If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that will warm your heart and fill your belly, you’ve come to the right place! My Best Scalloped Potatoes are a family favorite and always steal the show at any gathering. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, these scalloped potatoes elevate everything from busy weeknight dinners to festive holiday feasts. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, so you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting. Whether you’re serving it alongside a roast or as part of a potluck spread, these scalloped potatoes will have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip these up without breaking a sweat.
Perfect for sharing: This recipe serves eight people, making it ideal for family gatherings or dinner parties.
Creamy and delicious: The combination of heavy cream and sharp cheddar creates a rich flavor that is simply irresistible.
Make-ahead option: Prepare the layers in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve—so convenient!
Customizable: Feel free to add herbs or vegetables to personalize this dish to your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Best Scalloped Potatoes, all you need are some simple and wholesome ingredients. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Potato Layers

2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Sauce

2 cups heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
4 tbsp unsalted butter, sliced

For the Topping

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your scalloped potatoes:

Add fresh herbs: Toss in some fresh thyme or rosemary between layers for an aromatic twist.
Incorporate veggies: Layer in sautéed onions or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Cheese swap: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for unique flavors.
Lighten it up: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you’re looking for a lighter version.

How to Make Best Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your scalloped potatoes cook evenly and develop that golden, bubbly top we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and peel your potatoes before slicing them thinly. A mandoline works wonders here if you have one! Thin slices help create those creamy layers that melt together beautifully during baking.

Step 3: Mix the Cream Sauce

In a bowl, combine your heavy cream with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This mixture adds flavor to every layer of potato. The garlic infuses the cream with its lovely aroma as it bakes—trust me; your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 4: Layer It Up

In a greased medium baking dish, start layering your potato slices. Pour some of that creamy mixture over each layer before sprinkling on cheddar cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used up—don’t forget that last layer of cheese; it’s essential!

Step 5: Top with Crunchy Panko

Mix melted butter with panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle this crunchy topping over the final layer of potatoes. This adds texture and a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy layers below.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 30 minutes until it’s golden brown on top. The result? A bubbling dish of pure comfort just waiting for you!

And there you have it—your very own Best Scalloped Potatoes ready to be devoured! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Best Scalloped Potatoes

Making the perfect Best Scalloped Potatoes is all about attention to detail and a few expert techniques. Here are some tips to help you achieve creamy, flavorful layers every time!

Use a mandoline for even slices: Achieving uniform potato slices ensures they cook evenly, providing that delightful creamy consistency throughout the dish.
Incorporate cheese between layers: Adding cheese not only enhances flavor but also contributes to a richer, creamier texture. This layering technique helps create pockets of melted goodness.
Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier, resulting in beautifully defined layers.
Experiment with herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a fragrant twist. Layering them in with the potatoes elevates the overall flavor profile.
Make it ahead of time: You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready for a delicious side at mealtime!

How to Serve Best Scalloped Potatoes

Serving Best Scalloped Potatoes is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. With its golden crust and creamy layers, this dish will certainly be a star on your table. Here are some serving suggestions to make it shine even brighter!

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkling some chopped parsley on top adds a burst of color and freshness that balances out the richness.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adding a light sprinkle of Parmesan on top just before serving provides an additional layer of flavor and an appealing finish.

Side Dishes

Roasted asparagus: The crispness of roasted asparagus pairs beautifully with the creamy potatoes, adding both texture and color to your plate.
Grilled chicken breast: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs offers a lean protein option that complements the rich scalloped potatoes perfectly.
Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli is not only healthy but also adds a vibrant contrast to the golden potatoes, making your meal visually appealing.
Mixed green salad: A fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette can help cut through the creaminess of the potatoes, providing a refreshing balance.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Best Scalloped Potatoes will be an unforgettable addition to any meal! Enjoy creating this comforting dish that everyone will love!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Best Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor their rich flavors on busy days. Preparing this dish in advance not only saves time but also enhances the taste as it sits.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely before storing.
Transfer them to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Cool the scalloped potatoes fully before freezing.
Cut into individual portions for easy reheating later.
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Thaw frozen scalloped potatoes in the refrigerator overnight.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making the Best Scalloped Potatoes.

Can I make the Best Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!

What type of cheese is best for scalloped potatoes?

While sharp cheddar is traditional for these Best Scalloped Potatoes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

How do I prevent my scalloped potatoes from being watery?

To avoid watery scalloped potatoes, ensure that you slice your potatoes evenly and allow them to drain slightly after washing. Also, using heavy cream helps create a thick, creamy consistency.

Can I add vegetables to the Best Scalloped Potatoes?

Definitely! Adding sautéed onions, spinach, or even mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your Best Scalloped Potatoes. Just layer them between the potato slices.

Final Thoughts

These Best Scalloped Potatoes are truly something special, bringing warmth and comfort to any dining table. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive celebration, this recipe is sure to impress everyone around you. I hope you enjoy making this delicious dish as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations—happy cooking!

Best Scalloped Potatoes

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 8
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Best Scalloped Potatoes. Creamy and cheesy, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions, easily stealing the spotlight on any dinner table.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
4 tbsp unsalted butter, sliced
1 cup panko breadcrumbs

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Wash and peel the potatoes, then slice them thinly.
In a bowl, combine heavy cream with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Layer potato slices in a greased baking dish, pouring cream mixture over each layer and sprinkling cheddar cheese.
Top with a mixture of melted butter and panko breadcrumbs.
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 30 minutes until golden brown.