As I wandered through my favorite farmer’s market this morning, the air filled with the earthy scent of fresh produce, my eyes landed on a beautiful mound of Yukon gold potatoes. It hit me how perfect they would be in a recipe for Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes. This comforting dish seamlessly brings a taste of warmth and nostalgia to any meal, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering. With layers of creamy garlic sauce and a golden, cheesy crust, it’s the kind of side that promises to keep everyone coming back for more. Plus, you can make it ahead of time, freeing up your day for more cherished moments. Curious to learn how to create this mouthwatering side dish that delights at every occasion? Let’s dive in! Why Are Scalloped Potatoes So Irresistible? Comforting layers of creamy garlic sauce wrap tender Yukon gold potatoes, making each bite a warm embrace for your taste buds. Cheesy Parmesan topping creates a delightful crunch, while versatile substitutions allow you to tweak the recipe to your preference. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or prepping for a festive feast, these make-ahead scalloped potatoes save you time and effort. Pair them with options like Lemon Herb Potatoes or alongside Shrimp Mashed Potatoes for a well-rounded meal that everyone will adore! Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients • To create your creamy scalloped potatoes, gather these simple but essential ingredients. For the Potatoes Yukon Gold Potatoes – Provides tenderness and creaminess; feel free to substitute with russet potatoes for a fluffier texture. For the Sauce Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; you can swap for olive oil if you’re looking for a lighter option. Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; garlic powder can be used in a pinch but will slightly alter the flavor profile. All-Purpose Flour – Essential for building a roux to thicken the sauce; cornstarch or rice flour works for a gluten-free version. Heavy Cream (or Milk/Half & Half) – Creates a rich, creamy texture; consider using almond milk thickened with cornstarch for a dairy-free choice. For the Topping Parmesan Cheese – Imparts a nutty, salty flavor and forms a delicious crust; feel free to substitute with cheddar or Gruyère for extra flavor richness. Fresh Thyme – Adds an herbaceous note; use dried thyme in a smaller amount if fresh isn’t available. For Seasoning Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; regular salt can work in a pinch if it’s what you have. Black Pepper – Adds a subtle spice; optional to omit for a milder taste. With these simple ingredients at hand, you’re well on your way to crafting these delightful creamy scalloped potatoes that promise to be a hit at your next meal! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, take a ceramic baking dish and grease it lightly with butter or oil to ensure your creamy scalloped potatoes don’t stick. This will set the stage for an easy clean-up later and help achieve a golden crust. Step 2: Slice the Potatoes Peel the Yukon gold potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick, using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Aim for consistency in thickness to ensure even cooking. You’ll want the slices to be tender, allowing them to absorb the rich flavors of the garlic cream sauce beautifully when baked. Step 3: Sauté Garlic In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. This step infuses the butter with delicious garlic flavor, which will entice your senses and enrich the overall taste of your creamy scalloped potatoes. Step 4: Make the Roux Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the pot with the sautéed garlic, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This creates the base for your sauce, ensuring it thickens nicely when combined with the cream. You’ll notice a subtle change in color; this is a sign that your roux is ready for the next step. Step 5: Add the Cream Gradually whisk in 2 cups of heavy cream while continuing to stir, keeping the heat on medium. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. This creamy sauce becomes the heart of your scalloped potatoes, enriching every layer with garlic goodness. Step 6: Season the Sauce Once the cream mixture thickens, stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, and season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and the cheese melts completely, forming a luscious sauce. This rich, creamy base is essential for achieving the perfect flavor in your creamy scalloped potatoes. Step 7: Combine and Coat Fold in the sliced potatoes into the cheese and cream sauce, ensuring each slice is thoroughly coated. This careful mixing is important to ensure every potato layer absorbs the flavors of the creamy mixture. You should see that each slice glistens with the sauce, promising a uniform taste throughout the dish. Step 8: Layer in the Baking Dish Arrange the coated potato slices upright in the greased baking dish. Pour any remaining sauce over the top, ensuring the potatoes are well covered. Finally, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the entire dish for added flavor and that coveted golden crust when baked. Step 9: Bake Covered Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This initial baking time allows the potatoes to steam, becoming tender and absorbing the creamy sauce’s flavors without browning prematurely. Step 10: Bake Uncovered After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes. This allows the top to become golden and bubbly. You’ll know your creamy scalloped potatoes are ready when they are slightly crisp on top, with gooey cheese peeking out, inviting everyone to dig in. Step 11: Let Rest Once out of the oven, let your creamy scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period will help the sauce thicken and settle, making it easier to serve those perfect slices at the dinner table. Your comforting dish is now ready to be enjoyed, brimming with warmth and flavor! How to Store and Freeze Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in an oven-safe dish covered with foil to retain moisture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheating: To enjoy your creamy scalloped potatoes again, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Add extra cheese on top for a delightful crust! Make Ahead Options These Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it covered to maintain moisture. Simply prepare the cream sauce and layer the sliced potatoes as directed, then cover tightly with foil to prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, baking it covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered for another 30 minutes until golden and bubbly. This way, you can save valuable time on busy evenings while still serving up a comforting and delicious side dish that tastes just as delightful! What to Serve with Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that complement the creamy, cheesy goodness of this beloved side dish. Roast Chicken: The savory flavors of roast chicken beautifully contrast the richness of scalloped potatoes, creating a balanced plate. Grilled Asparagus: Fresh, tender asparagus adds a pop of color and a crisp texture, enhancing the overall meal experience. Honey Glazed Carrots: Their sweet notes provide a lovely contrast to the richness of the potatoes, creating a comforting harmony in flavors. For a heartier meal, consider pairing with Sautéed Spinach; the slight bitterness of the greens cuts through the creaminess, offering a refreshing balance. A splash of lemon juice can elevate this simple dish to new heights. Beef Tenderloin: A succulent beef tenderloin complements the creamy texture of scalloped potatoes beautifully, making for an upscale dinner option. To round off your meal, don’t forget a Slice of Chocolate Cake for dessert. The rich, velvety chocolate contrasts the savory elements, providing that perfect sweet ending everyone craves! Expert Tips for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Slice Uniformly: Ensure potato slices are of even thickness for consistent cooking. Aim for about 1/8 inch to avoid some being undercooked or mushy. Thicken the Sauce: Allow the cream sauce to thicken slightly before adding the potatoes. This prevents curdling during baking and ensures a rich texture. Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your creamy scalloped potatoes even better. Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses; Gruyère or cheddar can add unique flavors and enrich the creamy topping. Add Protein: Consider mixing in cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier dish. It’s a delightful twist on the classic creamy scalloped potatoes. Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Variations Customize your creamy scalloped potatoes with these fun and exciting tweaks that will elevate your comfort dish to a whole new level! Dairy-Free: Use almond milk thickened with cornstarch in place of heavy cream and choose vegan cheese for a deliciously creamy option. Sometimes, it’s great to accommodate dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comfort dish together. Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or rice flour to thicken your sauce without compromising texture. This variation allows gluten-sensitive friends to savor the rich flavors without worries. Cheese Swap: Try swapping the Parmesan for sharp cheddar or Gruyère for extra depth and a twist on flavors. Each cheese brings its character to the dish, incredibly enhancing that cheesy crust everyone loves. Aromatic Herbs: Replace fresh thyme with rosemary or oregano for a fragrant twist that brightens up the flavor profile. The addition of aromatic herbs can bring a whole new gourmet experience to your scalloped potatoes. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of red pepper flakes for a delightful heat that kicks things up a notch. This twist creates a savory contrast that those who enjoy a bit of spice will absolutely adore. Vegetable Boost: Incorporate sautéed spinach or roasted butternut squash between the layers for added nutrition and vibrant color. Not only does it increase the health factor, but it also makes for a stunning presentation at your dinner table. Layered Flavors: Add layers of sautéed mushrooms or cooked chicken to make these potatoes even heartier and more satisfying. This variation can transform your scalloped potatoes into a complete meal, pleasing both taste and heartiness seekers. Feel free to experiment with these ideas, and don’t forget to check out other delightful recipes like Elis Cheesecake Eli for dessert or a cozy side like Pineapple Pecan Cake to round out your meal! Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe FAQs What type of potatoes should I use for creamy scalloped potatoes? I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes as they provide the perfect tenderness and creaminess for this dish. If those aren’t available, russet potatoes can be used for a fluffier texture, though they might result in a different mouthfeel. How should I store leftover creamy scalloped potatoes? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest covering the dish with foil in the oven to help retain moisture and prevent the top from becoming too dry or crispy. Can I freeze creamy scalloped potatoes? Absolutely! To freeze, let them cool completely, then transfer portions to airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating; it’s an easy way to preserve your delicious leftovers! What can I do if my sauce is too thin? If you find your sauce is too thin after adding the cream, simply let it simmer on medium heat for a few more minutes until it thickens. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the pot, and it should transform into a velvety consistency. Are there any dietary considerations for creamy scalloped potatoes? Yes! If you need a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or rice flour to thicken the sauce. Additionally, for a dairy-free version, you can use almond milk thickened with cornstarch and vegan cheese. Always check for allergies, particularly with cheese and cream-based ingredients! Can I make creamy scalloped potatoes ahead of time? Certainly! You can prepare this dish up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble everything in the baking dish, then cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven without the need for additional prep work—perfect for busy days! Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Fix Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are a comforting dish featuring layers of garlic cream sauce and a cheesy crust. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Potatoes2 pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes Substitute with russet for fluffiness.For the Sauce4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can be swapped with olive oil.3 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder can be used.1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with cornstarch for gluten-free.2 cups Heavy Cream Or milk/half & half; almond milk for dairy-free.For the Topping1 cup Parmesan Cheese Substitute with cheddar or Gruyère.1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Use dried thyme in smaller amount if fresh is unavailable.For Seasoning1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Regular salt can work as a substitute.1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Optional for a milder taste. Equipment ovenbaking dishMandolinelarge pot Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Creamy Scalloped PotatoesPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish.Peel and slice the Yukon gold potatoes thinly (about 1/8 inch thick).Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a pot, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.Sprinkle in all-purpose flour and stir for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.Gradually whisk in 2 cups of heavy cream and cook for about 5 minutes until thickened.Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.Fold in the sliced potatoes ensuring each slice is well coated.Arrange the potato slices in the greased dish, pour remaining sauce on top, and sprinkle extra cheese.Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then bake uncovered for another 30 minutes.Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze portions for longer storage up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
