Golden, creamy, and layered with tender slices of potato nestled between rich, cheesy goodness, scalloped potatoes are a comfort food classic that never goes out of style. Whether you’re planning a Sunday family dinner, a cozy holiday feast, or a weeknight indulgence, this dish delivers everything you crave in a side: simplicity, richness, and crowd-pleasing appeal.

There’s something universally satisfying about how the humble potato transforms when baked with cream and cheese until bubbly and golden on top. Each forkful is warm and luscious, the flavors deepened with a hint of garlic and onion, making it almost impossible to stop at just one serving.

Why You’ll Love This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

This recipe is pure comfort food, but it’s also incredibly versatile. It can stand proudly on the table at Thanksgiving or be tossed together midweek to elevate a roast chicken. The creamy sauce bubbles into every crevice of the potatoes, and the slightly crispy edges add that irresistible texture. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly and reheats beautifully.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

The best potatoes for scalloped potatoes are starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. Russets are known for their fluffiness and ability to absorb the creamy sauce well, giving you a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Yukon Golds, on the other hand, hold their shape a bit better and add a natural buttery flavor. If you’re looking for that classic creamy interior, go with Russets. If you want more structure and richness, Yukon Golds are the way to go. Either way, avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes—they don’t absorb the sauce as well and can end up rubbery.

Ingredients for the Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

The key to unforgettable scalloped potatoes is using a short list of quality ingredients that come together in a way that feels luxurious yet familiar. You don’t need anything fancy, just pantry staples and a little patience while it bakes into bubbling perfection.

Russet potatoes: These starchy potatoes absorb the cream well and bake into a tender, velvety texture.
Heavy cream: For that signature rich, silky sauce that coats every layer.
Whole milk: Balances out the richness of the cream without sacrificing texture.
Garlic: Adds aromatic depth that enhances the flavor of the entire dish.
Yellow onion: Softens into sweetness and infuses every bite with savory notes.
Butter: Helps sauté the onions and enriches the sauce.
All-purpose flour: Used to create a simple roux that thickens the cream sauce.
Cheddar cheese: Brings bold, sharp flavor and a gooey top layer.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
Nutmeg (optional): A subtle touch that adds warmth and rounds out the creaminess.

How To Make the Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes to about 1/8-inch thick. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and that silky texture throughout.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. This base infuses the sauce with comforting flavor.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

Sprinkle the flour into the pan and whisk it into the butter-onion mixture to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a greased baking dish, layer half the sliced potatoes. Pour over half the sauce and sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then uncover and bake another 20 to 25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving so the layers set.

How to Serve and Store These Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes are a rich and cozy side that pairs beautifully with almost any main dish. This recipe makes enough to serve about 6 to 8 people as a side, making it perfect for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks. Let the dish sit for 10 to 15 minutes after baking to allow the layers to firm up before serving—this also makes slicing easier.

To store leftovers, let the potatoes cool completely, then cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven until warmed through, or use the microwave for individual portions.

What to Serve With Scalloped Potatoes?

Roast Chicken

The crisp skin and juicy meat of a classic roast chicken is a natural partner to the creamy richness of scalloped potatoes.

Glazed Ham

Perfect for holiday tables, ham brings a sweet and savory element that complements the cheesy layers.

Grilled Steak

The hearty flavors of a perfectly grilled steak contrast beautifully with the soft, cheesy potatoes.

Garlic Butter Green Beans

Add something crisp and green to balance the richness on your plate.

Meatloaf

Old-fashioned meatloaf and scalloped potatoes make a satisfying, nostalgic combo.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms cooked in butter pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Garden Salad

A fresh, tangy salad with vinaigrette can cut through the richness and refresh your palate.

Baked Salmon

For something lighter, pair your potatoes with a juicy piece of oven-baked salmon, finished with lemon and herbs.

Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If you love these scalloped potatoes, you might want to try some of these other delicious recipes that bring comfort to the table:

Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake for a veggie-packed twist with plenty of melty goodness.
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole when you’re craving a seafood main with similar creamy textures.
Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers if you’re looking to add a touch of sweetness and crunch to your spread.
Best Chicken and Rice Casserole for a hearty, comforting one-dish meal.
Tennessee Onions Recipe to bring another savory, baked side dish to your rotation.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with cheddar or mix in Gruyère? Did you add a layer of bacon bits or caramelized onions?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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