Name: Irresistible Easy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe for Effortless Dining Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is recommended); 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary; Smoked paprika for added depth; Ham or bacon for a savory touch

Introduction

Scalloped potatoes are a comforting classic that’s both creamy and cheesy, making them the perfect side dish for any meal. This easy recipe guides you through layers of tender potatoes baked in a rich, savory cream sauce that’s sure to impress with minimal effort.

A close-up view of a creamy potato gratin showing three clear layers: the top layer is golden brown with crispy, slightly burnt cheese spots, the middle layer is creamy and soft with tender potato slices coated in a rich white sauce, and the bottom layer is made up of more smooth, cooked potato pieces. The texture looks soft and cheesy, with the top crunchy and browned, and the dish is placed on a white plate over a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is recommended)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
Optional: Smoked paprika for added depth
Optional: Ham or bacon for a savory touch

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 4: Add the heavy cream to the onion and garlic mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices you desire.
Step 5: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and allow it to thicken for about 5 minutes.
Step 6: In a greased baking dish, start layering the sliced potatoes. Pour a portion of the creamy sauce over the first layer, then sprinkle some shredded cheese.
Step 7: Repeat this process until all potatoes are layered, finishing with cheese on top.
Step 8: For an extra golden crust, sprinkle additional cheese or breadcrumbs over the top.
Step 9: Bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the potatoes are tender and the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, use a blend of cheeses such as Gruyère or mozzarella mixed with cheddar.
Add cooked ham or crispy bacon between layers for a hearty twist.
Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary enhance the aroma and taste—sprinkle some on top before baking.
Slice potatoes evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half the cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative.

Storage

Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or microwave until heated through. The top may lose some crispness but the dish will remain creamy and delicious.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a golden brown scalloped potato dish in a white ceramic pie dish with wavy edges, showing about three visible layers of thinly sliced potatoes with cheese melted between them. The top layer is bubbly and browned with crispy edges and small dark spots, sprinkled lightly with herbs for texture. The creamy sauce peeks through around the potatoes, creating a rich and soft appearance. The dish sits on a white marbled textured surface, and the photo captures the steam and glistening melted cheese in warm lighting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes for scalloped potatoes?

Yes, while russet potatoes are preferred for their texture, Yukon Golds also work well as they hold their shape and add a buttery flavor.

Do scalloped potatoes need to be parboiled before baking?

No, thinly slicing the potatoes allows them to cook fully in the creamy sauce during baking without parboiling, saving time and preserving flavor.

Irresistible Easy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe for Effortless Dining Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 57 reviews

This irresistible easy scalloped potatoes recipe delivers creamy, cheesy layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes baked to golden perfection. Featuring a rich heavy cream sauce infused with sautéed onions and garlic, this comforting dish makes for effortless dining and pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Optional additions like fresh herbs, smoked paprika, or savory bacon elevate the flavor to your liking.

Author: Sophie
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is recommended)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients

Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
Smoked paprika for added depth
Ham or bacon for a savory touch

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the scalloped potatoes evenly.
Sauté Aromatics: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, releasing their sweetness.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to infuse the butter and onions with its fragrant flavor.
Prepare Cream Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the saucepan with the sautéed onions and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices such as smoked paprika or fresh herbs you prefer.
Simmer Sauce: Bring the cream mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and let it thicken slightly for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Layer Potatoes and Sauce: In a greased baking dish, arrange a layer of the thinly sliced potatoes. Pour a portion of the cream sauce over the potatoes and then sprinkle some shredded cheese evenly on top.
Repeat Layers: Continue layering potatoes, cream sauce, and cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top to create a golden crust.
Add Toppings: For an extra golden and crispy crust, optionally sprinkle additional shredded cheese or breadcrumbs over the top layer before baking.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender, the sauce is bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Notes

For thinner slices, use a mandoline slicer to ensure even cooking.
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce may be less rich.
Add cooked ham or bacon between the layers for a savory variation.
Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set before serving.
Use a mix of cheeses like Gruyere or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
If you prefer a crustier top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.

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