Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe for Comforting Side Dish

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by Emma Taylor

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The smell of creamy cheese and buttery potatoes wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine slicing into a perfectly baked dish of scalloped potatoes, each layer revealing tender spuds enveloped in luscious cream, bubbling cheese, and a hint of garlic that sends your taste buds into overdrive. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly evening, begging to be paired with everything from grilled meats to just an eager fork.

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This recipe for scalloped potatoes might just become your new best friend at dinner parties and family gatherings. I remember the first time I pulled a bubbling dish out of the oven; my cousin was convinced I’d taken a culinary course in France! Let’s just say that while I can’t whip up soufflés, these creamy layers definitely stole the show.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The ease of preparation makes this dish a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions.
  • Bursting with rich flavors, it pairs beautifully with almost any main course.
  • The golden crust and creamy layers offer a visual feast that’s sure to impress your guests.
  • Perfectly versatile, you can add veggies or proteins for an even heartier meal.

I still chuckle when I think about my family’s reaction to my first attempt at this recipe; there were no leftovers that night!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Potatoes: Choose starchy varieties like Russets for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Heavy Cream: Full-fat cream gives you that luxurious richness; don’t skimp here!
  • Cheddar Cheese: Aged cheddar works wonders for depth; grate it fresh for best results.
  • Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning better throughout the dish.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add aromatic flavor; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every bite; taste as you go!
  • Nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch brings warmth and complements the creaminess beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking so those layers get bubbly perfection.

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. This will help prevent sticking and adds flavor too!

Slice Those Potatoes!: Using a sharp knife or mandolin, slice your potatoes thinly—about 1/8 inch thick is ideal—for even cooking.

Create Your Cream Mixture: In a bowl, mix heavy cream with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you’re feeling fancy. Whisk until combined.

Layer It Up!: Start layering half of your potato slices in the baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over them before sprinkling with cheese.

Finish With More Layers!: Repeat the process with the remaining potato slices and cream mixture. Top off with any leftover cheese to create that glorious gooey crust.

Bake Away!: Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Let those scrumptious scalloped potatoes sit for about 10 minutes before serving; they’ll slice beautifully without falling apart!

Now you’ve joined me on this culinary adventure! Enjoy every cheesy bite of these scalloped potatoes—they’re bound to become a cherished staple at your dinner table!

You Must Know

  • Scalloped potatoes are a creamy, cheesy delight that brings comfort to any table.
  • Let the aroma of garlic and cheese fill your kitchen as you prepare this dish.
  • Their golden crust and tender layers create a beautiful side that everyone will love.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by slicing the potatoes evenly for uniform cooking, then layer them with cheese and cream for the best flavor. Bake at 350°F until bubbly and golden, ensuring every bite is creamy perfection.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different cheeses like Gruyère or add herbs such as thyme for extra flavor. You can even incorporate sautéed onions or bacon bits if you want to bring an extra kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, adding a splash of cream if needed to revive creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfectly tender potatoes, soak them in cold water before baking to remove excess starch.
  • Always cover your dish with foil during baking to prevent over-browning.
  • Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter flavor that elevates your scalloped potatoes.

I remember the first time I made scalloped potatoes for a family gathering; they vanished faster than I could say “seconds!” My aunt still asks for the recipe every holiday.

FAQs

FAQ

What type of potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture when baked.

Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble them a day in advance and bake just before serving.

How can I make scalloped potatoes gluten-free?

Use cornstarch instead of flour in the creamy sauce for a delicious gluten-free option.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Scalloped Potatoes Dish

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes


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  • Author: Emma Taylor
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 8

Description

Creamy scalloped potatoes are a decadent side dish that elevates any meal. Layers of tender potatoes, rich cream, and melted cheese create an irresistible comfort food experience.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups aged cheddar cheese, grated
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
  3. Thinly slice the potatoes using a sharp knife or mandolin.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  5. Layer half of the potato slices in the baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over them and sprinkle with half of the cheese.
  6. Repeat layering with the remaining potato slices, cream mixture, and top with leftover cheese.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
  8. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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