Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
These homemade Scalloped Potatoes Recipe are a delightful blend of creamy cheese and tender potatoes, making them the perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The rich flavors and simple preparation make it an instant favorite that will have everyone coming back for seconds — or even thirds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can create a comforting dish that anyone can master.
- Irresistibly Creamy: The combination of cheese and creamy sauce elevates the humble potato to new heights.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with meats, serve it at potlucks, or enjoy it as a main course with a salad.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults will love the cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and bake when ready to serve for hassle-free entertaining.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making your scalloped potatoes, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything on hand will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick spray
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mandolin slicer
- Large saucepan
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick spray: Prevents the potatoes from sticking to the baking pan, ensuring easy serving.
- Mandolin slicer: Allows for uniform slicing of potatoes, which helps them cook evenly.
- Large saucepan: Essential for making the creamy cheese sauce that ties this dish together.
Ingredients
These homemade cheesy scalloped potatoes are so simple and delicious — you will be coming back for seconds and thirds.
Ingredients:
– 8 cups potatoes, (about 3 pounds peeled and sliced really thin)
– 4 tablespoons butter
– ½ cup onion, (diced)
– 1 teaspoon garlic, (minced)
– 6 tablespoons flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 cups milk
– ½ teaspoon thyme
– salt and pepper, (to taste)
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, (grated)
– ½ tablespoon fresh thyme
– fresh thyme (for garnish)
How to Make Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Step 2: Slice the Potatoes
- Wash, dry, and peel the potatoes.
- Using a mandolin, slice the potatoes very thin (about ⅛-inch thick).
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until soft.
- Stir in flour and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low; slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking continuously.
- Add milk gradually while whisking until mixture thickens; season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Combine Cheese with Sauce
- Remove from heat; stir in thyme and grated cheddar cheese until melted.
Step 5: Layer Potatoes
- Place half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of your prepared pan; season with salt and pepper.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over this layer of potatoes.
Step 6: Add Second Layer
- Add another layer of sliced potatoes; season again with salt and pepper.
- Pour remaining sauce over top; sprinkle with fresh thyme.
Step 7: Bake
- Cover with foil; bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil; bake an additional 30 minutes until golden brown.
Step 8: Serve
- Remove from oven; garnish with fresh thyme.
- Let sit for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving for best results.
Enjoy these delicious scalloped potatoes as they bring warmth and comfort to your table!
How to Serve Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Scalloped potatoes are a comforting dish that pairs well with many meals. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a weeknight dinner, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Protein
- Roast Chicken: This classic pairing allows the creamy potatoes to complement the savory flavors of the chicken.
- Grilled Steak: The richness of scalloped potatoes balances beautifully with the bold taste of grilled steak.
- Baked Salmon: A light and flaky fish like salmon provides a nice contrast to the hearty potatoes.
Add Fresh Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: The crunch and color of fresh broccoli add nutrients and visual appeal to your plate.
- Garden Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette can refresh your meal and provide a crisp texture.
- Roasted Asparagus: This elegant side brings out the earthy flavors in scalloped potatoes.
Garnishing Ideas
- Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness.
- Extra Cheese: For cheese lovers, adding a bit more grated cheese on top before serving can make it even more indulgent.
How to Perfect Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
To make sure your scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Starchy Potatoes: Choosing starchy varieties like Russets will give you creamier results compared to waxy potatoes.
- Slice Thinly: Use a mandolin to achieve uniform ⅛-inch slices for even cooking throughout.
- Layer Evenly: Ensure each layer of potatoes is seasoned equally for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking; this helps it set up nicely for serving.
Best Side Dishes for Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Scalloped potatoes shine as a side dish, but they also pair well with other sides. Here are some great options.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots balance the richness of scalloped potatoes beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: This classic favorite adds a crispy texture and delicious flavor that complements any meal.
- Creamed Spinach: The creaminess mirrors the scalloped potatoes, creating a rich experience on your plate.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the potatoes.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is always a hit at family gatherings.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad can lighten up your meal while adding nutrients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your scalloped potatoes recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Incorrect Potato Thickness: Slicing the potatoes too thick can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for ⅛-inch thickness for even texture.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Forgetting to season between layers can result in bland potatoes. Always add salt and pepper at each layer for enhanced flavor.
- Not Using Enough Cheese: Underestimating cheese can leave your dish lacking in richness. Be generous with the cheese for that creamy goodness.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Packing too many potatoes into the pan can cause uneven baking. Layer them properly to ensure they cook evenly.
- Not Allowing to Rest: Cutting into the dish immediately after baking may cause it to fall apart. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes for better presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a scalloped potatoes recipe:
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for unique flavors.
How do I make my scalloped potatoes recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
What type of potato is best for scalloped potatoes?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their starchy nature, which gives the dish a creamy texture.
How can I make this scalloped potatoes recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare everything up to baking and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready!
Final Thoughts
This scalloped potatoes recipe is not just simple; it’s also versatile and perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables. You’ll love how comforting and satisfying this dish is—ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this homemade scalloped potatoes recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious, these scalloped potatoes elevate any meal, making them a must-have side dish for family dinners or festive gatherings. With tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, this dish is simple to prepare and promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether served alongside roast chicken, grilled steak, or as part of a holiday feast, scalloped potatoes are sure to have everyone reaching for seconds. The best part? You can make them ahead of time for hassle-free entertaining!
Ingredients
- 8 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 3 pounds)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick spray.
- Slice potatoes thinly using a mandolin.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat and sauté onions and garlic until soft. Stir in flour and cook for another two minutes.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until thickened; season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Layer half of the potatoes in the prepared pan; season and pour half of the sauce on top. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes; uncover and bake an additional 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let sit for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
