Scalloped potatoes are a classic, beloved side dish that can transform any meal into something special. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a holiday feast, or a gathering with friends, this creamy, cheesy dish never fails to impress. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of making the best scalloped potatoes recipe, providing you with tips and variations to make it your own.
What Are Scalloped Potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes are thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce, often enriched with cheese, garlic, and herbs. Unlike potatoes au gratin, which also includes cheese, scalloped potatoes traditionally have a cream-based sauce without cheese. However, as many modern recipes show, the addition of cheese has become a popular variation, offering extra richness and flavor.
Ingredients for Scalloped Potatoes
To create a dish that’s perfectly balanced in flavor and texture, you’ll need the following key ingredients:
- Potatoes: The star ingredient! For a creamy texture and buttery flavor, Yukon Gold potatoes are often the best choice. They hold up well during baking and have a natural sweetness. However, russet potatoes can also work if you prefer a fluffier texture.
- Butter & Flour: These two ingredients come together to create a roux, the base for your creamy sauce.
- Milk & Broth: The combination of whole milk and vegetable broth gives the sauce a lighter texture, which prevents it from feeling too heavy.
- Garlic & Onion: These aromatic ingredients bring depth to the dish.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbal note to the sauce, though dried thyme can be used in a pinch.
- Cheddar Cheese: A sharp, nutty cheddar adds richness and flavor to the sauce, and a bit on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
- Salt & Pepper: To enhance the flavors and balance the creaminess.
breakdown of the key ingredients:
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: Their creamy texture and slight sweetness make them ideal.
- Butter & Flour: Used to make a roux, which thickens the sauce.
- Milk & Broth: The mix of these ingredients prevents the sauce from being overly rich while keeping it creamy.
- Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh thyme, garlic, and onions add layers of flavor that elevate the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Scalloped Potatoes
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to the fun part—actually making the scalloped potatoes. Follow these simple steps to create a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that everyone will love.
1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent the potatoes from sticking. You can also use a non-stick spray if you prefer.
2. Slice the Potatoes
Thinly slice your potatoes to about 1/8-inch thick. A mandoline slicer is perfect for this, but a sharp knife works just fine too. Consistent slices ensure that the potatoes cook evenly, so be sure to keep them as uniform as possible.
3. Prepare the Sauce
To make the creamy sauce, melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about one minute. This step is crucial as it forms a roux that will thicken the sauce.
Slowly add in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of vegetable broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. After the liquid is added, throw in 4 grated garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, 2 teaspoons of sea salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Make sure to stir often to prevent it from burning.
4. Layer the Potatoes and Sauce
Once your sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the scalloped potatoes. Start by laying half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Next, top the potatoes with half of the thinly sliced onion. Then, pour half of the creamy sauce over the potatoes and onion. Sprinkle 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese on top.
Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, onions, sauce, and the last 1/2 cup of cheese. The cheese will melt and create a golden, bubbly crust during baking.
5. Bake the Dish
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 35 to 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Let the dish rest at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
How to Make Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food that adds creamy, cheesy goodness to any meal. This dish is simple yet flavorful, with tender potatoes layered in a rich, creamy sauce. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it with a weeknight dinner, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 4 garlic cloves (grated)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (chopped)
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (sliced ⅛-inch thick)
- ½ medium yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- 1½ cups grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent the potatoes from sticking.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- In a medium skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and whisk it for about 1 minute to form a roux (a thickening mixture).
- Slowly add 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of vegetable broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add 4 grated garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, 2 teaspoons of sea salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until the sauce lightly coats the back of a spoon. Reduce the heat as needed to avoid boiling.
Slice the Potatoes:
- Slice the 3 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes into ⅛-inch thick slices. A mandoline slicer can help you get uniform slices, but a sharp knife works just fine too. Make sure the slices are even so they cook at the same rate.
Assemble the Layers:
- In your prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
- Top with half of the thinly sliced onions and then pour half of the creamy sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese on top of the sauce.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, sauce, and the remaining ½ cup of cheese.
Bake the Scalloped Potatoes:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 35-40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Let it Set:
- Once done, remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them sit for about 20 minutes at room temperature. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to slice.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the scalloped potatoes into squares and serve as a delicious side dish for your holiday meals or any time you want a comforting, creamy treat.
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Scalloped Potatoes
To make sure your scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips and ideas to customize the recipe to suit your taste.
Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes
• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: While russet potatoes are common for baked dishes, Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choice for scalloped potatoes. Their creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor give the dish a richer, more indulgent taste.
• Slice Evenly: Consistency in the thickness of your potato slices is key to ensuring even cooking. A mandoline slicer or a sharp knife will help you achieve this, ensuring that all the slices cook at the same rate.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the potatoes to rest for 15 to 20 minutes after baking helps the sauce thicken, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall texture of the dish.
• Check for Tenderness: Before removing the casserole from the oven, make sure the potatoes are completely tender. You can test this by inserting a fork into the dish. If it slides in easily, your scalloped potatoes are ready!
Add-Ins and Variations
Scalloped potatoes are versatile, and there are many ways to modify the recipe to fit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:
• Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice, you can experiment with other types of cheese. Gruyère or Parmesan can add a nutty, sharp flavor to the dish. Mixing different cheeses also creates a more complex, layered taste.
• Add Bacon or Ham: If you’re looking to make the dish heartier, consider adding cooked bacon or ham. This adds a smoky flavor and makes the scalloped potatoes a complete meal on their own.
• Vegetarian Options: For a vegetarian version, substitute the vegetable broth with a mushroom or vegetable stock. You can also add layers of sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a bit of extra flavor and texture.
• Spice It Up: To give your scalloped potatoes a bit of a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. These spices will complement the creamy sauce and enhance the flavor profile.
Make-Ahead Instructions
If you’re preparing this dish for a holiday or large gathering, you can easily make it ahead of time. Here’s how:
Assemble the Dish: Fully prepare the scalloped potatoes, but don’t bake them. Cover the assembled dish with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Bake When Ready: When it’s time to serve, remove the dish from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then bake the dish covered for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 30 to 40 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is often the case with such a delicious dish), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leftover scalloped potatoes will last for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or microwave them for a quicker option.
What to Serve with Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are rich and indulgent, making them the perfect side dish for a variety of meals. Here are some great ideas for what to pair them with:
• Roast Meat: Serve scalloped potatoes alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or beef for a hearty and satisfying meal. The creamy potatoes complement the savory flavors of roasted meats beautifully.
• Holiday Feasts: Scalloped potatoes are a classic choice for holiday meals, particularly at Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Pair them with a roasted ham or glazed turkey for a festive spread.
• Salads: Balance the richness of the potatoes with a refreshing salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a tangy fennel salad works perfectly.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or carrots can add some lightness to the meal while providing a fresh contrast to the creamy potatoes.
Scalloped Potatoes: A Comforting Classic
Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, scalloped potatoes are a timeless dish that everyone will enjoy. With their creamy, cheesy layers and tender texture, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. By following these steps and tips, you can ensure that your scalloped potatoes are the best they can be, every time. So grab those Yukon Gold potatoes and get ready to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Scalloped Potatoes vs. Au Gratin: What’s the Difference?
You might be wondering, what’s the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes? Technically, the difference comes down to cheese. Traditional scalloped potatoes are made without cheese, relying solely on the creamy sauce for richness. However, many recipes (including this one) add cheese for extra flavor and texture.
So, while some people might refer to this as potatoes au gratin, we prefer to call them cheesy scalloped potatoes. Call it what you will, but either way, this dish is a showstopper!
FAQs On Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
What is the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes?
The primary difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes lies in the cheese content:
Scalloped potatoes are typically made with just a creamy sauce (butter, milk, and flour) and may not include cheese, though some variations do.
Au gratin potatoes always include cheese (usually grated cheese like cheddar or Gruyère) in the sauce, and they are often topped with breadcrumbs, which results in a crispy, cheesy crust.
While both dishes are made with thinly sliced potatoes, au gratin potatoes are richer in flavor due to the cheese and crispy topping.
Should you boil potatoes first for scalloped potatoes?
No, you do not need to boil potatoes before making scalloped potatoes. The potatoes are sliced thinly and layered raw in the casserole dish. They cook during the baking process as the sauce thickens and envelops them. This ensures the potatoes absorb the flavors from the sauce while baking, leading to a tender and flavorful dish.
However, make sure to slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
What is the best sauce for scalloped potatoes?
The best sauce for scalloped potatoes is a creamy béchamel sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and broth. This sauce creates the perfect consistency for the potatoes to bake in, providing both richness and flavor.
- Butter and flour are used to create a roux, which thickens the sauce.
- Whole milk provides a creamy base, while vegetable broth or chicken broth adds depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Seasonings like garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper enhance the sauce and make it a perfect complement to the potatoes.
Can you make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make scalloped potatoes ahead of time. This is actually a great option if you’re preparing for a holiday meal or a gathering. Here’s how to do it:
- Assemble the scalloped potatoes and fully bake them according to the recipe.
- Cool the dish to room temperature.
- Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
When you’re ready to serve, allow the dish to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes while you preheat the oven to 350°F. Then, bake it, covered, for about 30 minutes, or until heated through. This will save you time on the day of your meal and still produce delicious, tender potatoes.
Can I use other types of cheese in scalloped potatoes?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is the most common choice for scalloped potatoes, you can experiment with different cheeses based on your preferences. Here are a few alternatives:
- Gruyère: This cheese adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and melts beautifully, giving the dish a rich, creamy texture.
- Parmesan: If you want a sharper, saltier flavor, a sprinkle of Parmesan on top can add a nice crisp and golden finish.
- Fontina: This cheese has a creamy, mild flavor and melts well, making it another great option.
- Mozzarella: If you prefer a gooey, stretchy texture, mozzarella can be used for a milder taste.
You can even combine cheeses for a unique flavor profile, such as mixing cheddar with Gruyère or Parmesan with mozzarella.
Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 4 garlic cloves, grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced ⅛-inch thick
- ½ medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1½ cups grated cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
Make the sauce: In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk it for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly add the milk and vegetable broth while continuously whisking. Add grated garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and lightly coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat.
Layer the potatoes: Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the sliced onions, then pour half of the sauce over the potatoes. Add 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese on top.
Repeat the layers: Add the remaining half of the sliced potatoes, onions, sauce, and then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Bake the dish: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, uncover the dish and continue baking for an additional 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
Rest and serve: Let the scalloped potatoes stand at room temperature for about 20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes:
- You can make this dish ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole, bake it, and refrigerate it after cooling to room temperature. When ready to serve, reheat at 350°F for about 30 minutes.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère or Parmesan, for a unique flavor.
- Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, but other types of potatoes like russet can also be used.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 590mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 6g
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
