A waft of warming aromas filled my kitchen as I prepared to unveil a side dish that truly stole the show: Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes. With layers of tender Yukon gold potatoes nestling in a silky garlic cream sauce, this recipe is comfort food at its finest. Perfectly cheesy and easy to make ahead, these scalloped potatoes not only highlight the richness of each ingredient but also offer a gluten-free option for all to enjoy. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday feast, this dish easily adapts to any occasion. Are you ready to elevate your cooking game with a comforting classic? Let’s dive in! Why Are Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Irresistible? Comforting Layers: Each spoonful reveals tender potatoes enveloped in a divine garlic cream sauce that’s simply irresistible. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare these scalloped potatoes a day in advance for ultimate convenience, perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings. Versatile Pairing: They complement everything from a succulent roast chicken to a festive holiday spread, ensuring you’re covered for any meal. Gluten-Free Delight: With easy substitutions, even gluten-free friends can indulge in this cozy side without compromise. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a potluck, these creamy scalloped potatoes are sure to win hearts around the table. Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients • Key ingredients to create cheesy bliss! For the Potatoes Yukon Gold Potatoes – Their creamy texture is perfect for scalloping; russet potatoes can be used for a fluffier result. For the Sauce Unsalted Butter – This rich component enhances the sauce’s flavor; olive oil can provide a lighter option. Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds aromatic depth; garlic powder can substitute but may change the flavor. All-Purpose Flour – This builds a roux for the sauce; use cornstarch or rice flour for a gluten-free version. Heavy Cream – Ensures a silky texture; almond milk thickened with cornstarch offers a dairy-free substitution. Parmesan Cheese – This nutty cheese contributes a delicious crust; cheddar or Gruyère can be used for a richer flavor. Fresh Thyme – Provides an herbaceous note; use dried thyme at a ratio of 1:3 for a suitable alternative. Kosher Salt – Elevates the overall flavor; regular salt will work in a pinch. Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice; feel free to omit for a milder taste. For the Topping Extra Parmesan – A sprinkle on top enhances the cheesy experience and ensures a lovely browning during baking. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, take a ceramic baking dish and grease it lightly with butter to prevent sticking. This will ensure that your creamy scalloped potatoes slide out easily when serving, maintaining their lovely layers and buttery goodness. Step 2: Slice the Potatoes Peel the Yukon gold potatoes and slice them thinly using a mandoline or a sharp knife—aim for about 1/8 inch thickness. Layering the potatoes in even slices will help them cook uniformly in the oven, resulting in tender bites enveloped in the creamy sauce. Set the sliced potatoes aside as you prepare the sauce. Step 3: Sauté the Garlic In a large pot over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning. The aroma of the garlic will enhance the rich flavor of your creamy scalloped potatoes, adding depth to the sauce. Step 4: Create the Roux Sprinkle in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, stirring it into the melted butter and garlic to create a roux. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to bubble and thicken slightly. This step is crucial as it forms the base of your creamy sauce, giving it a velvety texture that coats the potatoes beautifully. Step 5: Add the Cream Gradually whisk in 2 cups of heavy cream, continuing to stir vigorously as the mixture thickens—this should take about 5 minutes. Watch for the sauce to start bubbling gently and to coat the back of a spoon. The creamy consistency should be smooth and luscious, perfect for enveloping the layers of potatoes. Step 6: Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings Once the cream thickens, stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. This cheesy, herb-infused flavor will elevate your creamy scalloped potatoes to a comforting masterpiece. Step 7: Combine Potatoes and Sauce Carefully fold the sliced potatoes into the creamy mixture, ensuring every slice is evenly coated in the heavenly sauce. This step ensures that every bite of your creamy scalloped potatoes is bursting with flavor. The coated potatoes should glisten with the rich sauce, setting you up for a delicious bake. Step 8: Arrange in Baking Dish Start arranging the coated potato slices upright in a greased baking dish, creating an attractive layered effect. Once all the potatoes are neatly in place, pour any remaining creamy sauce over the top, ensuring all the layers are well covered. Sprinkle an additional ½ cup of Parmesan on top for a golden, cheesy crust. Step 9: Bake the Dish Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes. You’ll know your creamy scalloped potatoes are ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly, creating an irresistible visual appeal. Step 10: Rest Before Serving Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve without falling apart. Your creamy scalloped potatoes will be perfectly comforting and ready to be shared with family or friends. What to Serve with Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Imagine the delightful aromas filling your kitchen as you create a comforting meal that evokes warmth and togetherness. Roast Chicken: The savory flavors of juicy roast chicken embrace the creamy richness, making for a satisfying combo that warms the soul. Steamed Asparagus: Bright, tender asparagus adds a fresh crunch, cutting through the richness of the scalloped potatoes for a balanced bite. Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread provides a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, perfect for mopping up any leftover creamy sauce. Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and tangy dressing offers a refreshing counterpoint to creamy scalloped potatoes, lifting the overall meal. Grilled Steak: A perfectly grilled steak brings a robust, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy layers on your plate. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn serves as a delightful side, adding a bit of sweetness and a satisfying crunch to the comforting dish. Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine enhances the comforting essence, creating a rich dining experience that harmonizes with the meal. Chocolate Lava Cake: To finish on a sweet note, a warm chocolate lava cake offers a rich and indulgent dessert that your family will love. How to Store and Freeze Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Fridge: Store creamy scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked scalloped potatoes for up to 2 months. Wrap in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Make-Ahead: You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate without baking. Bake directly from the fridge—just add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time for creamy scalloped potatoes that are fresh and delicious! Make Ahead Options These Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are a fantastic choice for those who like to meal prep and save time during busy weeknights! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance by layering the potatoes and sauce in your baking dish, then covering it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the wrap, cover with foil, and bake straight from the refrigerator—this helps maintain the creamy texture of the sauce. If you’d like to prep even further in advance, you can slice the potatoes and store them in cold water for up to 3 days to keep them from browning. Just drain and add to the sauce before baking, ensuring your creamy scalloped potatoes are just as delicious as if made fresh! Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Variations Feel free to explore delicious twists on your creamy scalloped potatoes that match your taste and dietary needs! Dairy-Free: Use almond milk thickened with cornstarch and replace cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a creamy texture without the dairy. Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or rice flour to create that signature roux without gluten—every bite will still delight! Cheese Lover’s Dream: Swap in cheddar or Gruyère cheese for an even richer flavor that adds a twist to the classic cheesy goodness. Herb-Infused: Elevate the flavor by adding fresh rosemary or sage for an aromatic touch that complements the creamy base beautifully. Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Stir in cooked bacon or ham between the layers for a hearty, meaty addition. This transformation makes the dish more filling and satisfying. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to boost the heat level and create an exciting flavor burst in every bite. Vegetable Medley: Layer in thinly sliced zucchini or spinach to increase the nutrition and vibrancy of the dish. This adds color and flavor, making it a feast for the eyes and belly. Make-Ahead Wonder: Prepare your dish the night before and pop it in the oven the next day for a stress-free win at any family gathering. Whatever variation you choose, your scalloped potatoes will be a hit! If you’re interested in pairing these with something fabulous, consider serving them alongside Lemon Herb Potatoes or even a refreshing slice of Eli’s Cheesecake. Enjoy your culinary adventure! Expert Tips for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Sauce Thickness: Ensure the cream sauce thickens before baking; this prevents curdling and guarantees a silky texture in your creamy scalloped potatoes. Potato Preparation: Slice the Yukon gold potatoes uniformly to achieve even cooking; uneven slices can result in some potatoes being undercooked while others become mushy. Make-Ahead Advantage: Assemble your dish up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator; this saves time on busy days and deepens the flavors. Substitution Savvy: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère for a flavor twist; just remember, this may alter the overall taste of your creamy scalloped potatoes. Resting Time: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall eating experience. Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right Yukon Gold potatoes? Absolutely! Look for Yukon Gold potatoes that are firm and have smooth skin without any dark spots or blemishes. These characteristics ensure they will be tender and creamy once cooked. If they have any soft spots or sprouts, it’s best to avoid them. Can I store leftover creamy scalloped potatoes in the fridge? Very much! Store your creamy scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or microwave until heated through. For the best results, reheat in the oven to maintain that creamy texture. How should I freeze creamy scalloped potatoes? If you’d like to freeze your delicious dish, it’s super easy! First, let the scalloped potatoes cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and again in foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. What if my sauce is too thin? No worries, this happens sometimes. If your sauce turns out thinner than expected, you can fix it! Simply return the pot to medium heat and let it simmer gently while stirring until it thickens, about 5-10 minutes. You can also whisk in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it further. Are creamy scalloped potatoes gluten-free? Yes, absolutely! You can easily make creamy scalloped potatoes gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with cornstarch or rice flour when making the roux for the sauce. This way, everyone can relish in the creamy comfort without worry! Can I make creamy scalloped potatoes ahead of time? Very much so! You can prepare the dish up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble everything in your baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven – you may need to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure they are heated through and delicious! Creamy Scalloped Potatoes that Steal the Dinner Show Indulge in creamy scalloped potatoes that steal the dinner show with layers of Yukon gold potatoes and garlic cream sauce. 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: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Potatoes3 pounds Yukon Gold PotatoesFor the Sauce4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter4 cloves Garlic minced1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour2 cups Heavy Cream1 cup Parmesan Cheese grated1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme1 teaspoon Kosher Salt1 teaspoon Black PepperFor the Topping1/2 cup Extra Parmesan for topping Equipment Ceramic baking dishMandolinePotWhiskKnife Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a ceramic baking dish with butter.Peel and thinly slice the Yukon gold potatoes, about 1/8 inch thick.Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring to create a roux, and cook for 1-2 minutes.Gradually whisk in 2 cups of heavy cream and stir until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper until combined.Fold the sliced potatoes into the creamy mixture until evenly coated.Arrange the coated potato slices upright in a greased baking dish and pour any remaining sauce over the top. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of Parmesan.Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 30 minutes.Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesStore creamy scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
