Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that never fails to impress, let me introduce you to my Creamy Scalloped Potatoes. This recipe has become a family favorite over the years, and it’s easy to see why! With its rich, cheesy sauce and those gorgeous crispy edges, these potatoes are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering, they bring warmth and joy to the table.

What makes these creamy scalloped potatoes even more special is how simple they are to prepare. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again, as it delights both kids and adults alike. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that allows you to enjoy the cozy flavors of home cooking?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together quickly with just a few simple steps. Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll feel like a pro!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Creamy scalloped potatoes are loved by everyone! They’re the kind of dish that brings smiles all around the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these potatoes in advance and simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Perfect for busy nights!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy sauce, garlic, and fresh thyme creates an irresistible flavor that you’ll want to savor.
• Versatile Side Dish: These scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with just about any main course, making them a great addition to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple and wholesome items that you likely have on hand or can easily grab from your local store.

For the Potatoes

• 5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute whole milk or half and half)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with it based on your personal taste or what you have in your pantry.

• Add Veggies: Toss in some thinly sliced onions or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
• Cheesy Twist: Try mixing in different cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère for a unique twist on flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a different aromatic experience.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy some heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes for an exciting flavor boost.

How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized ceramic baking dish so that the potatoes don’t stick during baking. This is crucial for achieving that delicious crispy texture!

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandolin or sharp knife, slice your Yukon gold potatoes as thinly as possible—about 1/16th of an inch thick. Thin slices ensure that every piece cooks evenly and absorbs all that creamy goodness.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter with minced garlic until it’s aromatic. This step adds such wonderful flavor! Stir in the flour to create a roux; let it cook for 1-2 minutes before gradually stirring in the heavy cream until thickened—about five minutes will do.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once your sauce is smooth, stir in Parmesan cheese (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. Removing it from heat allows it to cool slightly before adding it to the potatoes.

Step 5: Coat the Potatoes

In a large bowl, add your sliced potatoes and pour the creamy sauce over them. Gently toss until every slice is coated. This step ensures each potato gets drenched in that rich flavor!

Step 6: Arrange in Baking Dish

Now comes the fun part! Stack those potato slices upright in your greased baking dish. Pour any leftover sauce over top and sprinkle extra Parmesan if you’d like—because who doesn’t love more cheese?

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes. This helps steam the potatoes so they cook through perfectly.

Step 8: Bake Uncovered

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 30 minutes or until golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows flavors to settle—trust me; it’s worth it!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Creamy Scalloped Potatoes! They are sure to become a cherished recipe in your home just like they are in mine. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Making creamy scalloped potatoes is a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes: Their creamy texture and buttery flavor make them the ideal choice for scalloped potatoes. They hold up well during baking and create a luscious mouthfeel.

• Slice thinly and evenly: Using a mandolin ensures that all potato slices are uniform in thickness. This allows them to cook evenly and become perfectly tender without any undercooked pieces.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the dish to cool for about 10 minutes after baking helps the sauce thicken slightly, making it easier to serve without falling apart.

• Experiment with cheeses: While Parmesan adds a lovely flavor, mixing in other cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar can give your scalloped potatoes an extra layer of richness and complexity.

• Add freshness with herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like rosemary or chives can brighten up the dish. They add a pop of color and enhance the overall flavor profile.

How to Serve Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Creamy scalloped potatoes are not just a delicious side; they can also be presented beautifully for any occasion. Here are some ideas to make your dish stand out at the dinner table!

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme on top add an aromatic touch that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Grated cheese: A sprinkle of additional cheese right before serving can create an enticing look, as it melts slightly over the warm potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The crispy texture and slightly bitter flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts provide a perfect contrast to the creaminess of scalloped potatoes. Simply toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until caramelized.

• Honey-glazed carrots: Their sweetness balances the savory richness of the scalloped potatoes. Sauté sliced carrots in butter and a touch of honey until tender for a colorful addition to your plate.

• Green salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites of creamy goodness.

• Grilled asparagus: The slight char from grilling adds depth of flavor while providing a crisp texture that pairs wonderfully with soft scalloped potatoes. Drizzle with lemon juice for extra brightness!

Enjoy crafting this delightful side dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These creamy scalloped potatoes are not only a delicious side dish but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance, making your holiday cooking a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the scalloped potatoes completely before freezing.
• Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label and freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the baking dish with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• For frozen scalloped potatoes, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or bake directly from frozen, increasing heating time by about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making creamy scalloped potatoes!

Can I make creamy scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just bake it right before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

How do I store creamy scalloped potatoes?

To store creamy scalloped potatoes, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They also freeze well!

What makes creamy scalloped potatoes different from gratin?

The main difference is that scalloped potatoes typically use cream as the base sauce without cheese layers between slices, while gratin includes cheese and often breadcrumbs on top.

Can I use other types of cheese in creamy scalloped potatoes?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère or cheddar. Just keep in mind that each cheese will impart its own unique flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these creamy scalloped potatoes as much as I do! They bring warmth and comfort to any meal and are sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—it’s a delightful addition to any table. Happy cooking!