Scalloped Potatoes

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Deliciously creamy and cheesy scalloped potatoes make for the perfect side dish for any meal.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-29T18:36:55.446Z

Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any dining table. With layers of tender potatoes baked in a creamy sauce, they are the perfect accompaniment to roast meats or a festive holiday spread.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with any main dish
  • Simple to prepare with minimal ingredients
  • Perfect for family gatherings and special occasions

The Perfect Side Dish

Scalloped potatoes are a classic side dish that can elevate any meal. Their rich, creamy texture complements a wide variety of main courses, from roasted meats to baked fish. The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese adds depth and complexity, making each bite a savory delight. Whether it's a family dinner or a holiday feast, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe.

Not only do scalloped potatoes taste incredible, but they also have a nostalgic quality that brings comfort to the table. The warm, cheesy layers evoke memories of family gatherings and special occasions, creating a sense of warmth and togetherness. It's a dish that transcends generations, making it a beloved favorite in many households.

Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of scalloped potatoes is their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this dish without any culinary expertise. The thinly sliced potatoes allow for even cooking and a lovely presentation. Plus, the use of heavy cream ensures that the final product is rich and indulgent, yet it comes together in a breeze.

The layering technique used in this recipe not only enhances the flavor but also creates an appealing visual. As the potatoes bake, they absorb the cream and cheese, resulting in a luscious, gooey texture that is hard to resist. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for the best scalloped potatoes:

Ingredients

  • 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to layer the ingredients properly for even cooking and flavor distribution.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your scalloped potatoes:

Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.

Layer the Potatoes

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle with half of the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.

Add the Cream and Cheese

Pour half of the heavy cream over the potatoes and sprinkle with half of the cheddar and Gruyère cheese.

Repeat Layers

Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg, cream, and cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let the scalloped potatoes sit for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious scalloped potatoes as a comforting side dish!

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

To ensure your scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly, it’s essential to slice the potatoes evenly. A mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform thickness, allowing for consistent cooking. Also, consider using a mix of cheeses for additional flavor; experiment with different varieties like mozzarella or Fontina for a unique twist.

For added depth, you can sauté the minced garlic in butter before layering it with the potatoes. This will enhance the garlic flavor and add a delightful aroma to the dish. If you prefer a bit of spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the dish's flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Scalloped potatoes pair wonderfully with a range of main dishes. They are fantastic alongside roasted chicken, beef brisket, or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option. The creamy texture acts as a perfect counterbalance to rich proteins, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

To make your meal even more special, serve scalloped potatoes alongside a fresh green salad and crusty bread. This combination not only adds color to your table but also provides a well-rounded dining experience that will satisfy all your guests.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

→ What can I serve with scalloped potatoes?

They pair well with meats like roast chicken, ham, or beef.

Scalloped Potatoes

Deliciously creamy and cheesy scalloped potatoes make for the perfect side dish for any meal.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration60 minutes
Overall Time80 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
  2. 2 cups heavy cream
  3. 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
  4. 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1 teaspoon salt
  7. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  8. 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  9. 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing
  10. Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.

Step 02

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle with half of the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.

Step 03

Pour half of the heavy cream over the potatoes and sprinkle with half of the cheddar and Gruyère cheese.

Step 04

Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg, cream, and cheese.

Step 05

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 06

Let the scalloped potatoes sit for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 6g