Elevate your side dish game with our recipe for the Best Scalloped Potatoes. This classic comfort dish combines thinly sliced potatoes, layers of savory onions, and a velvety, seasoned sauce to create a mouthwatering masterpiece. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts, these scalloped potatoes are a surefire crowd-pleaser. Join us on a culinary journey as we guide you through the simple steps to achieve potato perfection.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
- ½ onion, thinly sliced
- 9 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided
- 6 tablespoons butter, diced and divided
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 3 cups whole milk, or as needed
Directions:
- Preparation:
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Layering:
Spread about 1/3 of the potato slices on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, followed by 1/3 of the sliced onions. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of flour over the potatoes and onions, and arrange 2 tablespoons of diced butter atop the flour. Season the entire layer with salt and pepper. Repeat this layering process twice more. - Milk Mixture:
Heat the whole milk in a saucepan until warm. Pour enough warm milk over the layers in the baking dish so that the top of the liquid is level with the final layer of potatoes. - Baking:
Bake in the preheated oven until the potatoes are tender, approximately 45 to 60 minutes.
Tips:
- Potato Thickness:
Ensure uniform potato slices for even cooking. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve the desired thickness. - Cheese Variation:
For a cheesy twist, sprinkle a layer of your favorite shredded cheese between the potato layers. - Herb Infusion:
Experiment with adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, our Best Scalloped Potatoes recipe delivers a delightful symphony of flavors and textures, making it a standout addition to any meal. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes, savory onions, and velvety sauce create a side dish that is both comforting and elegant. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these scalloped potatoes are a culinary triumph that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
PrintBest Scalloped Potatoes
These Scalloped Potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, making them the ultimate comfort food side dish. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a rich, garlicky cream sauce and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, creating a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add the salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of the cheddar cheese until melted.
3. Assemble the Potatoes:
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle with half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cream sauce, and Parmesan cheese.
- Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, and the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Even Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices that cook evenly.
- Cheese Variations: Swap out cheddar for Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.