The Ultimate Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Cheesy & Irresistible!

 The Superb Scalloped Potatoes Recipe: Rich, Velvety, and Absolutely Irresistible! A Must-Try Delicacy That Will Delight Your Tastebuds And Leave Your Guests Craving For More. Introduction

Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food, known for their creamy, rich, and cheesy texture. Whether you’re serving them as a holiday side dish, a family dinner staple, or a crowd-pleasing potluck favorite, this recipe delivers perfectly tender potatoes baked in a luxuriously creamy sauce.

The difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes
How to make scalloped potatoes from scratch
The best types of potatoes to use
Delicious variations with cheese, bacon, ham, and more!
Tips to prevent curdling and achieve a smooth sauce
Storage, reheating, and make-ahead instructions
Common mistakes and how to fix them

Let’s dive into the best scalloped potatoes recipe you’ll ever make!

What Are Scalloped Potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes are thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, buttery sauce. The dish is rich, comforting, and pairs well with many main courses like roast chicken, steak, or ham.

Scalloped Potatoes vs. Potatoes au Gratin – What’s the Difference?

Many people confuse scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes. While they are similar, here’s the key difference:

This recipe includes an optional cheesy version if you love extra richness!

Ingredients for the Best Scalloped Potatoes

Main Ingredients:

• Potatoes Choose Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture.
• Butter Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
• Flour Helps thicken the creamy sauce.
• Milk & Heavy Cream The base of the luscious sauce.
• Onion & Garlic Enhances the flavor.
• Salt, Pepper & Nutmeg Classic seasonings for a perfect taste.

Optional Additions:

Cheese: Cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan (if making a cheesy version).
Ham: A great way to make it a heartier dish.
Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley for extra flavor.

How to Make Scalloped Potatoes from Scratch

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
3. Thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick) using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer.
4. Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry. This removes excess starch and prevents the dish from being too gummy.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions and garlic; cook until soft and fragrant.
3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute (this forms a roux).
4. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for depth of flavor.

Pro Tip: If making a cheesy version, stir in ½ cup of shredded cheese at this stage for extra richness.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish.
2. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potatoes.
3. Repeat with another layer of potatoes and sauce.
4. If using cheese, sprinkle a layer between each set of potatoes for a cheesy scalloped potato dish.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
3. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving this helps the sauce thicken.

For Extra Crispy Topping:

• Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a golden, slightly crisp top.
• Sprinkle Parmesan or breadcrumbs for added texture.

Delicious Scalloped Potato Variations

Scalloped Potatoes with Chicken: Add shredded or diced chicken for a complete meal.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Mix cheddar and Parmesan into the sauce and sprinkle extra cheese on top.
Scalloped Potatoes with Ham: Layer in diced ham for a hearty, filling dish.
Spicy Scalloped Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.

Serving Suggestions What Pairs Well with Scalloped Potatoes?

With Beef: Perfect with steak, roast beef, or meatloaf.
With Poultry: Great with roast chicken, turkey, or baked chicken thighs.
With Seafood: Pairs well with baked salmon or grilled shrimp.
With Vegetables: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or a fresh green salad.

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips

Make Ahead Instructions

 Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate.
 When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best texture.

Reheating Tips

• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals to avoid drying out.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

1. Why Are My Scalloped Potatoes Hard?

Undercooking Make sure to bake them long enough!
Solution: Cover with foil for the first 45 minutes to allow steaming.

2. Why Is My Sauce Curdling?

Using low-fat milk can cause curdling.
Solution: Use heavy cream and avoid overheating the sauce.

3. My Scalloped Potatoes Are Too Runny How Do I Fix It?

Too much liquid or not enough thickening.
Solution: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Final Thoughts

Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate side dish rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you make them classic, cheesy, or loaded with bacon, this recipe guarantees perfect results every time.

Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out!