Name: Family Favorite Scalloped Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Ingredients: 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp paprika

Family Favorite Scalloped Potatoes

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Family Favorite Scalloped Potatoes

Home

Dinner

Family Favorite Scalloped Potatoes

April 10, 2025

Author : Megan C

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Family Favorite Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food Perfection 🥔🧀🔥

1. Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of scalloped potatoes baking in the oven to bring the whole family together. This classic scalloped potatoes recipe has been passed down through generations, perfected to create the ultimate creamy, cheesy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or preparing for a holiday feast, these scalloped potatoes will steal the show with their golden crust and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

What makes this scalloped potatoes recipe truly special is the perfect balance of flavors – the richness of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, the creaminess of the sauce, and the subtle herb notes that elevate every bite. Unlike many scalloped potato recipes that can turn out dry or bland, this version guarantees perfect results every time with its foolproof method and carefully tested ingredient ratios.

Golden-brown scalloped potatoes with melted cheese, perfect for family dinners.

2. Ingredients

Gathering high-quality ingredients is the first step to making perfect scalloped potatoes. Here’s what you’ll need for this foolproof recipe:

4 lbs russet potatoes – Peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick). Russets are ideal because their high starch content helps create that perfect creamy texture.
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – The sharpness adds wonderful flavor depth. For extra creaminess, try mixing in some Monterey Jack.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – This adds a lovely nutty flavor to balance the cheddar.
3 cups whole milk – The higher fat content creates a richer sauce than lower-fat alternatives.
1/2 cup heavy cream – This gives the sauce its luxurious texture.
1/4 cup butter – Unsalted is best so you can control the salt level.
3 cloves garlic – Minced fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
1 tsp salt – Adjust to taste, but don’t skimp – potatoes need seasoning.
1/2 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground adds the best flavor.
1 tsp dried thyme – Or substitute 2 tsp fresh thyme if available.
1/2 tsp paprika – Adds subtle warmth and beautiful color.

For those looking to add some protein, consider including diced ham or bacon between the layers – it pairs wonderfully with the creamy potatoes, much like in our popular glazed ham recipe.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This moderate temperature allows the potatoes to cook through without drying out. While the oven heats, peel your russet potatoes and slice them uniformly to about 1/8-inch thickness. A mandoline slicer makes quick work of this task and ensures even cooking, but a sharp knife works fine too – just take your time.

As you slice the potatoes, you can place them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning, but be sure to pat them very dry before assembling the dish. Excess water can make your scalloped potatoes watery rather than creamy. This attention to detail is what separates good scalloped potatoes from truly great ones.

Thinly sliced potatoes layered in a baking dish for Family Favorite Scalloped Potatoes.

Step 2: Layer Potatoes and Cheese

Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter – this adds flavor and helps prevent sticking. Begin by arranging half of your potato slices in the dish, slightly overlapping them like shingles. This overlapping creates those beautiful layers scalloped potatoes are known for.

Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese and half of the Parmesan evenly over the first potato layer. Then repeat with the remaining potatoes and most of the remaining cheese, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cheese mixture for the topping. The cheese between layers ensures every bite is packed with flavor, similar to how we layer cheese in our cheeseburger lasagna for maximum deliciousness.

Shredded cheddar cheese being sprinkled over potatoes for scalloped potatoes.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned – this releases the garlic’s flavor without making it bitter. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, then add the salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.

Heat the mixture until it just begins to simmer around the edges, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s hot to the touch but not boiling – boiling can cause the dairy to separate. This creamy sauce is what makes these scalloped potatoes so luxurious, much like the sauce in our slow cooker chicken delight.

Pour the warm sauce evenly over the layered potatoes, making sure to cover all surfaces. The sauce should come about halfway up the sides of the baking dish – if it seems low, you can add a bit more milk.

Creamy milk and butter mixture being prepared for scalloped potatoes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil – this creates a steamy environment that helps the potatoes cook through evenly. Bake covered for 45 minutes, then carefully remove the foil (watch out for steam!) and sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top.

Return the dish to the oven uncovered for another 30-40 minutes. The scalloped potatoes are done when the top is beautifully golden brown, the sauce is bubbling around the edges, and a knife slides easily through the potato layers. For extra color and crispiness, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes – just watch carefully to prevent burning.

Let the scalloped potatoes stand for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the sauce to thicken slightly so it coats the potatoes perfectly rather than running off. The wait will be hard because your kitchen will smell amazing, but it’s worth it for the perfect texture!

Baking dish with scalloped potatoes being placed in the oven.

4. Cooking Tips

For extra crispy edges – Broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but watch carefully to prevent burning. The contrast between crispy top and creamy interior is heavenly.
Resting is crucial – Let scalloped potatoes rest 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken properly. Cutting in too soon can make them seem watery.
Meat lover’s variation – Add cooked bacon or diced ham between layers for a heartier version that could serve as a main dish.
Flavor boost – Substitute half the milk with chicken broth for more savory depth. This works especially well when serving with poultry.
Make-ahead magic – Prepare up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Cheese alternatives – While cheddar is classic, try Gruyère, Fontina, or a blend for different flavor profiles. Our mozzarella stuffed pretzels use a similar cheese blending technique.

5. Serving Suggestions

These scalloped potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide variety of main dishes. For a classic combination, serve alongside our glazed ham during holiday meals – the sweet-salty ham and creamy potatoes complement each other perfectly.

They’re also wonderful with roasted chicken, turkey, or beef dishes. For a complete meal, consider adding some honey butter cornbread poppers and a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. The creamy texture and rich flavor make this scalloped potatoes recipe perfect for special occasions, but don’t save it just for holidays – it’s comforting enough for weeknight dinners too!

For a vegetarian option, pair with our stuffed cabbage rolls and some crusty bread. The scalloped potatoes also make an excellent potluck dish – they travel well and always disappear quickly.

6. Storage and Reheating

Leftover scalloped potatoes (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) store beautifully. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results when reheating, use the oven rather than the microwave:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Transfer potatoes to an oven-safe dish
Splash with a little milk to restore creaminess
Cover with foil and heat for 20-25 minutes until hot throughout

You can also freeze scalloped potatoes for up to 2 months. Freeze in portion-sized containers for easy meals. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as above, adding a few extra minutes to the heating time.

7. Nutritional Information

One serving (about 1 cup) of this scalloped potatoes recipe contains approximately:

320 calories
18g fat (11g saturated)
30g carbohydrates
3g fiber
12g protein

For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cheese and milk alternatives, though the texture won’t be quite as rich. The potatoes provide vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, while the dairy adds calcium and protein. As with all indulgent dishes, enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is one of those wonderful dishes that actually benefits from being prepared in advance. You can assemble the entire dish up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, you’ll need to add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time since you’re starting with a cold dish. This make-ahead quality makes scalloped potatoes perfect for holiday meals when oven space is at a premium.

What’s the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin?

This is a common question! Traditional scalloped potatoes are made with a cream sauce but no cheese (the “scalloped” refers to the way the potatoes are sliced), while potatoes au gratin always include cheese (the “gratin” refers to the browned cheese topping). Our scalloped potatoes recipe combines both methods for maximum flavor – we use both a rich cream sauce and plenty of cheese. For more cheesy inspiration, check out our no-bake cheesy bread recipe.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

While russet potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes because of their high starch content (which helps create that perfect creamy texture), Yukon Gold potatoes make an excellent alternative. They have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture that works well in this dish. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes or fingerlings, as they hold their shape too well and won’t give you that melt-in-your-mouth quality. If you’re interested in other potato dishes, our friends at Spend With Pennies have a great traditional version worth checking out.

Why are my scalloped potatoes watery?

Watery scalloped potatoes usually result from one of three issues: 1) Not patting the potatoes dry after slicing (especially if you soaked them), 2) Using potatoes that are too waxy (like red potatoes), or 3) Not baking long enough for the starches to thicken the sauce. Following our recipe exactly should prevent these issues. If you do end up with excess liquid, you can carefully pour some off before the final uncovered baking stage.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This scalloped potatoes recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Just be sure to check that any added ingredients (like pre-shredded cheese or broth) are certified gluten-free if that’s a concern for you. The sauce thickens from the potato starches rather than flour, making it perfect for gluten-free diets.

9. Conclusion

This foolproof scalloped potatoes recipe delivers creamy, cheesy perfection every time – the kind of dish that creates lasting memories around the dinner table. With its golden crust giving way to tender potatoes bathed in rich, flavorful sauce, it’s no wonder this has become our most-requested side dish recipe. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast, Sunday dinner, or just because you crave some comfort food, these scalloped potatoes are guaranteed to impress.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its perfect balance – rich but not heavy, flavorful but not overpowering, impressive but surprisingly simple to make. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary meal into something special, much like our other baked favorites. We hope this becomes a treasured recipe in your family just as it has in ours, creating warm memories and satisfied smiles for years to come.

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for perfect scalloped potatoes, why not make them tonight? Your family will thank you, and you’ll understand why this dish has earned its place as a true family favorite. Happy cooking!