Scalloped Potatoes (Creamy, Cheesy, Classic Comfort Food)

Introduction

Scalloped Potatoes are a timeless comfort food that brings warmth, richness, and nostalgia to the table. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered and baked in a creamy, savory sauce until tender and bubbling, creating a dish that’s both simple and deeply satisfying. Whether served alongside a holiday roast or as a cozy family dinner side, scalloped potatoes never go out of style.

What makes scalloped potatoes so special is their texture. The potatoes become melt-in-your-mouth tender while soaking up a velvety cream sauce infused with butter, onion, and gentle seasoning. Unlike au gratin potatoes, traditional scalloped potatoes rely on creaminess rather than heavy cheese, allowing the natural flavor of the potatoes to shine.

This dish is incredibly versatile. It can be kept classic and simple or enhanced with cheese, herbs, or garlic depending on the occasion. Scalloped potatoes are also a fantastic make-ahead option, reheating beautifully without losing their creamy texture.

If you’re looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs with nearly anything, scalloped potatoes are a must-have recipe in your kitchen.

Ingredients

3 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 ½ cups whole milk or half-and-half

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and slice potatoes into thin, even rounds (about ⅛-inch thick). Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add chopped onion and cook until softened and fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens slightly. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Remove from heat once smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Grease a baking dish. Layer half of the potatoes evenly in the dish, pour half of the sauce over them, then repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce. Add cheese between layers if using.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and potatoes are fork-tender. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Add shredded cheese between layers.

Garlic Herb Version: Add minced garlic and fresh thyme or rosemary.

Ham & Potatoes: Layer diced cooked ham between potatoes.

Cream-Free Option: Use broth and milk alternatives for a lighter dish.

Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.

Cooking Notes

Slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.

Use Yukon Gold potatoes for extra creaminess.

Let the dish rest before serving to allow sauce to thicken.

Cover tightly during the first bake to prevent drying.

Serving Suggestions

Serve scalloped potatoes alongside roasted chicken, beef, ham, or pork. They’re perfect for holiday meals like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter, but just as comforting for weeknight dinners. Pair with green vegetables for balance.

Tips

A mandoline slicer helps achieve even slices.

Warm milk before adding to sauce to prevent lumps.

Taste the sauce before assembling and adjust seasoning.

Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

85 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 320

Protein: 7g

Sodium: 420mg

FAQs

What’s the difference between scalloped and au gratin potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes focus on a creamy sauce, while au gratin includes cheese.

Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, assemble ahead and bake when ready, or bake and reheat.

Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in the cream sauce.

Why are my potatoes still hard?
Slices may be too thick or baking time too short.

Conclusion

Scalloped Potatoes are a classic, comforting side dish that delivers creamy richness and tender texture in every bite. Simple to prepare and endlessly versatile, this dish belongs on both everyday dinner tables and special holiday spreads. Once you master this recipe, scalloped potatoes will become a go-to favorite you’ll make again and again.

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