There’s something magical about a dish that’s simple, timeless, and universally loved. These Best Scalloped Potatoes have been a favorite in my home for as long as I can remember. Creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection, they’re a comfort food classic that’s as perfect for a cozy family dinner as it is for a festive holiday feast. 🥔🧀
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking for an easy recipe to impress, this dish will win you over. I promise! Keep reading for the step-by-step guide to creating scalloped potato perfection. (And don’t forget to subscribe for more irresistible recipes sent straight to your inbox !)
Why You’ll Love These Scalloped Potatoes
- Velvety Cheese Sauce: A luscious, homemade cheddar cheese sauce coats every slice for unmatched creaminess.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of these pantry staples in your kitchen.
- Versatile Side Dish: These potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled veggies, or even a crisp salad.
- A Family Favorite: Guaranteed to have everyone coming back for seconds !
What Do They Taste Like?
These scalloped potatoes are the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness. The tender potato slices soak up the flavorful sauce while the golden-brown, cheesy topping adds the ideal crunch. A hint of cayenne pepper gives the dish a subtle warmth that takes it to the next level.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Customizable: You can easily add your own twist with extra herbs, garlic, or even bacon bits.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable, everyday ingredients.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a group or making ahead for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this dreamy dish:
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best!)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk (whole milk for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 dash cayenne pepper
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated cheese (for sprinkling on top)
- Paprika (optional, for color)
Tools You’ll Need
- Sharp knife or mandoline for slicing potatoes
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Lightly greased one-quart casserole dish
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and let it cook for a minute.
- Gradually add the cold milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Season with salt and a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Cook on low heat until the sauce is smooth and begins to boil, then reduce the heat.
- Stir in 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese until melted and velvety.
2. Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the casserole dish.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining ½ cup of cheese and a dusting of paprika for a pop of color.
3. Bake to Perfection
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the potatoes are tender and the top is bubbly and golden brown.
What to Serve with Scalloped Potatoes
These scalloped potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with:
- Roast chicken, turkey, or ham for a hearty meal.
- Grilled or roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans.
- A fresh side salad to balance the richness.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a Mandoline for Even Slices: Thin, uniform potato slices cook evenly and create that classic layered look.
- Go Bold with Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds the best flavor, but you can experiment with Gruyère or Parmesan for a gourmet touch.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Take your time to whisk and cook the sauce until it’s silky smooth—this makes all the difference.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a fork to ensure the potatoes are tender before removing from the oven.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the baked dish (once cooled) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick fix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses work wonderfully.
Can I add other ingredients?
Yes! Bacon bits, caramelized onions, or fresh herbs like thyme can elevate this dish even further.
What potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and ability to hold up during baking.
Healthier Variations
If you’re looking to lighten up the recipe, try these swaps:
- Milk Alternatives: Use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter sauce.
- Cheese Options: Opt for reduced-fat cheese or a smaller amount of Parmesan for flavor with fewer calories.
- Potato Variety: Substitute part of the potatoes with sweet potatoes for added nutrients and a hint of sweetness.
Wrap-Up
These scalloped potatoes truly are the best of the best. With their creamy layers, golden topping, and rich, cheesy flavor, they’re a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday celebration, this dish delivers comfort and joy in every bite.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear from you! Leave a review below, snap a photo, and share it on Pinterest. Let’s spread the love of scalloped potatoes together! 💛
Seasoning Ideas for Extra Flavor
Enhance the recipe with a variety of seasonings and herbs:
- Garlic Powder or Fresh Garlic: Add to the cheese sauce for a more robust flavor.
- Fresh Thyme or Rosemary: Sprinkle between potato layers or on top for a fragrant finish.
- Cracked Black Pepper: Adds a subtle kick that complements the creaminess.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Planning for a big event? These scalloped potatoes can be prepped in advance!
- Assemble the dish as instructed but stop before baking.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding an extra 10–15 minutes to ensure it’s hot and bubbly.
Perfect for Special Occasions
This recipe is a staple for holidays like:
- Thanksgiving Dinner: A crowd-favorite alongside turkey and stuffing.
- Christmas Celebrations: Elegant enough to complement a roast beef or ham.
- Easter Brunch: A delightful addition to a springtime table spread.
Garnish Suggestions
Finish your dish with a flourish to impress your guests:
- Chopped Parsley or Chives: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Crispy Bacon Bits: Sprinkle on top for an indulgent crunch.
- Panko Bread Crumbs: For a crispy, golden topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle before baking.
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 18g
Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe 🥔🧀
Equipment
- Sharp knife or mandoline (for slicing potatoes)
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Lightly greased one-quart casserole dish
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes Yukon Gold or Russet recommended
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk whole milk for best results
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 dash cayenne pepper
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated cheese for topping
- Paprika optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and let it cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add the salt and a dash of cayenne pepper, whisking continuously.
- Cook on low heat until the sauce is smooth and begins to boil. Reduce heat and stir in 1 cup of grated cheese until melted and creamy.
- Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the greased casserole dish.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle the ½ cup grated cheese on top and lightly dust with paprika for added color.
- Bake the Potatoes
- Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Cheese Variety: Experiment with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
Add-Ins: Layer in caramelized onions, bacon bits, or fresh herbs for a creative twist.
