A classic comfort food, creamy scalloped potatoes are a rich, flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. Made with tender potato slices layered in a velvety, cheesy sauce, this recipe delivers the ultimate combination of taste and texture.
Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a festive gathering, these scalloped potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The slow baking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that is irresistibly creamy and delicious. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, you can achieve restaurant-quality scalloped potatoes right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes – Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into uniform rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer. Soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry.
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Make the Creamy Sauce – In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about a minute until the mixture turns golden brown. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk while whisking to prevent lumps.
- Season and Thicken – Stir in salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, onion powder, and nutmeg. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and mix in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Layer the Potatoes – Arrange half of the potato slices evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the creamy cheese sauce over them, ensuring even coverage. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
- Add Extra Cheese – Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top layer for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake to Perfection – Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling, and the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Let it Rest – Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and enhances the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm alongside your favorite main dish.
Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes
- For extra richness, substitute half of the cheddar cheese with Gruyère or mozzarella.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture if you prefer a slightly softer bite.
- Adding a layer of caramelized onions or crispy bacon between the potatoes enhances the flavor.
- To make the dish ahead, assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
This creamy scalloped potatoes recipe is a timeless dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. With its luscious, cheesy layers and tender potatoes, it’s a guaranteed favorite for any occasion. Enjoy!