Classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe – Creamy & Cheesy Comfort

Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food dish featuring layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is popular as a side for holiday feasts, family dinners, or special occasions. The velvety, cheesy texture and golden-brown crust make it an irresistible addition to any meal.

Homemade scalloped potatoes are incredibly easy to prepare and taste far superior to store-bought versions. With just a few simple ingredients—potatoes, butter, cream, and cheese—you can create a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. In this guide, we will take you through every step, ensuring your scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly creamy and delicious every time.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cuisine: American, French
• Course: Side Dish
• Servings: 6

Equipment Needed

• Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Oven

Ingredients

• 4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife, thinly slice the potatoes to about ⅛-inch thick. Place them in a bowl of cold water to remove excess starch, which helps the potatoes become tender and creamy.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika, mixing well.
5. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Remove the sauce from heat.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes

1. Drain the potato slices and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Arrange a layer of potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Pour a portion of the creamy cheese sauce over the potatoes.
4. Repeat the layers until all potatoes and sauce are used.
5. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the top turns golden brown and bubbly.

Step 6: Let It Rest & Serve

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
3. Serve warm as a delicious side dish to roasted meats, chicken, or a holiday feast.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

• Use the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best because they have the perfect starch content for a creamy texture.
• Slice Evenly: Use a mandoline slicer to ensure uniform slices, which helps with even cooking.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the dish rest before serving allows the sauce to set, making it easier to serve.
• Make it Extra Cheesy: Add Gruyère or Swiss cheese for a more complex flavor.
• Add Protein: You can add ham, bacon, or cooked chicken to make this a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked scalloped potatoes for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes or until heated through. Microwave in short intervals if needed.

Variations

• Garlic Herb Scalloped Potatoes: Add rosemary, thyme, or chives to the sauce for extra aroma.
• Spicy Scalloped Potatoes: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream and substitute dairy-free cheese.

Final Thoughts

Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish, perfect for any occasion. With their creamy texture, rich cheese sauce, and golden crust, they pair well with a variety of main courses. Whether for a family dinner or a holiday feast, this scalloped potatoes recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Give this easy homemade recipe a try, and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Happy cooking!