Scalloped Potatoes

why make this recipe
Scalloped potatoes are a comforting side dish that can elevate any meal. They’re creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or just a cozy night at home. Its rich, buttery sauce makes it a favorite among many. Plus, it’s simple to make and requires only a few ingredients.
how to make Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×9 inch or a not-deep 2-quart casserole dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until it is soft.
- Lower the heat and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Next, whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes.
- Slowly add the milk while whisking to combine. Keep cooking over low heat until the mixture thickens, whisking frequently. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Stir in about 2/3 of the chopped thyme and parsley and all of the cayenne pepper. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
- In the greased casserole dish, layer 1/4 of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Pour 1/4 of the sauce over the potatoes and spread it evenly. Repeat these layers three more times, finishing with the cream sauce. Top with the remaining herbs.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 30 to 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the edges of the sauce are bubbly. Optionally, turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes to brown the top.
- Before serving, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for added flavor.
how to serve Scalloped Potatoes
Serve scalloped potatoes hot, straight from the oven. They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a larger holiday spread. You can garnish the dish with additional fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
how to store Scalloped Potatoes
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
tips to make Scalloped Potatoes
- Slice Potatoes Thinly: Ensure the potatoes are sliced thinly for even cooking.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and parsley add a bright flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch but fresh will taste better.
- Don’t Skip the Broil: Broiling at the end adds a delicious golden crust on top.
variation
You can add cheese for a cheesy scalloped potatoes version. Cheddar or Gruyère works well. Simply sprinkle some cheese between the layers or on top during the last few minutes of baking.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of potatoes for scalloped potatoes?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes, but Yukon Gold potatoes are best for their creamy texture.
2. Is it possible to make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance, store in the refrigerator, and bake when needed.
3. Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating. It’s best to enjoy them fresh!

Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients
For the sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
Main ingredients
- 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced Slice thinly for even cooking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×9 inch or a not-deep 2-quart casserole dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft.
- Lower the heat and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes.
- Slowly add the milk while whisking to combine. Keep cooking over low heat until the mixture thickens, whisking frequently. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Stir in about 2/3 of the chopped thyme and parsley and all of the cayenne pepper. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Assembly
- In the greased casserole dish, layer 1/4 of the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
- Pour 1/4 of the sauce over the potatoes and spread it evenly. Repeat these layers three more times, finishing with the cream sauce.
- Top with the remaining herbs.
Baking
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 30 to 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the edges of the sauce are bubbly.
- Optionally, turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes to brown the top.
- Before serving, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for added flavor.