Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

If ever a side dish could steal the spotlight at dinner, it would be Creamy Scalloped Potatoes. This classic comfort food features tender potato slices enveloped in a velvety, cheesy sauce, and baked to golden, bubbly perfection. Each decadent layer brings warmth and nostalgia, elevating any meal, whether it’s a holiday celebration or a cozy weeknight. If you’re searching for the ultimate recipe to satisfy your craving for indulgent, savory goodness, you’ve just found it—Creamy Scalloped Potatoes will be your new go-to!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the magic behind this dish. The list is blissfully short, but every ingredient plays a key role in delivering that signature flavor and texture we all adore. These staples make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes rich, luscious, and utterly unforgettable.

• Russet potatoes: Their high starch content ensures the sauce thickens beautifully and the slices become fall-apart tender.
• Heavy cream: This adds pure, silky richness—don’t be tempted to swap for anything lighter if you want that iconic creamy texture!
• Whole milk: Mixing milk with cream balances richness and keeps the potatoes moist.
• Unsalted butter: For the base of your sauce, butter delivers flavor and satiny mouthfeel.
• Garlic: A subtle hit of garlic perfumes the sauce and ties the flavors together.
• Onion: Sautéed onion brings a gentle sweetness and depth to the creamy sauce.
• Gruyère cheese: This cheese melts to perfection, lending a nutty, complex flavor without overpowering the potatoes.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: For that classic bold cheesiness and beautiful color on top.
• Fresh thyme: A touch of thyme brightens each bite, adding a delicate herbal note.
• Salt and black pepper: Absolutely essential for drawing out the full flavor of the potatoes and sauce.

How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

First, peel the russet potatoes and slice them as evenly and thinly as possible—about 1/8 inch thick. A mandoline slicer works wonders for uniform slices, but a sharp knife will do the trick if you’re careful. Even slices are key for perfectly cooked, tender layers in your Creamy Scalloped Potatoes.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, and let them cook gently until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step lays the foundation for a sauce that will infuse every bite with fantastic aroma and flavor.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour the heavy cream and milk into the pan with your sautéed aromatics. Gently bring the mixture just to a simmer (don’t let it boil). Sprinkle in half of the Gruyère and cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted. Add fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper, then remove from heat. The result is a smooth, dreamy sauce that will soak right into the potatoes as they bake.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously butter a baking dish. Arrange a layer of potato slices on the bottom, slightly overlapping them. Spoon over some of the creamy sauce. Repeat with more potatoes and sauce, creating those coveted layers, and finish with a final sprinkle of both cheeses on top.

Step 5: Bake and Brown

Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes so the potatoes steam through. Remove the foil, then bake for another 25-30 minutes until the top is deeply golden, bubbly, and irresistible. Let the Creamy Scalloped Potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens and settles perfectly.

How to Serve Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Garnishes

Finish your Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with a shower of fresh thyme leaves or finely chopped chives. A dusting of cracked black pepper adds extra pop. If you like a burst of freshness, a bit of lemon zest sprinkled on just before serving is a game changer.

Side Dishes

This side is hearty enough to pair with simple grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a holiday ham. For balance, serve Creamy Scalloped Potatoes alongside crisp green beans, sautéed asparagus, or a peppery arugula salad. The contrast of textures and flavors is so satisfying!

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Try baking individual portions in ramekins for dinner parties. Or, stack the slices artfully in a cast iron skillet for rustic flair. Another fun twist: layer in sautéed leeks or smoked ham for a new spin on Creamy Scalloped Potatoes at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are a gift. Cool them completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator up to four days. The flavors meld even more, making the next-day servings extra rich and savory.

Freezing

You can freeze Creamy Scalloped Potatoes—but for the best texture, do so before baking. Assemble the dish, wrap well, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as instructed, possibly adding extra time until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and hot. For individual servings, a microwave works too—just use medium power and short intervals to avoid drying out the creamy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes make a great substitute for russets and give an even creamier, buttery texture. Just be sure to slice them thinly and evenly for consistent cooking.

What’s the best way to get a golden, crisp top?

After baking covered, uncover the dish for the last half hour and sprinkle a little extra cheese on top. If you want even more color, place under the broiler for a minute or two—just watch closely to avoid burning!

Can I add other ingredients, like ham or vegetables?

Absolutely! Sautéed leeks, spinach, or diced ham can be layered between the potato slices for a heartier version. Just make sure any add-ins are pre-cooked and as dry as possible to maintain the creamy texture.

How can I make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes gluten free?

This recipe doesn’t typically use flour, making it naturally gluten free. Double check that your cheese and other ingredients don’t have hidden gluten, and you’re good to go!

What’s the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin?

Scalloped potatoes are usually made with a creamy sauce, whereas au gratin potatoes always include cheese. This Creamy Scalloped Potatoes recipe offers the best of both worlds—a luscious cream sauce and a generous amount of cheese in every mouthful!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are irresistible in every way—comforting, celebratory, and downright decadent. I hope you give this recipe a place at your table and let it work its magic for your family and friends. There’s nothing like sharing a bubbling dish of cheesy, creamy perfection. Enjoy every bite!

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