Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s as comforting as a hug, then these Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are just what you need. With a rich, cheesy sauce and crispy edges, they quickly become a family favorite at our gatherings. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive celebration, this dish always brings smiles to the dinner table.

What makes this recipe even more special is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients to create something truly delicious. Just gather your loved ones, whip up this creamy goodness, and enjoy the moments that matter most.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Cheesy: The combination of cream and cheese creates a luscious flavor that pairs beautifully with any main dish.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few steps, you can have this creamy side ready to bake in less than 15 minutes!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike love the creamy texture and comforting taste—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. It’s great for stress-free entertaining.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy dinners at home; these scalloped potatoes fit any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun. For these Creamy Scalloped Potatoes, you’ll need:

For the Potatoes

• 5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Sauce

• 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

These ingredients come together to create a comforting dish that everyone will love!

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some variations to consider:

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in thinly sliced onions or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Try Different Cheeses: Swap out Parmesan for Gruyère or cheddar to switch things up.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 400°F. This ensures your potatoes bake evenly and become perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Slice Your Potatoes

Using a mandolin or sharp knife, slice the potatoes as thinly as possible (about 1/16th of an inch). Thinner slices cook more evenly and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter with minced garlic until fragrant. This step infuses your sauce with delicious garlic flavor. Next, stir in flour to create a roux. Allow it to cook for 1-2 minutes before adding heavy cream. Keep stirring until thickened—this should take about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Mix in Cheese and Seasonings

Once thickened, stir in Parmesan cheese (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth. This is where your sauce comes alive!

Step 5: Combine Potatoes and Sauce

Remove from heat and let cool slightly. In a large bowl, add sliced potatoes and pour the creamy sauce over them. Gently toss everything together to ensure each slice is coated.

Step 6: Arrange in Baking Dish

Stack the potato slices upright in your greased baking dish. Pour any remaining sauce over top, sprinkling extra Parmesan if desired. This adds an irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 30 minutes until golden brown. The crispy edges are my favorite part!

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let your Creamy Scalloped Potatoes cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together nicely.

Now you’re ready to dig into this delicious side dish! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Creating the perfect creamy scalloped potatoes is easier than you think with a few handy tips!

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes: These potatoes are naturally creamy and have a buttery flavor that enhances the dish, making them the ideal choice for scalloping.
• Don’t rush the roux: Taking the time to cook your flour and butter mixture helps develop a deeper flavor in your sauce, resulting in a richer final dish.
• Slice evenly: Aim for uniform potato slices (about 1/16th of an inch). This ensures they cook evenly, giving you that perfect creamy texture throughout.
• Let it rest: Allowing the scalloped potatoes to rest for about 10 minutes after baking lets the flavors meld and makes serving much easier.
• Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for a unique twist. Each cheese brings its own flavor profile, allowing you to customize this classic dish.

How to Serve Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Creamy scalloped potatoes make a stunning centerpiece on any dinner table. Their inviting golden crust and delicious aroma will surely impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich potatoes.
• Crumbled feta cheese: For an unexpected twist, sprinkle crumbled feta on top just before serving. It adds a tangy note that complements the creaminess of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring both color and nutrition to your plate. Their earthy sweetness pairs perfectly with cheesy potatoes.
• Green Salad: A crisp salad dressed in vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of scalloped potatoes. Think mixed greens or arugula with light citrus dressing!
• Grilled Chicken: Simple grilled chicken seasoned with herbs can be an excellent protein addition, balancing well with the creamy side dish.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover cheesy sauce from your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your creamy scalloped potatoes will not only taste amazing but also look fantastic on your dining table! Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

These creamy scalloped potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare them ahead of time, making your holiday or weeknight meals a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, label and date your package.

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
• If needed, cover with foil to prevent over-browning while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious creamy scalloped potatoes.

Can I make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half and half for a lighter version. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious!

How do I get crispy edges on my Creamy Scalloped Potatoes?

To achieve those wonderful crispy edges, make sure you bake the dish uncovered during the last half of cooking. This allows for browning and enhances flavor!

Can I add vegetables to my Creamy Scalloped Potatoes?

Yes, you can add veggies like spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition! Just ensure they are cooked beforehand so they don’t release too much moisture into the dish.

How long will Creamy Scalloped Potatoes last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, creamy scalloped potatoes will last about 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these creamy scalloped potatoes! They’re not just a side dish; they’re comfort food that brings people together. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!