Best Scalloped Potatoes Ever
Intro
Scalloped potatoes are the kind of dish that turns any meal into a comforting feast. With tender, thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with melted cheese, they’re indulgent enough for a holiday table but easy enough for a weeknight treat. This recipe gives you the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor with just the right amount of garlic, cheese, and seasoning — the kind that has guests going back for seconds (and maybe thirds).
Potato prep: 10 min
Sauce: 8–10 min
Assembly: 5 min
Baking: 50–60 min
Rest: 10 min
Total Time: ~1 hour 25 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
2 lbs (900g) russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (~⅛ inch thick)
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese (for extra meltiness)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh)
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prep the Potatoes (10 minutes)
Peel potatoes and slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandolin.
Place slices in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you make the sauce.
Make the Creamy Sauce (8–10 minutes)
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to remove raw flour taste.
Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream, stirring until smooth.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 4–5 minutes until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Gruyère until melted and smooth.
Assemble the Dish (5 minutes)
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Drain potatoes and pat dry.
Arrange a layer of potatoes in the dish, pour over a bit of sauce, and repeat until all potatoes and sauce are used, ending with sauce on top.
Add Topping (2 minutes)
Sprinkle Parmesan evenly over the top.
Bake Until Perfect (50–60 minutes)
Cover dish loosely with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 15–25 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender and top is golden brown and bubbly.
Rest and Serve (10 minutes)
Let scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving — this helps the sauce set.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Main Dish Pairing:
Roast chicken, baked chicken, steak, or grilled salmon.
Vegetable Side:
Steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp garden salad.
Festive Twist:
Add a sprinkle of crispy beef bits or caramelized onions before baking for a holiday-worthy upgrade.