If you are on the hunt for a comforting, cheesy, and richly satisfying side dish that will steal the show at any meal, look no further than the Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. This classic dish brings together tender slices of potatoes enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with a crisp, golden breadcrumb crust. Each bite delivers a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or simply treating yourself to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for the Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is delightfully simple, yet each component plays a crucial role in creating that luscious texture and irresistible flavor. From the creamy cheeses to the perfectly tender potatoes, every ingredient works together to bring this dish to life.
- 6 large potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for creamy layers that absorb the sauce beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps form the roux that thickens the sauce.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the cheese sauce into a velvety consistency.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the creaminess perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right touch of warmth and spice.
- 2 cups whole milk: Creates the creamy base that soaks into the potatoes for tenderness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides sharp, tangy flavor that defines the dish’s character.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty undertone and deepens the savory notes.
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs: Sprinkled on top to create a crisp, golden crust that adds wonderful texture contrast.
How to Make Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures your scalloped potatoes won’t stick and makes for easy serving later.
Step 2: Slice the Potatoes Thinly
Peel your potatoes and slice them as thinly and evenly as possible using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife. Thin slices cook more uniformly and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
Step 3: Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper to create a roux, cooking it gently for about 1 minute. This base thickens the sauce and introduces a silky texture.
Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce
Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens smoothly, about 5 minutes. Then remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy. This sauce is the heart of the Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe.
Step 5: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the first layer, ensuring every slice is well coated. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce for a double decker of cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Add Crunchy Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top, which will bake into a golden, crispy crust. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour to allow the potatoes to soften.
Step 7: Finish Baking for Perfect Texture
Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 30 minutes. This browns the breadcrumb topping and gives the dish a visually appealing and appetizing finish. Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving to set up nicely.
How to Serve Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives over the top brings a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous freshness that complements the cheese and potatoes beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines alongside roast meats such as beef, pork, or chicken, and pairs wonderfully with steamed green vegetables or a crisp salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, consider serving individual portions in small ramekins, topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, broiled briefly for a personalized golden crust that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making the next day’s serving even tastier.
Freezing
You can freeze your scalloped potatoes before baking by covering the dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months, then bake straight from frozen, adding extra cooking time as needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven covered with foil until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes, to maintain creamy texture without drying out. Avoid microwaving for the best results.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan make a classic cheesy sauce, feel free to experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even smoked cheeses for unique flavors.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is traditional for scalloped potatoes and helps create a smooth, creamy texture, but leaving the skins on can add a rustic element and extra nutrients.
Is there a substitute for whole milk?
You can use 2% milk, but whole milk gives a richer, creamier sauce that’s key to the Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe’s lusciousness. For a lighter version, try half-and-half sparingly.
Can scalloped potatoes be made gluten-free?
Yes, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make the sauce without gluten.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform thin slices ensure they cook evenly and absorb the sauce perfectly without becoming mushy.
Final Thoughts
I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe soon. It’s a timeless comfort dish that beautifully balances creamy, cheesy richness with a satisfying crunchy topping. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe promises smiles and seconds at the table every time!
Print
Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 1h 30m
- Total Time: 1h 50m
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Best Scalloped Potatoes recipe features thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich and creamy cheese sauce with a crisp golden breadcrumb topping. Perfectly comforting and indulgent, it’s an ideal side dish for holiday dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 6 large potatoes
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Slice Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife for even layering and consistent cooking.
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat to start the roux base.
- Make Roux: Stir in the flour, salt, and black pepper to the melted butter. Cook while stirring for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce is smooth and thickened, approximately 5 minutes.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and combined into the sauce.
- Layer Potatoes – First Layer: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Cheese Sauce – First Layer: Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the first layer of potatoes.
- Layer Potatoes – Second Layer: Repeat by layering the remaining potatoes on top.
- Add Cheese Sauce – Second Layer: Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the second potato layer.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the top of the potatoes and sauce for a crunchy finish.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour at 350°F (175°C) to cook the potatoes through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and set.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the hot, creamy scalloped potatoes as a delicious side dish to your favorite meals.
Notes
- Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly thin potato slices to ensure even cooking.
- The cheese sauce can be adjusted to include different cheeses like Gruyere or mozzarella for variation.
- Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking prevents the top from burning while allowing the potatoes to soften.
- Letting the dish rest after baking helps the sauce thicken for better texture when served.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free bread crumbs.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated covered in the oven for best texture retention.
