Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that screams comfort and warmth, these Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are just what you need! Imagine layers of tender Yukon gold potatoes bathed in a rich, cheesy sauce, baked to perfection with crispy edges. This recipe is a family favorite in my home, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. It’s easy enough to whip up on busy evenings yet impressive enough to serve at special occasions.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. You can enjoy it alongside roasted chicken, grilled veggies, or as the star of your Thanksgiving table. Trust me when I say that once you try these creamy scalloped potatoes, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Cheesy: The creamy sauce combined with Parmesan cheese creates a flavor that everyone loves.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can have this comforting dish ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore these potatoes; they’re a hit at every dinner table!
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving—so convenient!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive holiday meal, these scalloped potatoes fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our creamy scalloped potatoes! These are pantry staples that you might already have on hand.

For the Potatoes

• 5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream (you can substitute with 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 this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have at home or what flavors you love.

• Add veggies: Layer in some fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique twist.
• Go dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan option.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little kick!

How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a medium-sized ceramic baking dish. Preheating ensures even cooking, so your creamy scalloped potatoes come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandolin or sharp knife, slice the potatoes as thinly as possible (about 1/16th of an inch). Thin slices allow for even cooking and help absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter with the garlic until aromatic. This step adds wonderful depth to the dish. Next, stir in the flour to create a roux; let it cook for 1-2 minutes before slowly adding the heavy cream. Keep stirring until thickened—this will give our potatoes that luxurious texture!

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Stir in the Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper until everything is combined and smooth. The cheese adds richness while enhancing that cheesy goodness we all love!

Step 5: Combine Potatoes and Sauce

Remove from heat and let cool slightly. In a large bowl, add the sliced potatoes and pour the sauce over top. Gently toss to coat every slice—this ensures every bite is creamy and flavorful.

Step 6: Arrange in Baking Dish

Stack the potato slices upright in the greased baking dish. Pour any leftover sauce over them and sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired. This layering technique not only looks beautiful but helps achieve those crispy edges.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Tent with aluminum foil and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The foil helps steam the potatoes initially while allowing them to crisp up nicely later on.

Step 8: Serve with Love

Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives them time to set up just right so they hold their shape on your plate—perfect for sharing with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Creating the perfect creamy scalloped potatoes is easier than you might think, especially with these handy tips to ensure your dish turns out fabulously!

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes: These potatoes have a naturally creamy texture and buttery flavor that make them ideal for scalloping, ensuring your dish is rich and satisfying.

• Slice evenly: Aim for uniform slices (about 1/16th of an inch) to promote even cooking. A mandolin slicer can help achieve this precision, resulting in perfectly tender potatoes.

• Don’t skip the roux: Cooking the flour with the butter and garlic creates a flavorful base for your sauce. This step thickens it properly, leading to that delightful creamy consistency you crave.

• Let the sauce cool slightly: Allowing the sauce to cool before mixing it with the potatoes helps it adhere better, preventing it from becoming runny during baking.

• Bake covered and uncovered: Tenting with foil initially traps steam to cook the potatoes through, while removing it later allows the top to crisp up beautifully. This contrast in texture is what makes scalloped potatoes so irresistible!

How to Serve Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Serving creamy scalloped potatoes can be as simple or elegant as you like! Present them in a lovely baking dish right from the oven or transfer them to a serving platter for a more polished look. Either way, they are sure to impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this vibrant herb adds color and brightness that complements the richness of the potatoes.
• Extra Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan on top just before serving enhances both flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slight bitterness contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes, adding depth to your meal.
• Honey-glazed carrots: The sweetness of these glazed carrots perfectly balances out the savory flavors of the scalloped potatoes.
• Green salad with vinaigrette: Crisp greens tossed in a tangy vinaigrette provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the dish.
• Grilled asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add a touch of elegance and freshness that pairs wonderfully with creamy textures.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your creamy scalloped potatoes will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your holiday table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These creamy scalloped potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them to save time on busy weeknights or during holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Item: Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely.
• Item: Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Item: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Item: Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Item: Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Item: Freeze for up to 2 months. For best quality, label with the date.

Reheating

• Item: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Item: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Item: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to crisp the top.

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 still enjoy a delicious sauce by omitting the cheese or using a dairy-free cheese alternative. The creamy texture will still be delightful.

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

You can store creamy scalloped potatoes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are in an airtight container!

Can I use other types of potatoes for creamy scalloped potatoes?

Yes! While Yukon golds work beautifully, you can also try Russet or red potatoes. Just ensure they’re sliced thinly for even cooking.

What can I serve with creamy scalloped potatoes?

Creamy scalloped potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad. They’re versatile enough to complement many main dishes!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these creamy scalloped potatoes as much as I do! They bring warmth and comfort to any meal, making them a special addition to your table. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, these cheesy delights are bound to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how they turned out for you!