When you think of ultimate comfort food, Scalloped Potatoes immediately come to mind. Golden, bubbling, and irresistibly creamy, this classic baked dish turns simple potatoes into a hearty masterpiece. Perfect for family dinners, festive holidays, or potluck gatherings, scalloped potatoes are a side dish that steals the spotlight.
🌟 What Exactly Are Scalloped Potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes are made by layering thin slices of potatoes in a casserole dish, then baking them in a creamy, garlicky sauce until tender. The top develops a rich golden crust, while the inside stays soft and creamy.
Some recipes are made with just cream (the traditional scalloped style), while others add cheese (often called Potatoes au Gratin). The version here is indulgent and cheesy — baked in the oven until bubbly perfection.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 5–6 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet, thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for richer flavor)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus ½ cup extra for topping)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a medium casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in milk, whisking until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in 1 cup cheese, plus salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
3. Layer the Potatoes
- Place a layer of thin potato slices in the casserole dish.
- Spoon some sauce over the top.
- Continue layering potatoes and sauce until everything is used, ending with sauce on top.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
5. Rest & Serve
- Let the dish sit for 10 minutes before serving (this helps the sauce set).
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
🍴 Serving Ideas
Scalloped Potatoes are the perfect side dish for:
- Roast chicken, beef, or turkey
- Holiday hams or lamb roasts
- A crisp garden salad or steamed vegetables
They’re rich enough to stand on their own, but shine brightest as part of a hearty meal.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Extra cheesy: Use a blend of cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan.
- Herb boost: Add thyme, rosemary, or nutmeg to the cream sauce.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.
- Crispier top: Switch to the oven broiler for the last 2–3 minutes.
🧊 Storage & Leftovers
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Freeze baked scalloped potatoes in portions for up to 2 months.
✅ Final Thoughts
Scalloped Potatoes are a timeless, oven-baked favorite that transforms humble potatoes into something luxurious. With their creamy layers, golden crust, and rich flavor, they’re a dish that never fails to impress. Whether for holidays, family dinners, or a cozy night in, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your collection.