Here’s a scalloped potatoes recipe that’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect as a side dish for any meal — especially for gatherings and holidays. This classic recipe features layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, flavorful cream sauce.
🥔 Classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
🕐 Prep Time: 20 minutes
🍳 Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 6–8
🧾 Ingredients
Main:
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2 ½ lbs (1.1 kg) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (about 6 medium potatoes)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups whole milk (warm)
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 ½ teaspoons salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but adds warmth)
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1 ½ to 2 cups grated cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix – optional but recommended)
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Slice the Potatoes
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Peel the potatoes (optional, but traditional).
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Slice into ⅛-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline for even slices.
✅ Tip: Keep the sliced potatoes in cold water to prevent browning while you prepare the sauce.
3. Make the Cream Sauce (Béchamel)
In a medium saucepan:
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Melt butter over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion (if using) and sauté until soft (3–5 minutes).
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Add garlic, cook for 30 seconds.
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Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly (this makes a roux).
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Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream, stirring until smooth.
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Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly (5–7 minutes).
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Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
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If using cheese, stir in 1 cup of cheese until melted.
4. Layer the Potatoes
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Drain the potatoes and pat them dry.
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Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish.
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Pour half the cream sauce over the layer.
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Add half the remaining cheese (if using).
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Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and top with the rest of the cheese.
5. Bake
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Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
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Uncover and bake for another 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
✅ Tip: Insert a knife or fork to check for doneness. It should slide in easily.
6. Rest and Serve
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Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken up and the flavors to meld.
🧀 Optional Variations
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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes (technically au gratin): Add more cheese between layers and on top.
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Bacon: Add cooked crumbled bacon between layers.
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Herbs: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
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Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños for heat.
📦 Storage and Reheating
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Reheat: Cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20–25 minutes.
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Freezing: Not ideal due to the creamy sauce separating, but possible. Freeze after baking and cooling, then thaw in fridge before reheating.