Scalloped Potatoes: 5 Mouthwatering Recipes to Wow Your Family

Tired of the same old potato side dishes that leave your family unimpressed? I know exactly how you feel. These creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes recipes will transform your dinner table into a place where family members fight over the last serving! As a comfort food specialist who has perfected these recipes through countless family gatherings, I’m excited to share these five variations that deliver restaurant-quality results with simple pantry ingredients.

Hi! I’m Emily, the creator behind Bikren Cook. My journey with scalloped potatoes began when my grandmother taught me her secret recipe during our Sunday family dinners. The way her scalloped potatoes brought everyone to the table with anticipation inspired me to create my own variations that would become new family traditions. Each recipe I’m sharing today has been thoroughly tested and perfected to ensure your family will be asking for seconds!

In this guide, you’ll discover how to select the perfect potatoes, my foolproof techniques for achieving that ideal creamy texture, troubleshooting tips, and five distinctive flavor profiles to match any main dish.

Why These Scalloped Potatoes Recipes Work

• Uses budget-friendly ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
• Prep in advance and bake when ready for stress-free entertaining
• Versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken, beef, or as a vegetarian main
• Crowd-pleasing comfort food that satisfies both adults and picky eaters
• Easily customizable to dietary needs and flavor preferences

Choosing the Right Potatoes for Scalloped Potatoes

Best Potatoes for Scalloped Recipes

Selecting the right potatoes makes all the difference between a mediocre side dish and a memorable scalloped potato masterpiece. For classic scalloped potatoes, starchy varieties create the perfect texture.

• Russets: The high starch content creates a fluffy interior while maintaining shape
• Yukon Golds: Offers a buttery flavor and creamy texture without falling apart
• Idaho Potatoes: Excellent starch level for absorbing the rich cream sauce

Buying Tips

When shopping for potatoes for your scalloped potatoes recipe, look for:

• Firm potatoes with no green discoloration
• Smooth skin with minimal eyes or sprouts
• Potatoes of similar size for even cooking
• Approximately 2-3 pounds for a standard 9×13 baking dish

Substitutions

If you can’t find the ideal varieties, consider these alternatives for your scalloped potatoes:

• Red potatoes (will be less creamy but hold shape well)
• Sweet potatoes (for a unique twist with a slightly sweeter profile)
• Purple potatoes (for visual impact and slightly nutty flavor)

Ingredients & Prep for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

Potato Prep Essentials

Before assembling your scalloped potatoes, proper preparation is crucial:

1. Wash potatoes thoroughly under cold water
2. Peel potatoes (optional but traditional for classic scalloped potatoes)
3. Slice to uniform thickness (1/8-inch for faster cooking, 1/4-inch for more texture)
4. Soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 15 minutes to remove excess starch
5. Pat completely dry before layering

Creamy Sauce Components

The perfect scalloped potatoes require a balanced, flavorful sauce. Here are the essential ingredients:

• Heavy cream or whole milk (2 cups)
• Butter (4 tablespoons)
• All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons)
• Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced)
• Fresh thyme (1 tablespoon, chopped)
• Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon, freshly grated)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Cheese Selections

The right cheese elevates scalloped potatoes from good to extraordinary:

• Sharp cheddar: Provides classic flavor and beautiful color
• Gruyère: Offers sophisticated nuttiness and excellent melting properties
• Parmesan: Adds depth and salty bite when sprinkled between layers

Looking for more delicious potato recipes? Check out my Pinterest collection where I’ve gathered dozens of creative potato dishes your family will love!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Scalloped Potatoes

Pre-Cooking Prep for Scalloped Potatoes

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter
3. Make the sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat
4. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant
5. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes
6. Gradually whisk in cream/milk, cooking until slightly thickened
7. Stir in seasonings and remove from heat

Assembling Your Scalloped Potatoes

1. Layer 1/3 of potato slices in the prepared baking dish
2. Pour 1/3 of sauce over potatoes
3. Sprinkle with 1/3 of cheese
4. Repeat layers twice more
5. Cover tightly with aluminum foil

Baking Scalloped Potatoes to Perfection

1. Bake covered for 45 minutes
2. Remove foil and bake for additional 25-30 minutes until top is golden brown
3. Test doneness by inserting a knife into potatoes – should slide in easily
4. Let stand 15 minutes before serving (sauce will thicken as it cools)

Resting and Serving Scalloped Potatoes

Allow your scalloped potatoes to rest for at least 15 minutes before serving. This crucial step lets the sauce thicken and flavors meld together properly. The dish will remain hot while becoming easier to serve in neat portions.

If you’re looking for a perfectly paired main dish, try my Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken recipe for a complete meal that will have your family asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

Avoiding Common Scalloped Potatoes Mistakes

• Prevent curdled sauce: Use room temperature dairy ingredients
• Eliminate undercooked potatoes: Slice to uniform thickness (mandoline recommended)
• Fix watery results: Pat potato slices completely dry before layering
• Combat bland flavor: Season each layer, not just the sauce
• Prevent burnt tops: Cover with foil for first half of baking time

Kitchen Tool Recommendations

For restaurant-quality scalloped potatoes, these tools make a significant difference:

• Mandoline slicer: Ensures perfectly even potato slices
• Heavy-bottom saucepan: Prevents sauce from scorching
• Whisk: Essential for lump-free cream sauce
• Ceramic baking dish: Provides even heating and attractive serving

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Scalloped Potatoes

• Refrigerate: Store cooled leftovers covered for up to 3 days
• Freeze: Portion into airtight containers for up to 2 months
• Reheat: Cover with foil and warm in 350°F oven until heated through (about 20-30 minutes)
• Microwave: For quick reheating, use 50% power in short intervals to prevent sauce from separating

Flavor Variations for Scalloped Potatoes

Classic Herb & Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

This timeless version brings together fresh herbs and garlic for an elevated take on the traditional recipe. Perfect for holiday meals or Sunday dinners alongside this easy potsticker soup for a complete meal experience.

Three-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes

This indulgent variation combines sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan for the ultimate cheese-lover’s dream. The blend creates a complex flavor profile with perfect melting properties.

Southwest Chipotle Scalloped Potatoes

Add smoky heat with chipotle peppers in adobo, corn kernels, and pepper jack cheese. This variation pairs beautifully with grilled meats for a Tex-Mex inspired dinner.

Mediterranean Scalloped Potatoes

Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, and Mediterranean herbs for a bright, tangy twist on the classic recipe.

Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

Transform your side dish into a complete meal with add-ins like crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, sour cream, and chives for a loaded baked potato experience in casserole form.

Scalloped Potatoes Variation Comparison

Serving Suggestions for Scalloped Potatoes

Create a memorable meal by pairing your scalloped potatoes with these complementary dishes:

Main Dishes

• Herb-roasted chicken or turkey
• Grilled steak or prime rib
• Baked ham
• Seared salmon
• Roasted vegetables for a vegetarian meal

Side Dishes

• Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed or roasted green vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts)
• Crusty artisan bread
• Simple tomato and cucumber salad

Beverage Pairings

• Chardonnay or Viognier
• Pinot Noir
• Sparkling water with lemon
• Unsweetened iced tea

For a complete meal planning guide, pair these scalloped potatoes with my Chicken and Sweet Potato Bowls for a dinner that will become a regular in your meal rotation!

FAQs About Scalloped Potatoes

Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow the dish to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.

What’s the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes?

Traditional scalloped potatoes are made with a cream sauce but no cheese, while potatoes au gratin include cheese in the recipe. However, many modern scalloped potato recipes (including mine) incorporate cheese for extra flavor.

Why are my potatoes still hard after baking?

This usually happens because the potatoes were sliced too thick or the dish wasn’t baked long enough. Ensure your potato slices are uniformly thin (1/8 to 1/4 inch) and extend baking time if needed, testing with a knife for tenderness.

How can I make dairy-free scalloped potatoes?

Substitute the cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free butter. Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I use red potatoes instead of russets?

Yes, though the texture will be different. Red potatoes have less starch and will hold their shape more, resulting in a less creamy but still delicious dish.

Time to Wow Your Family

Scalloped potatoes aren’t just a side dish – they’re a way to show love through food that brings everyone to the table with excitement. Whether you choose the classic herb and garlic version or venture into one of the creative variations, these recipes will elevate your family meals from ordinary to extraordinary.

The beauty of these scalloped potatoes recipes is their flexibility – make them your own by adjusting seasonings or adding personal touches. Join thousands of home cooks who have made these scalloped potatoes the star of their family dinners!

Remember, the key to truly exceptional scalloped potatoes lies in taking your time with the process – from selecting quality potatoes to allowing proper resting time before serving. Your attention to detail will be rewarded with a dish that becomes a requested favorite at every family gathering.

What variation will you try first? I’d love to hear about your scalloped potato adventures in the comments below!