Scalloped potatoes are a rich and creamy dish that is perfect for any occasion, from holiday feasts to a simple family dinner. This dish is made from thinly sliced potatoes layered with a creamy sauce, often made with butter, flour, milk, and cheese. It’s baked until golden and bubbling, creating a deliciously indulgent side that complements many main courses.
Quick Facts
| Course | Cuisine | Difficulty | Servings | Prep Time | Cooking Time | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Side Dish | American | Medium | 6 | 15 mins | 1 hour | 250-300 |
Equipment Needed
To make this creamy and satisfying dish, you’ll need a few key kitchen tools:
- Oven – for baking the potatoes to perfection.
- Baking dish – a 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking dish works well.
- Sharp knife – to slice the potatoes evenly.
- Cutting board – for easy and safe potato slicing.
- Whisk – for mixing the creamy sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
- Grater – for shredding cheese (optional but recommended for fresh cheese).
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious scalloped potatoes recipe:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the potatoes by peeling and slicing them into ¼-inch thick rounds. Set them aside.
- Make the sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce for 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens.
- Add seasoning: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Once the sauce is smooth, remove from heat.
- Layer the potatoes: Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pour a little sauce over the top, then sprinkle with shredded cheese. Repeat this layering process until you’ve used all the potatoes and sauce.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy scalloped potatoes!
Essential Note
For the best results, make sure the potatoes are sliced evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. If you prefer a smoother, creamier texture, feel free to add extra cheese or a bit more cream to the sauce. You can also add a bit of Parmesan cheese for an extra savory flavor!
