Scalloped Potatoes

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for creamier texture)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or Swiss work beautifully)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional, adds depth)
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

1. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly — about ⅛-inch thick.
2. For even slices, you can use a mandoline slicer, but a sharp knife works fine.
3. Place sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux (this thickens the sauce).
5. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring there are no lumps.
6. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of cheese, saving the rest for the topping.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
3. Arrange a single layer of potato slices on the bottom.
4. Pour some sauce over the potatoes, spreading evenly.
5. Repeat layering potatoes and sauce until the dish is full, ending with sauce on top.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese evenly over the top.
2. Optionally, add a few thyme sprigs or extra black pepper for flavor and presentation.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

1. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 25–30 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
3. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving — this allows the layers to set.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

• Potato Choice: Russets give a softer, creamier result; Yukon Golds hold their shape better.
• Cheese Variety: Mix cheeses for deeper flavor (e.g., cheddar + Gruyère).
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare and assemble the dish a day in advance; just bake before serving.
• Extra Flavor Boost: Add crispy bacon, ham, or caramelized onions between layers.

Serving Suggestions

Scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with:

• Roasted chicken or turkey
• Grilled steak or pork chops
• A fresh green salad for balance

Final Thoughts

Scalloped Potatoes are more than just a side dish — they’re a comforting, crowd-pleasing classic that can turn any meal into something special. With their creamy texture, rich flavor, and golden topping, they’re guaranteed to disappear quickly from the table.

Whether for a festive holiday spread or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.

Would you like me to also write a “Shortcut Version” (30-minute scalloped potatoes using an air fryer or stovetop hack), so you can make it faster on busy days?