Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that brings smiles to the dinner table, you’ve found it! These Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With their rich, cheesy sauce and crispy edges, they make any meal feel special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

What makes these creamy scalloped potatoes truly special is how they bring everyone together. Imagine the warm aroma wafting through your home as they bake, inviting loved ones to gather around the table. You’ll find that they pair perfectly with almost anything, from roasted meats to fresh salads.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: You can whip this up quickly, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! It’s a dish that pleases both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance and just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, thyme, and cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. They come together beautifully to create a creamy sauce that envelops tender potatoes.

For the Potatoes

• 5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream (substitute whole milk or half and half)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some veggies: Toss in thinly sliced onions or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try adding Gruyère or sharp cheddar for a different cheesy twist.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat that elevates the flavor profile.
• Herb it up: Mix in fresh rosemary or chives along with the thyme for an aromatic boost.

How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating the oven to 400°F. This step is key because we want those potatoes to bake evenly and develop that lovely golden brown color. Lightly grease a medium-sized ceramic baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandolin or sharp knife, slice your Yukon gold potatoes as thinly as possible—about 1/16th of an inch. The thinner the slices, the creamier and more tender your final dish will be. Plus, it helps them cook evenly!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter with minced garlic until fragrant. This step releases all those wonderful flavors into your sauce. Then stir in the flour to create a roux; this thickens your sauce and gives it that luscious texture we crave.

Step 4: Add Cream and Seasonings

Slowly stir in the heavy cream until everything thickens up nicely—this should take about 5 minutes. Once it’s smooth and creamy, add in Parmesan cheese (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. This combination enhances every bite!

Step 5: Combine Potatoes with Sauce

Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly. In a large bowl, toss those beautifully sliced potatoes with your creamy sauce until they’re well-coated. This ensures every slice gets its fair share of flavor.

Step 6: Arrange in Baking Dish

Stack those saucy potato slices upright in your greased baking dish. Pour any leftover sauce on top because we want every inch covered! If you’re feeling extra cheesy, sprinkle some additional Parmesan on top.

Step 7: Bake Perfectly

Tent your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil so those edges can crisp up nicely as they bake uncovered for another 30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done baking, let your creamy scalloped potatoes cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This waiting time allows them to set just right so every scoop holds together beautifully!

And there you have it—creamy scalloped potatoes that are sure to become a favorite at your table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Creating the perfect creamy scalloped potatoes is easier than you might think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes – These potatoes have a creamy texture and buttery flavor that make them ideal for scalloping, ensuring a rich and satisfying dish.
• Slice evenly – Aim for uniform slices (about 1/16th of an inch) to ensure even cooking. A mandolin can be your best friend here, helping to achieve that delicate thickness.
• Don’t rush the roux – Taking the time to cook your flour with the butter and garlic helps to eliminate any raw flour taste and creates a smooth, velvety sauce that beautifully coats your potatoes.
• Layer it right – When stacking the potato slices, alternate directions slightly to create air pockets, which will help in even cooking and crisping up those edges.
• Let it rest – Allowing the dish to cool for about 10 minutes before serving will help it set slightly, making it easier to serve while still keeping that gooey creaminess intact.

How to Serve Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

These creamy scalloped potatoes are not just delicious; they also look stunning on the table! Presenting this dish with style will elevate your meal experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme leaves – A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds a pop of color and enhances the herbaceous notes in the dish.
• Chopped parsley – Bright green parsley provides a refreshing contrast against the creamy sauce and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts – The slightly bitter flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts balances well with the richness of the scalloped potatoes, creating a harmonious plate.
• Grilled asparagus – Tender asparagus spears bring a fresh crunch that complements the creaminess of your potatoes while adding vibrant color.
• Herb-seasoned quinoa salad – This light salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the heavy potatoes and adds healthy grains to your meal.
• Mixed greens salad with vinaigrette – A simple mixed greens salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette cleanses the palate and rounds out your meal beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to enjoy an unforgettable side dish that will impress friends and family alike! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These creamy scalloped potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance to save time on busy days or for festive gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion the scalloped potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• For a quicker option, microwave individual portions on high until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about creamy scalloped potatoes that might help you out!

Can I make creamy scalloped potatoes without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half and half for a lighter version while still achieving that creamy texture.

How do I ensure my creamy scalloped potatoes are perfectly cooked?

To ensure your creamy scalloped potatoes are cooked through, slice the potatoes thinly (about 1/16th of an inch) and bake them covered initially. Removing the foil allows them to brown beautifully.

What can I serve with creamy scalloped potatoes?

Creamy scalloped potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. They make an excellent side dish for any occasion!

Can I add other ingredients to my creamy scalloped potatoes?

Certainly! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or even add other cheeses for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these creamy scalloped potatoes! They truly are a comforting side dish that brings warmth to any table. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy creating delicious memories and don’t hesitate to share your experience!