Scalloped Potatoes

There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish of luscious scalloped potatoes. Remember those family gatherings where the air was thick with warmth and laughter, and a bubbling dish of cheesy, creamy potatoes was on the table? That’s what I’m talking about! This recipe has been a staple in my home for years. It’s rich, satisfying, and a little indulgent. But oh, how it brings people together! Using simple ingredients, it transforms into something beautifully decadent you’ll want to share with everyone. Let me take you through my secrets for creating the perfect scalloped potatoes, a dish you absolutely need in your culinary repertoire.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Scalloped potatoes are not just delicious; they embody the essence of home-cooked comfort food. The marriage of starchy, creamy, and cheesy elements creates a flavor profile that dances on your taste buds and brings a sense of nostalgia. Every forkful is a revelation of textures—the thinly sliced potatoes becoming tender and infused with garlic and onion magic. And then there’s the nutty whisper of nutmeg, a secret that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary.

What truly makes this recipe special is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it at an elegant dinner party or enjoying a cozy weeknight supper, scalloped potatoes never disappoint. Plus, they pair beautifully with everything—from steaks and roasted chicken to a simple green salad. Trust me; you’ll want to make this recipe tonight for its warmth and its ability to bring people together at the table.

Gather these ingredients

Let’s talk about the magic makers of this dish—the ingredients that set the stage for your culinary delight:

Potatoes: Opt for a starchy variety like russet or Yukon gold. Their ability to absorb flavors and their creamy texture make them ideal for scalloping.

Heavy cream: This is your golden liquid gold that brings richness and luxuriousness to every bite. If you want a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half, but we’re living on the edge here, so go for the full cream!

Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to! It brings that tangy bite and gooeyness that makes everything better. Don’t be afraid to mix it up—gruyère or fontina can also add an elegant touch.

Butter: For grease and decadence, a bit of butter will go a long way in making this dish unforgettable.

Garlic & onion: We’re layering flavor here. Mince up some garlic and chop an onion to introduce aromatic depth to your cream.

Salt, pepper, & nutmeg: Simple but essential. They’re the flavor enhancers that’ll make your scalloped potatoes sing! Nutmeg is the secret ingredient—don’t skip it!

Preparing Scalloped Potatoes

Are you ready to bring this creamy dream to life? Follow these steps, and you’ll have a dish that’ll impress everyone at the table:

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and toasty while you work your magic.

2. Slice those potatoes: Peel and slice your potatoes thinly—aim for about 1/8 inch thick. Using a mandoline makes this job a breeze, but a knife works just as well. The key is to keep them consistent for even cooking.

3. Make the cream mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, chopped onion, a generous pinch of salt, freshly cracked pepper, and that magical sprinkle of nutmeg. Stir it up and let it heat until it’s warm—this helps all those flavors meld together.

4. Layer time: Butter a baking dish—don’t hold back! Now, layer your potato slices. Sprinkle a small amount of cheese between each layer, creating a cheesy haven with every few slices.

5. Pour the cream mixture: Once your potatoes are layered up, pour the cream mixture evenly over the top, making sure every last slice gets a bath in that luxurious liquid. Top with any remaining cheese.

6. Dot with butter: Place small pats of butter over the top for extra flavor and a beautiful crust.

7. Bake: Cover it with foil and pop it in the oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until it’s beautifully golden and bubbly on top.

Best way to enjoy it

When it comes to serving, think about the entire experience. Scalloped potatoes are comforting and warm—perfect next to roasted meats like chicken or beef. Serve them with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. You can even sprinkle fresh herbs like chives or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of cream to keep them moist—just like fresh out of the oven!

Helpful cooking tips

• Don’t rush the slicing; thin, even slices are key for perfect cooking.
• Toast the garlic in the cream mixture before adding the other ingredients for deeper flavor.
• Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or even add cooked bacon or ham for an extra savory bite.
• For a lighter version, you can blend in some low-fat milk, but remember, it won’t be quite as rich!

Creative Twists

Want to try something different? How about adding layers of sautéed mushrooms or spinach for earthiness? Or, to spice things up, add diced green chilies for a kick. You could even incorporate different cheese blends like smoked gouda for a uniquely smoky flavor.

Ingredients

• Potatoes
• Heavy cream
• Cheddar cheese
• Butter
• Garlic
• Onion
• Salt
• Pepper
• Nutmeg

Directions to follow

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Peel and slice the potatoes thinly.
3. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Heat until warm.
4. Layer sliced potatoes in a buttered baking dish, sprinkling cheese between layers.
5. Pour the cream mixture over the potatoes and top with remaining cheese.
6. Dot with butter and cover with foil.
7. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Your questions answered

1. Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
2. What’s the best cheese to use? Sharp cheddar is fantastic, but feel free to mix in other melty cheeses for extra flavor.
3. Can I freeze scalloped potatoes? Yes! Freeze after baking and let them cool completely before packaging. Reheat straight from the freezer; just increase the baking time.
4. How do I know when it’s done? You’ll want it bubbly and golden brown. Insert a knife; it should glide through the layers without resistance.
5. What can I serve with scalloped potatoes? They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even a simple green salad.

Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a festive gathering, these scalloped potatoes are bound to warm hearts and bellies alike. They’re more than just food; they evoke memories and create new ones. I challenge you to give this recipe a try! Add your personal flair, and don’t forget to share the journey with those you cherish—together, we celebrate the magic of cooking!

Use Your Leftovers

Reduce food waste by making these recipes with your leftover ingredients:

Creamy Salmon Broccoli Pasta

♻️ Uses leftover heavy cream40%

Cajun Sausage Pasta

♻️ Uses leftover heavy cream40%

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Scalloped Potatoes

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time Cook Time Total Time 80 hrs

Cooking Temp: 350  F Servings: 6 Estimated Cost: $ 10 Calories: 300

Description

A classic recipe for scalloped potatoes combining creamy, cheesy, and aromatic flavors that evoke a sense of home-cooked comfort.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Main Ingredients

• 5 medium potatoes (Use russet or Yukon gold)
• 2 cups heavy cream (Or substitute with half-and-half)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (Can mix with Gruyère or Fontina)
• 4 tablespoons butter (For greasing and flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic (Mince for flavor)
• 1 medium onion (Chop for aromatic depth)
• 1 teaspoon salt (To taste)
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper (To taste)
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon nutmeg (Secret ingredient for flavor)

Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the Oven

   Set it to 350°F (175°C).
   Mark as complete

2. Prepare Potatoes

   Peel and slice the potatoes thinly, about 1/8 inch thick.
   Use a mandoline for uniform slices.
   Mark as complete

3. Make Cream Mixture

   In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Heat until warm.
   Stir to combine flavors.
   Mark as complete

4. Layer Ingredients

   Butter a baking dish. Layer the potato slices with a sprinkle of cheese between each layer.
   Mark as complete

5. Add Cream Mixture

   Pour the cream mixture evenly over the layered potatoes, making sure all slices are covered. Top with remaining cheese.
   Mark as complete

6. Finish with Butter

   Dot the surface with small pats of butter.
   Mark as complete

7. Bake

   Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 300kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 20g31%

Saturated Fat 10g50%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 50mg17%

Sodium 500mg21%

Potassium 600mg18%

Total Carbohydrate 30g10%

Dietary Fiber 2g8%

Sugars 2g

Protein 6g12%

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Vitamin A 300 IU

Vitamin C 15 mg

Calcium 300 mg

Iron 2 mg

Thiamin 0.1 mg

Riboflavin 0.3 mg

Niacin 0.5 mg

Vitamin B6 0.1 mg

Folate 10 mcg

Vitamin B12 0.5 mcg

Phosphorus 250 mg

Magnesium 20 mg

Zinc 1 mg

Copper 0.1 mg

Manganese 0.2 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Freeze after baking for longer storage.

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes, comfort food, side dish