Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

These Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal, featuring a rich, cheesy sauce and perfectly crispy edges. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just looking for a comforting side dish, this recipe delivers on flavor and presentation. The combination of Yukon gold potatoes and creamy goodness makes it hard to resist, ensuring your guests will be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The creamy and cheesy sauce elevates the humble potato to a gourmet dish.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delicious side without stress.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress guests and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare ahead of time and simply bake before serving for easy entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to create your creamy scalloped potatoes.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mandolin or sharp knife
• Large pot
• Medium-sized ceramic baking dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandolin or sharp knife: Ensures even, thin slices of potatoes for perfect cooking.
• Large pot: Ideal for making the creamy sauce in one place without mess.
• Medium-sized ceramic baking dish: Provides even heat distribution while baking, enhancing the dish’s texture.

Ingredients

To prepare these creamy scalloped potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

For the Potatoes

• 5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes

For the Sauce

• 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)

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a medium-sized ceramic baking dish.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandolin or sharp knife:
* Slice the potatoes as thinly as possible, about 1/16th of an inch.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a large pot over medium heat:
1. Melt the butter with minced garlic until aromatic.
2. Stir in the flour to create a roux; let it cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually stir in heavy cream and continue stirring until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Parmesan cheese (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper; mix until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Potatoes and Sauce

Remove from heat:
1. Let the sauce cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, add sliced potatoes and pour sauce over them.
3. Gently toss to coat all potato slices evenly with sauce.

Step 5: Arrange in Baking Dish

Stack potato slices upright in the greased baking dish:
1. Pour any leftover sauce over top.
2. Optionally sprinkle extra Parmesan on top.

Step 6: Bake

Tent with aluminum foil:
1. Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes.
2. Remove foil; bake uncovered for another 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from oven:
Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious creamy scalloped potatoes! They’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

How to Serve Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Creamy scalloped potatoes are a versatile side dish that can elevate any meal. Their rich, cheesy flavor pairs well with a variety of main dishes, making them a favorite for gatherings and celebrations.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the creamy texture of the potatoes.

Serve with Roast Beef

• The hearty taste of roast beef matches beautifully with the cheesy richness of scalloped potatoes.

Accompany with Steamed Vegetables

• Bright and fresh steamed vegetables provide a nice balance to the creamy dish, adding color and nutrition.

Great alongside Lamb Chops

• The savory notes of lamb chops pair well with the indulgent flavors of creamy scalloped potatoes.

Perfect with Turkey or Chicken Pot Pie

• These scalloped potatoes enhance the comfort food experience when served alongside pot pies, making for a cozy meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Achieving perfectly creamy scalloped potatoes requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time.

• Slice potatoes thinly: Use a mandolin or sharp knife to slice the Yukon gold potatoes as thinly as possible for even cooking and maximum creaminess.
• Make a smooth roux: When preparing your roux, stir continuously until it’s slightly golden before adding cream. This adds depth to the sauce.
• Layer carefully: Layer the potato slices evenly in the baking dish to ensure consistent cooking and flavor throughout.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps thicken the sauce and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

When planning your meal, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with creamy scalloped potatoes. They add variety and complement the flavors beautifully.

1. Grilled Asparagus
   Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil make a lovely contrast to creamy potatoes.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These crispy sprouts provide a delightful crunch that balances the creaminess of the dish.
3. Garlic Bread
   Toasted garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce from the scalloped potatoes.
4. Mixed Green Salad
   A fresh salad dressed lightly adds brightness and freshness alongside hearty scalloped potatoes.
5. Honey Glazed Carrots
   Sweet glazed carrots offer a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the dish.
6. Quinoa Pilaf
   A light quinoa pilaf adds protein and texture, making it a nutritious accompaniment to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making creamy scalloped potatoes can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using uneven potato slices: If the potato slices are not uniform in thickness, some will cook faster than others. Use a mandolin for even slices.
• Skipping the roux: A roux helps thicken the sauce. Don’t skip this step; cook the flour with butter before adding cream for a smooth texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Proper seasoning is key. Taste your sauce before adding it to the potatoes and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Stacking potatoes too tightly can lead to uneven cooking. Arrange them loosely for optimal heat distribution.
• Removing foil too late: Foil traps steam. Remove it halfway through baking to allow the tops to crisp up nicely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the potatoes to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, layer parchment paper between portions to prevent sticking.

Reheating Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making creamy scalloped potatoes:

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, while Yukon gold potatoes add creaminess, you can also use Russet or red potatoes for different textures.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make vegan creamy scalloped potatoes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and omit cheese or use nutritional yeast for flavor.

What should I serve with creamy scalloped potatoes?

Creamy scalloped potatoes pair well with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How do I ensure my sauce is smooth?

Whisk continuously when adding cream after cooking the roux. This prevents lumps from forming and ensures a silky sauce.

Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or mix in different cheeses for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Creamy scalloped potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile enough to complement any meal. Their rich flavor and smooth texture make them a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or cheeses to make it uniquely yours!

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Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy delight of Creamy Scalloped Potatoes, a perfect side dish that elevates any meal. This recipe features layers of tender Yukon gold potatoes enveloped in a luscious sauce made from butter, garlic, and cream. With a beautifully baked top that adds a delightful crunch, these scalloped potatoes are not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this dish guarantees to please even the pickiest eaters and keeps everyone coming back for more.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh thyme
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a medium-sized ceramic baking dish.
2. Thinly slice the Yukon gold potatoes using a mandolin or sharp knife.
3. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in flour to create a roux and cook briefly.
4. Gradually whisk in cream until thickened, followed by Parmesan cheese (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine sliced potatoes with the sauce until evenly coated.
6. Layer the potato slices upright in the greased baking dish and pour any remaining sauce on top.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; then uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes until golden brown.
8. Allow cooling for about 10 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 50mg