These scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. With layers of thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, this dish is perfect for any dinner table. The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese creates a deliciously smooth and flavorful sauce that will have everyone coming back for more.
Whether you’re serving them alongside a juicy roast or enjoying them on their own, these scalloped potatoes are always a hit. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time for convenience. So, get ready to indulge in this cheesy, comforting classic—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Layer sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are a beloved classic that have graced dinner tables for generations. With their rich, creamy texture and savory flavor, they are the perfect accompaniment to a variety of main dishes, from roasted meats to grilled vegetables. This dish, often baked in a rich cheese sauce, offers layers of tender potatoes that soak up the creamy sauce, creating a comforting side dish that everyone loves.
Whether you’re preparing for a holiday meal, a special family gathering, or a cozy weeknight dinner, scalloped potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that can be made to fit your tastes. From simple to decadent, the beauty of scalloped potatoes lies in their versatility. Whether you prefer a sharp cheddar, a creamy Gruyère, or a blend of both, the cheese sauce can be customized to create a dish that’s uniquely yours.
The History of Scalloped Potatoes
The origins of scalloped potatoes date back to the early 19th century. The term “scalloped” comes from the French word escalloper, meaning “to shell,” a reference to the way the dish is prepared by layering the thin slices of potatoes. The dish was likely influenced by French culinary traditions, where gratin-style dishes were popular, which involve layering ingredients and then baking them with a sauce or cheese topping.
Over time, scalloped potatoes became a staple in American cuisine, particularly in the southern United States, where they are often made with a variety of ingredients, including cheese, butter, and milk. The dish evolved and adapted, with home cooks adding their personal twists—some incorporating garlic, onions, or herbs to infuse even more flavor into the creamy layers. Today, scalloped potatoes can be found in nearly every American home, and they continue to be a favorite side dish at family dinners and festive occasions.
Why Scalloped Potatoes Are the Perfect Side Dish
There are few side dishes as universally adored as scalloped potatoes. The reason for their popularity is clear—creamy, cheesy potatoes are simply irresistible. The comforting texture of thinly sliced potatoes, drenched in a velvety sauce, pairs perfectly with almost any main course. Whether you’re serving them alongside a juicy roast chicken, a perfectly grilled steak, or a delicate piece of fish, scalloped potatoes complement any dish with their rich, indulgent flavor.
Another reason scalloped potatoes are a favorite is their versatility. While the traditional version uses cheese, cream, and butter, the recipe can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences and needs. You can make it gluten-free by substituting the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cream and use low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or oat milk. This flexibility allows you to enjoy this comforting dish no matter your dietary restrictions.
Tips for Making the Perfect Scalloped Potatoes
While making scalloped potatoes may seem simple, there are a few key tips that can help you achieve the perfect dish every time.
-
Choose the Right Potatoes: The best potatoes for scalloped potatoes are starchy varieties like Russet potatoes. These potatoes break down during cooking, creating a creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are also a great option, as they are waxy and hold their shape while still absorbing the sauce.
-
Slice Potatoes Evenly: To ensure that your potatoes cook evenly, it’s important to slice them as uniformly as possible. Use a mandoline slicer if you have one, as it allows for consistent thickness. This will ensure that all the slices cook at the same rate and result in a creamy, tender dish.
-
Don’t Skip the Cheese Sauce: The cheese sauce is what makes scalloped potatoes truly indulgent. Be sure to make a smooth sauce by whisking the flour and butter mixture before adding the milk and cream. This prevents lumps and ensures that the sauce is silky and smooth. Adding cheese gradually to the sauce allows it to melt evenly, creating a luscious coating for the potatoes.
-
Layering Is Key: For the best results, layer the potatoes and sauce in a baking dish. Start by placing a layer of sliced potatoes in the dish, then pour a generous amount of the cheese sauce over them. Repeat until you have used all the potatoes and sauce, finishing with a final layer of sauce on top. This ensures that each bite is perfectly creamy and flavorful.
-
Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Scalloped potatoes need to bake long enough for the potatoes to become tender and the sauce to thicken. Be sure to cover the dish with foil for the first 40 minutes of baking to retain moisture and prevent the top from browning too quickly. In the last 20 minutes, remove the foil to allow the top to become golden and crispy.
Customization Options
One of the greatest things about scalloped potatoes is that they are highly customizable. While the classic version uses just cheese, cream, butter, and milk, you can add a variety of ingredients to make the dish your own. Here are a few ideas:
- Herbs and Spices: For added flavor, try incorporating herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley. A touch of garlic powder or freshly minced garlic can also give the dish an aromatic boost.
- Bacon or Ham: For a heartier version, consider adding crispy bacon or chopped ham to the layers of potatoes. This addition will bring a savory, smoky flavor that complements the creaminess of the dish.
- Cheese Varieties: While cheddar is the most common cheese used in scalloped potatoes, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or fontina for a unique twist. Each cheese will add its own distinct flavor, allowing you to personalize the dish.
- Vegetable Add-ins: If you want to make your scalloped potatoes more of a main dish, try adding vegetables such as spinach, leeks, or mushrooms. These ingredients will complement the richness of the potatoes and add more texture and flavor to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Scalloped potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few ideas for what to serve with your scalloped potatoes:
- Roast Chicken or Turkey: The creamy potatoes balance perfectly with the savory, juicy flavors of roasted poultry.
- Steak: A rich steak, whether grilled, pan-seared, or roasted, pairs wonderfully with the decadence of scalloped potatoes.
- Grilled Vegetables: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, serve scalloped potatoes alongside grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Salads: A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the potatoes and creates a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich and creamy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their layers of tender potatoes and velvety cheese sauce, they bring a level of indulgence that is hard to beat. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with your own creative variations, scalloped potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—you can easily adapt it to suit your tastes and dietary preferences, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
So, the next time you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying side dish, look no further than these scalloped potatoes. With a few simple ingredients and a little time, you’ll have a dish that will wow your family and friends. Whether it’s a holiday feast, a weeknight dinner, or a casual gathering, scalloped potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser, bringing warmth, flavor, and a touch of indulgence to every meal.