Homemade Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Homemade Scalloped Potatoes are a comforting and rich side dish that brings a creamy, cheesy delight to any meal. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a velvety, flavorful sauce made with butter, cream, and cheese, creating a dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or even weeknight meals. The crispy golden top contrasts beautifully with the soft, tender layers underneath, making this dish a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re serving it alongside a roast, grilled meat, or a simple salad, homemade scalloped potatoes elevate any plate with their irresistible flavor and texture.

This dish is a classic that’s enjoyed by many, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. With the right ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious. The creamy sauce and tender potatoes bake together to create a comforting and indulgent dish that’s always a hit, no matter the occasion.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Scalloped Potatoes

• Creamy, Rich Flavor: The combination of butter, cream, and cheese creates a luscious, rich sauce that coats each potato slice perfectly.
• Comforting and Satisfying: Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, making them a favorite for cozy dinners and special occasions.
• Versatile: This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses, from roast meats to baked chicken or even vegetarian meals.
• Easy to Make: While the result may seem fancy, scalloped potatoes are surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring just a few basic ingredients and steps.
• Great for Make-Ahead: Scalloped potatoes can be prepared in advance and baked when needed, making them perfect for meal prep or holiday meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 280-300 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280-300 kcal
• Fat: 16-18g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 6-8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2-3g

Ingredients

For the Scalloped Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground thyme (optional)
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Topping:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)

Special Equipment

Making homemade scalloped potatoes doesn’t require much special equipment, but a few key items will make the process smoother:

1. Mandoline Slicer or Sharp Knife: To get uniform, thin slices of potato, using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife is crucial. This helps ensure the potatoes cook evenly.
2. Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is the ideal size for this recipe, providing enough space to layer the potatoes without overcrowding.
3. Medium Saucepan: A medium saucepan is used to cook the cream and milk mixture, creating the base for the rich sauce.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are important for this recipe, particularly when making the sauce and layering the potatoes.
5. Grater: A fine grater is needed for shredding the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Freshly grated cheese will melt better and have more flavor than pre-grated cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a small amount of butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the potatoes from sticking while baking.

2. Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. A mandoline slicer makes this process quick and ensures uniform slices. Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning while you prepare the other ingredients.

3. Cook the Onion and Garlic

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Make the Cream Sauce

After the onion and garlic are cooked, add the heavy cream and whole milk to the saucepan. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and thyme (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once it starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Layer the Potatoes

Remove the saucepan from the heat and set aside. Start layering the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the first layer of potatoes in an even, flat layer. Pour a portion of the cream sauce over the potatoes, making sure the sauce covers them evenly. Sprinkle about ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes.

Continue layering the potatoes, cream sauce, and cheese until all the potatoes are used up. Be sure to end with a layer of cheese on top for a nice, golden finish.

6. Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. This initial baking time allows the potatoes to soften and begin to cook through.

7. Uncover and Add Topping

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and check for doneness. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork. If they’re not quite done, cover the dish again and return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes. Once the potatoes are tender, sprinkle the top with the remaining shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses.

If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top along with the melted butter for an added crunch. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are crispy.

8. Let the Dish Rest and Serve

Once the scalloped potatoes are done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Scalloped Potatoes

• Slice the Potatoes Evenly: For uniform cooking, make sure the potato slices are as even as possible. A mandoline slicer is ideal for this, but if you’re using a knife, take your time to cut them thinly and evenly.
• Use a Starchy Potato: Russet potatoes are the best choice for scalloped potatoes because they are starchy and break down well in the sauce, resulting in a creamy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes or new potatoes, as they won’t yield the same result.
• Layer for Even Cooking: When layering the potatoes, try to arrange them in a slightly overlapping pattern. This ensures that each layer cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 5 minutes after removing them from the oven. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes the dish easier to slice and serve.
• Make It Ahead: Scalloped potatoes can be made ahead of time. Prepare the dish through step 6, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

Variations of Homemade Scalloped Potatoes

• Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the cream sauce for an extra burst of flavor. You can also mix in some roasted garlic for a deeper, sweeter taste.
• Bacon Scalloped Potatoes: For an extra indulgent twist, crisp up some bacon and crumble it into the cheese layers. Bacon’s smoky flavor complements the creaminess of the potatoes beautifully.
• Herb Scalloped Potatoes: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley into the cream sauce for a fragrant, herby note that elevates the flavor of the dish.
• Vegan Scalloped Potatoes: To make this dish vegan, use dairy-free butter, non-dairy milk (such as almond milk or coconut milk), and a plant-based cheese substitute. Nutritional yeast can also be added for a cheesy flavor.

Storage and Shelf Life

Homemade scalloped potatoes can be stored for later, making them great for leftovers or meal prep. To store, let the dish cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave.

For longer storage, you can freeze the leftovers. Wrap the scalloped potatoes tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen scalloped potatoes can last up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes until warmed through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Homemade Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes pair well with a wide variety of main dishes and other sides. Consider these options for a balanced and delicious meal:

• Roast Chicken: The creamy potatoes complement the savory flavors of roast chicken perfectly. Serve with a simple green vegetable like broccoli or asparagus to round out the meal.
• Grilled Steak: A hearty steak pairs wonderfully with the rich, cheesy scalloped potatoes. Add a side of sautéed spinach or a crisp salad for freshness.
• Green Beans Almondine: The bright flavor of green beans sautéed with almonds provides a perfect contrast to the creamy potatoes.
• Caesar Salad: A light, crisp Caesar salad makes a great complement to the rich, indulgent scalloped potatoes.

Print

Conclusion

Homemade Scalloped Potatoes are a true comfort food classic, offering a rich, creamy, and cheesy side dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a special holiday gathering or simply as a treat for your family, these scalloped potatoes are sure to impress. With their smooth, velvety sauce and tender, perfectly cooked potatoes, this dish is as comforting as it is delicious. The flexibility of the recipe

allows for variations and additions that suit your personal taste, ensuring it can be enjoyed by everyone. Serve with your favorite main dishes, and enjoy the rich, indulgent flavors of homemade scalloped potatoes.