There’s something heartwarming about pulling a bubbling, golden casserole of scalloped potatoes from the oven — that rich aroma of cream, butter, and herbs instantly transports me to family dinners and holiday gatherings. I remember my grandmother’s kitchen on Thanksgiving Day: the counters crowded with dishes, the sound of laughter, and that unmistakable scent of her creamy scalloped potatoes recipe. It wasn’t just food; it was tradition baked in layers.
In this article, we’ll dive into how to create this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe that delivers perfect tenderness, a silky sauce, and those irresistible crispy edges. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving Dinner, a Fiesta Party, or a simple weeknight treat, this dish brings comfort and elegance to the table.
The Story & Intro
A Slice of Memory with Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Everyone has that one recipe that defines home. For me, it’s this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe. Every slice, thin as paper, layered with rich cream and Parmesan, reminds me of slow Sundays spent in the kitchen. The way the sauce thickens on the stove — a roux that transforms into silk — taught me patience and care in cooking.
When you make these potatoes, the goal isn’t speed but attention. Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape beautifully and soak up the sauce perfectly. The butter and garlic create the base of flavor; thyme and Parmesan finish it with elegance.
It’s simple yet indulgent — the kind of side dish that earns compliments at any table, whether at a Thanksgiving Dinner or as part of your Good Eats spread.
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich, creamy scalloped potatoes baked to golden perfection — the perfect holiday side dish.
Ingredients
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5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon all purpose flour
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon fresh thyme
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½ teaspoon kosher salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F and grease ceramic baking dish.
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Slice potatoes thinly using a mandolin.
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Melt butter and sauté garlic, then whisk in flour to form a roux.
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Add cream and whisk until thickened.
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Stir in Parmesan, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Toss potatoes in sauce and arrange upright in dish.
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Cover with foil; bake 30 minutes, then uncover for 30 minutes more.
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Rest 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Store covered in the refrigerator up to 4 days.
Reheat at 350°F until warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner Sides
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 376 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 274 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 53 mg
Why This Dish Works for Every Dinner Table
This creamy scalloped potatoes recipe works because it combines classic comfort with fine-dining flavor. It pairs beautifully with roast meats, vegetables, or even a fresh salad for a Vegane Rezepte twist using plant-based cream. It’s adaptable, easy to prepare ahead, and impossible not to love. You’ll learn the technique that gives you both creamy sauce and crisp edges — a balance that defines perfect scalloped potatoes.
The Foundation of Flavor
Choosing the Right Potatoes and Ingredients
The star of any scalloped potatoes recipe is the potato itself. Yukon Golds bring buttery richness and the ideal texture — creamy but structured. Russets work too, but they tend to soften faster.
Here’s a breakdown of your essentials:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Yukon Gold Potatoes | Creamy texture, holds shape |
| Butter | Adds richness and flavor |
| Garlic | Creates depth and aroma |
| Heavy Cream | Builds the luxurious sauce |
| Flour | Thickens the roux for stability |
| Parmesan Cheese | Adds nutty sharpness and browning |
| Fresh Thyme | Brings an herby freshness |
Building the Perfect Sauce
Start with melted butter and garlic in a pot — cook just until fragrant, then whisk in flour for a light roux. Slowly add heavy cream, stirring constantly. This is where the magic happens: the sauce thickens, turning smooth and glossy. Stir in Parmesan and thyme to finish. This sauce should coat the back of your spoon — thick but pourable — the secret to that rich creamy scalloped potatoes recipe everyone raves about.
Layering and Baking Techniques
How to Slice and Stack Like a Pro
Uniform slices ensure even cooking. Aim for about 1/16 inch — thin enough to absorb the sauce, thick enough to keep texture. Use a mandolin or a sharp chef’s knife. Toss the slices in the sauce gently, ensuring every piece gets coated.
Now comes the artistry: stack the potatoes upright in the baking dish like delicate cards. This vertical method creates those crisp tops and tender centers you see in restaurant-style versions.
Baking for Perfection
Bake covered at 400°F for 30 minutes to soften the layers, then uncover to crisp the edges. The exposed tips brown beautifully, while the center stays moist. The sauce bubbles and reduces slightly, forming a golden crust.
Once baked, let the dish rest for 10 minutes. This step thickens the sauce further — skipping it is the most common mistake in scalloped potatoes. Patience pays off here. You’ll slice into layers that hold together in creamy perfection.
Creative Variations and Serving Ideas
Make It Your Own
Once you’ve mastered the base creamy scalloped potatoes recipe, the possibilities expand. Add shredded cheddar for a cheesy version, swap in coconut cream for a dairy-free Vegane Rezepte variation, or layer thin slices of sweet potato for color and sweetness.
For a Fiesta Party twist, mix in roasted peppers, cumin, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. For Thanksgiving Recipes, try smoked gouda and nutmeg for a deeper holiday flavor.
Perfect Pairings and Storage Tips
These potatoes complement roasted chicken, glazed ham, or grilled vegetables. Serve them with a crisp salad to balance the richness.
Leftovers store beautifully — up to four days in the fridge. Reheat covered at 350°F until warm. They even taste better the next day as the flavors meld.
For busy cooks, assemble ahead and refrigerate unbaked; just bake fresh before serving. This flexibility makes it one of the best Dinner Sides you can prepare.
FAQs
Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the dish through the layering step, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
How do I keep scalloped potatoes from curdling?
Use heavy cream instead of milk, and cook your roux properly before adding dairy. This stabilizes the sauce and prevents separation.
Can I freeze creamy scalloped potatoes?
You can freeze them after baking and cooling completely. Wrap tightly in foil and plastic; thaw overnight and reheat at 350°F.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely. Substitute plant butter and coconut cream or cashew milk, and omit Parmesan or use vegan cheese. It’s one of those Vegane Rezepte that still tastes indulgent.
How can I add extra flavor?
Caramelized onions, smoked paprika, or roasted garlic take this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe to gourmet levels without complicating the process.
Conclusion
This creamy scalloped potatoes recipe combines nostalgia and sophistication in one bite — the buttery sauce, crispy top, and tender layers make it a timeless favorite for any Thanksgiving Dinner, Fiesta Party, or family Sunday meal. Whether you follow it traditionally or adapt it with vegan or global ingredients, it’s guaranteed to win hearts and clean plates every time.
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