Homemade Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

Few dishes are as comforting as Scalloped Potatoes—thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce until golden and bubbling. This classic side dish is perfect for holiday dinners, Sunday roasts, or weeknight meals, and it pairs beautifully with roast chicken, ham, steak, or even a simple salad.

With tender layers of potatoes, rich cream, and a golden-brown crust, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.

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Why You’ll Love These Scalloped Potatoes

✅ Creamy & Cheesy – Every bite is rich, buttery, and full of flavor.
✅ Perfect Side Dish – A crowd-favorite that pairs well with any main course.
✅ Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – Basic pantry staples come together to create a decadent dish.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully.
✅ Customizable – Add cheese, herbs, or even ham for extra deliciousness!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Potatoes

• 3 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup butter
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

For the Creamy Sauce

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)

For Extra Cheesiness (Optional, But Recommended!)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Dish

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

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Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

• Wash, peel (if desired), and thinly slice the potatoes about ⅛-inch thick.
• Use a mandoline slicer for even slices, or a sharp knife.

(💡 Pro Tip: If not using immediately, soak the potatoes in cold water to prevent browning. Drain and pat dry before layering.)

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Add the diced onion and garlic, and cook until soft and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
• Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
• Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture thickens slightly (about 3-4 minutes).
• Stir in salt, pepper, and paprika.

(💡 For Extra Flavor: Add ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard for a tangy twist!)

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Step 4: Layer the Potatoes & Sauce

• Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish.
• Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potatoes.
• (Optional) Sprinkle ½ cup cheddar cheese over the layer.
• Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.

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Step 5: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

• Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
• Remove the foil, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top, and bake uncovered for 20-25 more minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
• Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.

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Step 6: Garnish & Serve!

• Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley for an extra pop of flavor.
• Serve warm and enjoy every rich, creamy, cheesy bite!

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Serving Ideas & Pairings

🥩 With Roasted Meat – Perfect with ham, steak, roast beef, or grilled chicken.
🥦 With Veggies – Pairs well with roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or a fresh salad.
🥖 With Bread – Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
🍷 With Wine – A Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy richness.

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Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes

🔹 Use Starchy Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes create the best creamy texture.
🔹 Slice Evenly – Thin, uniform slices ensure even cooking.
🔹 Don’t Skip the Cream Sauce – It’s what makes the potatoes rich, soft, and flavorful.
🔹 Bake Covered First – Covering traps moisture and prevents the top from burning.
🔹 Rest Before Serving – Let the dish sit for 10 minutes after baking to help the sauce thicken.

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Fun Variations to Try

🧀 Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes – Add extra cheddar, Gouda, or Swiss cheese for a richer flavor.
🥓 Bacon & Scalloped Potatoes – Stir in crispy bacon bits for smoky goodness.
🌿 Herbed Scalloped Potatoes – Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or chives.
🔥 Spicy Scalloped Potatoes – Sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
🥩 Loaded Scalloped Potatoes – Top with sour cream, chives, and crispy bacon for a “loaded” version.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Scalloped Potatoes Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I Use Half-and-Half Instead of Heavy Cream?

Yes, but heavy cream makes it extra rich and creamy.

Can I Freeze Scalloped Potatoes?

It’s best to freeze after baking. Let cool, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat at 350°F for 20 minutes.

Why Are My Potatoes Not Soft?

If they’re still firm, bake longer covered—some potato varieties take longer to cook.

What’s the Difference Between Scalloped & Au Gratin Potatoes?

• Scalloped Potatoes = Baked in a creamy sauce (no cheese in traditional recipes).
• Potatoes Au Gratin = Includes cheese in every layer.

(💡 This recipe is a mix of both—a creamy sauce + optional cheese!)

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Final Thoughts

These Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, with layers of creamy, cheesy, buttery goodness that will impress any crowd.

Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any time you need a rich, satisfying side dish, this recipe is simple to make but tastes absolutely gourmet.

Try this delicious and creamy scalloped potatoes recipe today—it’s sure to become a new favorite!

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