Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that will steal the show at your next gathering, these Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are just what you need. With their rich, cheesy sauce and crispy edges, they’re sure to become a family favorite. I love making this dish for holiday meals or cozy dinners at home because it’s not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare. Plus, who can resist that creamy goodness?

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, these scalloped potatoes fit right in. They pair beautifully with almost any main dish and always bring smiles to the table. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require fancy techniques—perfect for cooks of all skill levels!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike love creamy potatoes, making this dish a hit for any meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare them in advance and simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, thyme, and cheese creates an irresistible taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these Creamy Scalloped Potatoes, you’ll be using some simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Let’s check them out!

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 (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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in thinly sliced onions or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
• Change the Cheese: Try using Gruyere or cheddar instead of Parmesan for a different cheesy twist.
• Herb It Up: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg to give your creamy sauce an extra kick.

How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve those lovely golden edges we all crave.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a medium-sized ceramic baking dish. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 3: 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 them to cook evenly and absorb that luscious sauce.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until aromatic. This step builds a flavorful base for your sauce. Next, stir in the flour to create a roux; cooking it briefly removes any raw flour taste.

Step 5: Add the Cream

Slowly stir in the heavy cream (or your chosen substitute) while continuing to stir until thickened—about 5 minutes. This creamy mixture is what gives our scalloped potatoes that indulgent texture!

Step 6: Incorporate Seasonings

Add in the Parmesan cheese (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is smooth and well combined; you want every bite packed with flavor.

Step 7: Coat the Potatoes

In a large bowl, combine your sliced potatoes with the sauce, tossing gently to coat each slice evenly. This ensures every potato piece has that delicious flavor.

Step 8: Arrange in Baking Dish

Stack the potato slices upright in your greased baking dish. Pour any leftover sauce over top—don’t waste that goodness! If you’d like, sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top for an added cheesy crust.

Step 9: Bake Covered

Tent your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 400°F for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 10: Let Cool Before Serving

Once they are out of the oven, let your Creamy Scalloped Potatoes cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows them to firm up slightly, making them easier to serve.

Enjoy this delightful side dish with your loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

These creamy scalloped potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal, and with a few pro tips, you can make them even better!

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes: Their buttery flavor and creamy texture create the perfect foundation for this dish, ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying.
• Slice evenly: Using a mandolin or sharp knife to slice the potatoes uniformly helps them cook evenly, resulting in perfectly tender potatoes throughout.
• Let the sauce cool slightly: Allowing your sauce to cool for a few minutes before mixing it with the potatoes will help prevent them from becoming mushy while baking.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing your scalloped potatoes to rest after baking lets the flavors meld and makes serving easier, so they hold their shape beautifully on the plate.
• Experiment with cheese blends: While Parmesan adds a lovely nuttiness, try mixing in Gruyère or cheddar for an extra depth of flavor that complements the creaminess.

How to Serve Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Serving creamy scalloped potatoes is all about presentation and pairing. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds color and freshness, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor profile of the dish.
• Extra cheese: A light dusting of additional grated cheese on top just before serving can add an inviting melty layer that tempts everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor while adding nutrition to your meal.
• Grilled chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs complements the richness of scalloped potatoes without overwhelming their flavor.
• Garden salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the creaminess of the potatoes, making for a well-rounded plate.
• Baked fish: Lightly seasoned baked fish provides a delicate touch that pairs beautifully with the hearty nature of scalloped potatoes, perfect for those looking for lighter options.

With these serving tips and side recommendations, your creamy scalloped potatoes will be sure to impress all your guests! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

These creamy scalloped potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance, making your holiday meals a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover creamy scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• For best results, reheat only the portion you plan to eat.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Frozen creamy scalloped potatoes can last for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• For frozen scalloped potatoes, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes, covered, then remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to crisp the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you with your creamy scalloped potatoes!

Can I make creamy scalloped potatoes without cheese?

Absolutely! If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can simply omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. The creamy sauce will still be delicious and full of flavor!

How do I ensure my creamy scalloped potatoes are not watery?

To prevent watery scalloped potatoes, make sure to slice your potatoes evenly and avoid overcooking them during baking. Letting them cool briefly after baking can also help thicken the sauce as it sets.

What can I serve with creamy scalloped potatoes?

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

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these creamy scalloped potatoes! They’re more than just a side dish; they’re a comforting addition to any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, these cheesy delights are sure to impress. Enjoy creating this special recipe and savoring every bite!