Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

If you are searching for a comforting and irresistible dish that brings rich flavors and a luscious texture to your table, look no further than Creamy Scalloped Potatoes. This timeless casserole combines tender slices of Yukon gold potatoes with a velvety garlic-infused cream sauce, enhanced by subtle notes of thyme and Parmesan cheese. Each bite melts in your mouth, making it an ideal side that will quickly become your go-to whenever you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself to classic comfort food at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Scalloped Potatoes lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Every component plays its part to create the perfect balance between creamy richness, delicate herbaceous hints, and the natural buttery flavor of the potatoes.

• 5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes: These creamy, buttery potatoes hold their shape beautifully while absorbing the sauce perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create the roux for the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced or pressed): Infuses the dish with a gentle aromatic kick without overpowering the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the creamy sauce to just the right consistency.
• 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk/half and half): The heart of that luscious, dreamy texture that makes scalloped potatoes irresistible.
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a savory depth and a subtle nutty tang.
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme: Brings a gentle earthiness that complements the richness perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness from the potatoes.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a hint of warmth and complexity.

How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a medium-sized ceramic baking dish to keep those tender potato slices from sticking and to ensure an even bake that develops a gorgeous golden crust.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes Thinly

The secret to creamy, soft scalloped potatoes is slicing the potatoes super thin—aim for about 1/16th of an inch. Using a mandolin makes this process quick, safe, and ensures uniform slices that bake evenly.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Roux

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced or pressed garlic. Cook just until fragrant—this step releases incredible aroma that will infuse every bite of the dish. Then stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking it for 1 to 2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. This slow process builds that luxurious texture you want in every layer. Next, stir in Parmesan, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper to balance and deepen the sauce’s flavor profile.

Step 5: Combine Potatoes and Sauce

Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool just a bit. Place the potato slices in a large bowl, pour the luscious sauce over, and gently toss to coat every slice thoroughly without breaking them. This step is key for even flavor and creaminess throughout the dish.

Step 6: Layer the Potatoes in the Baking Dish

Arrange the coated potato slices upright, stacked tightly in the greased dish. Pour any leftover sauce over the top and, if you love an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle some more Parmesan on top. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to trap moisture during baking.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Tender

Bake covered at 400°F for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 30 minutes. This final uncovered bake allows the top to develop a gorgeous, golden brown crust while the inside becomes tender and perfectly cooked.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Once your Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are out of the oven, let them rest for about 10 minutes. This simple pause lets the sauce settle and thickens slightly, making it easier to serve and even more delicious to eat.

How to Serve Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley brightens up the rich creaminess beautifully, adding a pop of vibrant color and a fresh herbal note that awakens the palate.

Side Dishes

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork, as well as with simply sautéed green vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the scalloped potatoes in individual ramekins topped with crispy breadcrumbs and shredded cheese for mini gratins. For casual dinners, a casserole straight from the baking dish piled high on your plate is equally inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Creamy Scalloped Potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days and are perfect for a quick reheat or next-day meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Cool completely before freezing in a freezer-safe container. For best results, consume within 1 to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in an oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, though oven reheating preserves the creamy texture best.

FAQs

Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon gold?

While russet potatoes can work, Yukon golds are preferred due to their naturally creamy texture and buttery flavor, which enhance the dish’s richness.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream creates the richest sauce, but you can substitute whole milk or half and half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less thick and creamy.

Can I prepare Creamy Scalloped Potatoes in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a few hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate before baking. Just add extra baking time if baked straight from cold.

What herbs work best with this dish?

Fresh thyme is classic and enhances the flavor wonderfully, but rosemary or sage are also lovely alternatives if you want to experiment.

How thin should the potato slices be?

Slices should be about 1/16th of an inch thick to ensure even cooking and that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture that defines great scalloped potatoes.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Creamy Scalloped Potatoes recipe, you’ll discover why it’s a treasured classic that never goes out of style. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and guaranteed to become one of your favorite ways to enjoy potatoes. So grab those Yukon golds and let the magic happen in your kitchen—your next comfort food craving will be thoroughly answered!

Print