Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Creamy Comfort Side Dish

When it comes to cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort food, scalloped potatoes are always a standout. Thinly sliced potatoes layered with a luscious cream sauce and baked to golden perfection—what’s not to love? Whether you’re planning a holiday meal, a Sunday dinner, or just craving something indulgent and cheesy, this classic dish never disappoints.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make perfect scalloped potatoes from scratch—crispy edges, creamy center, and all the rich, savory flavor that makes this dish a family favorite. Don’t be intimidated by the fancy name—it’s easier than it looks, and once you learn the basics, you can customize it endlessly.

Need a refresher on how to slice potatoes thin and even? A mandoline slicer can make prep a breeze and ensure even cooking. And if you’re curious about the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin, check out this helpful explainer article to get the scoop.

What Are Scalloped Potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes are a classic side dish made with thin slices of potato baked in a rich, creamy sauce—usually butter, milk or cream, and occasionally cheese. While often confused with potatoes au gratin (which are cheesier and have a breadcrumb topping), scalloped potatoes focus more on the cream sauce and tender texture.

They’re beloved for their:

Silky layers
Buttery flavor
Golden brown top
Incredible pairing with everything from ham to roast chicken

Ingredients for Classic Scalloped Potatoes

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make this dish shine:

2 ½ pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (or a mix of milk and cream)
1 cup heavy cream
1 small onion, finely chopped (optional for extra flavor)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but adds a nice warmth)
1 ½ cups shredded cheese (optional, if you like it extra indulgent—try Gruyère or cheddar)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Make the Cream Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until soft (2–3 minutes).
Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
Stir in cheese if using, and remove from heat once melted.

3. Assemble the Layers

Spread a thin layer of cream sauce in the bottom of your baking dish.
Layer half of the potato slices in an even, slightly overlapping pattern.
Pour half the cream sauce over the potatoes.
Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.

4. Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Remove foil and continue baking for another 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and a knife slides through the potatoes easily.

5. Cool & Serve

Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers firm up and makes slicing easier.

Pro Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes

Slice evenly: Thin, even slices (about 1/8 inch thick) ensure that all the potatoes cook through at the same rate.
Use starchy potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal. They absorb the sauce and help thicken the dish.
Infuse your cream sauce: Sautéed onions and garlic add depth. A pinch of thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor even more.
Rest before slicing: This allows the sauce to set and the layers to stay intact when serving.

Variations to Try

Want to make your scalloped potatoes even more exciting? Try these flavorful twists:

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Mix in 1–2 cups of shredded cheese to the sauce and sprinkle more on top.
Bacon & Chive: Add cooked bacon bits between the layers and garnish with chopped chives.
Herb Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the cream sauce while it simmers.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free milk (like oat or almond), and nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Top with sour cream, green onions, and a sprinkle of cheddar—like a baked potato in casserole form.

Make Ahead & Storage Tips

Scalloped potatoes are a great make-ahead dish—perfect for meal prep, holidays, or dinner parties.

Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to 1 day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add 10–15 minutes to the bake time if starting cold.
Storing Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze baked scalloped potatoes for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

What to Serve with Scalloped Potatoes

This rich, creamy side pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes:

Roasted or glazed ham (perfect for Easter or Christmas)
Grilled chicken or turkey breast
Slow-cooked or seared pork chops
Beef tenderloin or pot roast
Fresh side salads or sautéed greens to balance the richness

Want a full meal idea? Try pairing your scalloped potatoes with this juicy roast chicken recipe and a side of garlic green beans.

FAQs About Scalloped Potatoes

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but whole milk or a mix of milk and half-and-half gives the creamiest results. Avoid skim milk—it may make the sauce too thin.

Q: Why are my potatoes still hard after baking?
You may have sliced them too thick or not baked long enough. Use a mandoline for consistent, thin slices and check for doneness by piercing the center with a knife.

Q: Can I add cheese?
Absolutely! While traditional scalloped potatoes don’t include cheese, many modern recipes (and taste buds!) love the cheesy addition.

Q: How do I prevent curdling?
Use heavy cream or a mix of cream and milk, and avoid using acidic ingredients like sour cream or yogurt in the sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason scalloped potatoes have stood the test of time—they’re simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile. With creamy layers of soft, buttery potatoes bathed in a savory sauce, this dish is the definition of cozy comfort food.

Whether you serve them as a holiday side or a weeknight indulgence, scalloped potatoes are sure to steal the show. Just don’t expect leftovers—they disappear fast!

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