes, making them an ideal choice for family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dish in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile Side Dish: These scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to veggie burgers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully to create that rich, creamy sauce we all crave.

For the Potatoes

• 5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream (or 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

One of the best things about creamy scalloped potatoes is how flexible the recipe can be! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Veggies: Toss in some thinly sliced onions or fresh spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
• Cheese Lovers Unite: Swap out Parmesan for cheddar or Gruyère for a different cheesy twist!
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs such as rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a kick of heat.

How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F. This step ensures that your creamy scalloped potatoes bake evenly and develop that beautiful golden brown color we all love.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandolin or sharp knife, slice your Yukon gold potatoes as thinly as possible (about 1/16th of an inch). The thinner the slices, the more tender they will become during baking. It’s important for them to cook evenly!

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Roux

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter together with the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor to your sauce. Next, stir in the flour to create a roux. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes until it turns slightly golden.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Now it’s time to stir in the heavy cream! Keep stirring until your sauce thickens—this usually takes around 5 minutes. Once thickened, mix in the Parmesan cheese (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper until everything is smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Combine Potatoes with Sauce

Take those sliced potatoes and add them to a large bowl. Pour your heavenly sauce over top and gently toss everything together. You want every slice coated with that luscious sauce!

Step 6: Arrange in Baking Dish

Stack those potato slices upright in your greased ceramic baking dish. Pour any leftover sauce over them generously! If you’re feeling extra cheesy, sprinkle some more Parmesan on top.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes. After that time has passed, remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 30 minutes until everything is golden brown and perfectly cooked through.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once they’re out of the oven, let your creamy scalloped potatoes cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This little wait helps everything set up nicely!

Enjoy sharing these creamy scalloped potatoes with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Creating the perfect creamy scalloped potatoes is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish!

• Use a mandolin: Slicing your potatoes uniformly ensures even cooking and a delightful texture throughout.
• Let the sauce cool slightly: This helps it thicken before mixing with the potatoes, which creates a creamier final dish and prevents the sauce from running off.
• Layer your ingredients: For an even flavor distribution, consider layering potato slices with sauce in the baking dish instead of mixing them all at once. This will enhance the taste in every bite!
• Experiment with cheeses: While Parmesan is a classic choice, feel free to mix in Gruyère or cheddar for a unique twist on flavor.
• Rest before serving: Allowing your scalloped potatoes to sit for about 10 minutes after baking lets the layers set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.

How to Serve Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Creamy scalloped potatoes are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them an impressive addition to any table setting. Here are some ideas on how to present this savory side dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting right before serving enhances both presentation and flavor, bringing out the earthiness of the potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slight bitterness contrasts beautifully with the creamy richness of scalloped potatoes, creating a balanced plate.
• Honey-glazed carrots: The natural sweetness of honey-glazed carrots pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of scalloped potatoes, adding brightness to your meal.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of this dish.
• Grilled asparagus: The charred flavor of grilled asparagus adds depth and texture, making for an elegant accompaniment that complements each bite.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re ready to wow your family and friends with your creamy scalloped potatoes! Enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These creamy scalloped potatoes are not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare them ahead of time, making your holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners even easier!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the scalloped potatoes, it’s best to do so before baking.
• Wrap the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap and then cover with aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Reheating

• To reheat refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the potatoes in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through, adding a little cream or milk if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQs

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

Can I make creamy scalloped potatoes without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter version while still achieving a creamy consistency.

How do I ensure my creamy scalloped potatoes don’t turn out watery?

To prevent watery scalloped potatoes, make sure to slice the potatoes evenly and allow the sauce to thicken properly before mixing it with the potatoes. Also, avoid using too much liquid when baking.

Can I use different types of cheese in my creamy scalloped potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère for unique flavors. Just remember that this may alter the overall taste slightly.

How long does it take to bake creamy scalloped potatoes?

Baking creamy scalloped potatoes typically takes around 60 minutes—30 minutes covered with foil and another 30 minutes uncovered until they are golden brown and tender.

Are creamy scalloped potatoes suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They are perfect for meal prep as they store well in the fridge and even freeze nicely before baking. You can enjoy them throughout the week!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these creamy scalloped potatoes! They’re a comforting side that brings warmth to any meal, making it truly special. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy dinner at home, I’m confident you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and don’t forget to share your experiences!