Scalloped Potatoes

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Scalloped potatoes are a creamy, cheesy side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-29T14:41:39.497Z

Scalloped potatoes have been a beloved comfort food for generations. This creamy dish, layered with thinly sliced potatoes and a rich cheese sauce, is perfect for family gatherings and special occasions. The combination of flavors makes it a staple for many holiday tables.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy layers of cheese and potatoes that satisfy every craving
  • Perfectly baked with a golden, crispy top
  • Versatile enough to complement any main dish

A Comfort Food Classic

Scalloped potatoes are a timeless dish that has graced dinner tables for generations. Their creamy texture and rich flavors make them an ideal comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. The combination of thinly sliced potatoes layered with cheese and cream creates a sumptuous experience that is hard to resist.

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you're serving it alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad, scalloped potatoes complement a wide range of main courses. They can easily be adapted to your taste, allowing you to experiment with different cheeses or add herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate side dish, making them suitable for a variety of occasions. From holiday feasts to casual barbecues, they always impress guests. Their warm, inviting aroma fills the kitchen, creating a welcoming atmosphere for family and friends. No matter the season, scalloped potatoes can elevate any meal.

Moreover, they can be prepared in advance, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones. Simply assemble the dish and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This convenience makes scalloped potatoes a go-to recipe for busy cooks who still want to serve something special.

Ingredients

For the Scalloped Potatoes

  • 6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the dish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.

Layer the Potatoes

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle with half of the garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.

Add Cream and Cheese

Pour half of the heavy cream over the first layer of potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheese.

Repeat Layers

Repeat with the remaining potatoes, spices, cream, and cheeses.

Bake the Dish

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your scalloped potatoes!

These potatoes can be made ahead and reheated for serving.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

To achieve the best results with your scalloped potatoes, it's vital to choose the right type of potatoes. Starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds hold up well during cooking and provide a creamy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they can become mushy and won't yield the same satisfying bite.

Additionally, don't skimp on the cream and cheese! The richness of heavy cream combined with generous helpings of cheese creates that sought-after indulgent flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary between the layers for an aromatic twist.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover scalloped potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their creamy texture, reheat them gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from becoming overly browned during reheating.

For longer storage, scalloped potatoes can also be frozen. Allow the dish to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above for delicious leftovers.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses such as Gruyère or mozzarella.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead and bake it when ready.

→ What can I serve with scalloped potatoes?

They pair well with roasted meats, such as chicken or beef, and are great for holiday meals.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes are a creamy, cheesy side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration60 minutes
Overall Time80 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 6 servings

What You'll Need

For the Scalloped Potatoes

  1. 6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
  2. 2 cups heavy cream
  3. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  4. 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  5. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1 teaspoon salt
  7. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  8. 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  9. 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the dish

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.

Step 02

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle with half of the garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 03

Pour half of the heavy cream over the first layer of potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheese.

Step 04

Repeat with the remaining potatoes, spices, cream, and cheeses.

Step 05

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 06

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your scalloped potatoes!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 6g