Scalloped Potatoes

By:

Lauren

Published:

October 12, 2025

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Scalloped potatoes are one of those dishes that can instantly transport you to a cozy family gathering or a blissful holiday feast. Picture golden layers of thinly sliced Idaho potatoes, swimming in a rich, creamy sauce, and topped with bubbling, melted cheese. Doesn’t that just make your mouth water? This recipe is all about balancing flavors and textures, taking simple ingredients and turning them into something truly memorable. And the best part? It’s easy enough for a casual weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for special occasions. As you gather with friends or family around the table, these scalloped potatoes will undoubtedly become a beloved staple. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some delicious, cheesy goodness together!

Why This Recipe Works

Scalloped potatoes are the epitome of comfort food, offering a creamy and cheesy indulgence that warms the heart. This recipe balances the flavors and textures of perfectly sliced Idaho potatoes with a velvety cream sauce and melted cheese, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience. The layers of potatoes soak up the sauce, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Plus, the combination of cheddar cheese and sautéed onions brings an extra punch of flavor, making this dish one you’ll want to make time and time again.

Why You’ll Love This Scalloped Potatoes

Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home, these scalloped potatoes will quickly become a staple. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also allow for creativity. You can play around with seasonings and garnishes, catering to both classic and modern tastes. The richness of the scalloped potatoes pairs well with many mains, making them versatile too. Imagine how lovely they will look on your dining table, making each meal feel a bit more special.

Ingredients

3 pounds Idaho potatoes (about 4 large)
6 tbsp salted butter
1 1/4 cups finely diced onion (about 1/2 large onion)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 1/2 cups milk
1 tsp salt (plus more, to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese
Fresh chives or parsley (for garnish)

Preparing the Potatoes

Peel and Slice the Potatoes

Begin by peeling the Idaho potatoes. Rinse them under cool water, then slice them into 1/4-inch thick pieces. Be sure to keep them evenly sliced to ensure a nice, consistent texture when baked. Setting them aside for a bit can help maintain their crispiness.

Making the Cream Sauce

Sauté Onions

In a deep skillet over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Add the finely diced onions and sauté until they are lightly browned and fragrant, which should take about 5 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around.

Create the Roux

Next, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, whisking until you have a smooth paste. This roux is essential as it forms the base for your creamy sauce. Just keep whisking to avoid any lumps; trust me, your future self will thank you!

Whisk in the Milk

Now it’s time to gradually add the milk to the roux. Whisk continuously until the mixture begins to simmer. Don’t forget to season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and ground nutmeg if you choose to use it. As it bubbles away, your sauce will thicken beautifully.

Final Touches

Once the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the heavy cream. This is when you can taste it and adjust the seasonings to your liking — maybe a touch more salt or pepper. You want it to be just right.

Assembling the Dish

Layer the Potatoes and Sauce

Spread about 1/3 cup of the cream sauce into the bottom of a greased casserole dish (a 9×13 pan works perfectly). Layer half of the sliced potatoes on top, ensuring they’re spread apart for even cooking. Don’t forget to season this layer with salt and pepper for that extra kick!

Add More Flavor

Pour half of the remaining cream sauce over the potatoes, followed by half of the grated cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers, starting again with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and finally, the last sprinkle of cheese. This is where the magic happens, and those cheesy layers will transform during baking.

Baking the Scalloped Potatoes

Bake in the Oven

Now, it’s time to bake! Place your casserole dish in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 1 hour. Keep an eye on it; check around 30-40 minutes in. If the top is getting too brown, simply cover the dish with foil for the remainder of the baking time.

Rest and Garnish

Once they’re golden and bubbly, let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers settle nicely. Just before serving, garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley for a vibrant finish.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these scalloped potatoes with a side salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal. They also work wonderfully alongside roasted meats or as a festive side dish for holidays. You can’t go wrong! Imagine how well they complement a juicy roast chicken or a hearty beef tenderloin.

Tips for Success

Ensure even slicing of potatoes for consistent cooking. This will help them bake evenly and enhance that perfect texture.
Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors. Maybe you want a sharper cheese like Gruyère or a creamy cheese like Monterey Jack.
Allowing the dish to rest enhances the flavors and makes serving easier, so don’t rush this step!

Variations

Herbed Scalloped Potatoes: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cream sauce for an aromatic twist. This simple addition brightens the dish.
Bacon-Lover’s Delight: Incorporate crumbled bacon between layers for added savoriness. Imagine the smoky flavor mingling with the creaminess!
Vegan Option: Substitute dairy with almond milk, coconut cream, and a plant-based cheese alternative for a yummy version that everyone can enjoy.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven until warmed through for the best texture.

Pairing Ideas

These scrumptious scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted chicken, or herb-crusted fish. For a full meal, complement with a chilled white wine. The creamy potatoes will be a hit alongside almost anything!

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, while Idaho potatoes are recommended for their starchiness and texture, Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes can also work just fine.

2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create the roux for the cream sauce, making it accessible for everyone.

3. Can I prepare scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

4. What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! Just whisk in a little extra milk until your sauce reaches the desired consistency.

5. Can these potatoes be frozen?
Yes, but for the best results, freeze before baking. Thaw completely, then bake according to the recipe instructions when you’re ready.

Scalloped potatoes are an embodiment of rich, comforting flavors that bring joy to any meal. With a creamy texture, cheesy topping, and delightful seasoning, they promise to become a favorite in your household. Feel free to experiment with variations, and remember that the true magic lies in sharing this cherished dish with loved ones. Enjoy every savory bite!

Scalloped Potatoes

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Scalloped Potatoes

Ingredients