Potatoes

Scalloped Potatoes

Name: Scalloped Potatoes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900g) Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 1 lb (450g) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

By Quinn Ainsworth · June 19, 2026 · Potatoes

Prep30 min

Cook45 min

Total75 min

Serves6

I still remember the first time I had scalloped potatoes at a family gathering. The combination of tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and a crispy top was love at first bite. Since then, I've been perfecting my own recipe for scalloped potatoes, and I'm excited to share it with you. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal.

One of the things I love about scalloped potatoes is how versatile they are. You can serve them as a side dish, or add some protein like ham or bacon to make it a main course. They're also a great way to use up leftover potatoes and cheese. In this recipe, I'll show you how to make the fluffiest, most flavorful scalloped potatoes you've ever tasted.

So, what makes this recipe special? For starters, I use a combination of Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes, which gives the dish a nice balance of texture and flavor. I also add some grated cheese to the sauce, which adds an extra layer of creaminess. And, of course, the key to a great scalloped potato dish is to cook the potatoes until they're tender, but still firm. That's where the magic happens, and the potatoes absorb all the flavors of the sauce.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through every step, from preparing the potatoes to assembling and baking the dish. Don't worry if you're new to cooking; I'll explain each step in detail, so you can feel confident and comfortable in the kitchen. So, let's get started and make some delicious scalloped potatoes!

Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone who loves potatoes. It's easy to follow, and the result is a dish that's sure to impress your family and friends. So, go ahead and give it a try, and let me know what you think!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients.
The dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal.
You can customize the recipe to suit your tastes by adding different herbs or spices.
The dish is a great way to use up leftover potatoes and cheese.
The recipe makes a large batch, which is perfect for feeding a crowd.
The dish is comforting and delicious, making it a great option for a cold winter's night.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great scalloped potatoes is to cook the potatoes until they're tender, but still firm. This allows them to absorb all the flavors of the sauce without becoming mushy. Another important factor is the type of potatoes you use. I like to use a combination of Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes, which gives the dish a nice balance of texture and flavor.

The sauce is also an important component of the dish. I use a combination of butter, flour, and milk to make a creamy sauce, and then add some grated cheese to give it an extra layer of flavor. The cheese also helps to thicken the sauce, which is important for scalloped potatoes.

Finally, the way you assemble the dish is crucial. I like to alternate layers of potatoes and sauce, which helps to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the dish. I also top the dish with some extra cheese and breadcrumbs, which adds a nice crunch and flavor to the top.

By following these steps and using the right ingredients, you can make a delicious scalloped potato dish that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So, let's get started and make some amazing scalloped potatoes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few basic ingredients, including potatoes, cheese, butter, and milk. You'll also need some flour to make the sauce, and some breadcrumbs to top the dish. Don't worry if you don't have all of these ingredients on hand; you can easily find them at your local grocery store.

When it comes to the potatoes, I like to use a combination of Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes. Russet potatoes are high in starch, which makes them light and fluffy, while Yukon Gold potatoes are waxy and hold their shape well. This combination gives the dish a nice balance of texture and flavor.

2 lbs (900g) Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly slicedRusset potatoes are high in starch, which makes them light and fluffy. Look for potatoes that are firm and have no bruises or blemishes.
1 lb (450g) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly slicedYukon Gold potatoes are waxy and hold their shape well. They add a nice balance of texture and flavor to the dish.
2 tablespoons unsalted butterButter adds flavor and richness to the dish. You can also use salted butter if you prefer, but be sure to adjust the amount of salt you add to the recipe.
1/2 cup all-purpose flourFlour is used to make the sauce, and helps to thicken it. Make sure to use all-purpose flour, as it has the right balance of protein and starch for this recipe.
1 cup whole milkMilk adds creaminess and moisture to the dish. You can also use 2% or skim milk if you prefer, but keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
1 cup grated cheddar cheeseCheddar cheese adds flavor and richness to the dish. You can also use other types of cheese, such as Parmesan or Gruyère, if you prefer.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheeseParmesan cheese adds a nice salty flavor to the dish, and helps to balance out the richness of the cheddar cheese.
1 teaspoon saltSalt enhances the flavors of the dish and helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperBlack pepper adds a nice spice to the dish, and helps to balance out the flavors.
2 tablespoons breadcrumbsBreadcrumbs add a nice crunch to the top of the dish, and help to absorb any excess moisture.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsleyParsley adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish, and helps to balance out the richness of the cheese and potatoes.
1/4 cup chopped fresh chivesChives add a nice oniony flavor to the dish, and help to balance out the flavors of the parsley and cheese.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlMandoline or sharp knifeSaucepanWhisk9x13 inch baking dishInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Scalloped Potatoes

1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
In a large bowl, combine the sliced Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes. Add the salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
3
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is lightly golden and has a nutty aroma.
4
Slowly add the milk to the saucepan, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, create a layer of potatoes. You can overlap them slightly, but make sure they're in a single layer.
7
Pour some of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, making sure they're all coated. Sprinkle with some of the grated cheese and chopped parsley.
8
Repeat the layers, starting with the potatoes, then the cheese sauce, and finally the grated cheese and parsley. Top the final layer of potatoes with the remaining cheese sauce and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
9
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
10
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the potatoes, which should be at least 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.
11
Serve the scalloped potatoes hot, garnished with additional parsley and chives if desired.

Expert Tips

To ensure the potatoes are cooked evenly, make sure to slice them thinly and uniformly.
If you're using a mandoline to slice the potatoes, be sure to use the safety guard to avoid injury.
To prevent the cheese sauce from separating, make sure to whisk it constantly as you add the milk.
If you're looking for a crispy top on your scalloped potatoes, try broiling the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
To make the dish more substantial, you can add some cooked bacon or ham to the cheese sauce.
To make the dish ahead of time, you can prepare the cheese sauce and slice the potatoes up to a day in advance. Assemble the dish just before baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not slicing the potatoes thinly enough, which can result in a dish that's too dense and heavy.
Not cooking the cheese sauce long enough, which can result in a sauce that's too thin and watery.
Not using enough cheese, which can result in a dish that's too bland and flavorless.
Not letting the dish rest long enough before serving, which can result in a dish that's too hot and messy.
Not using the right type of potatoes, which can result in a dish that's too waxy or too starchy.
Not seasoning the dish enough, which can result in a dish that's too bland and flavorless.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced ham or bacon to the cheese sauce for a smoky flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Parmesan, for a unique flavor profile.
Add some chopped herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the cheese sauce for a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
Use sweet potatoes instead of Russet potatoes for a sweeter and nuttier flavor.
Add some diced onions or garlic to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for a creamy and melty sauce.
Add some chopped cooked vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, to the cheese sauce for a nutritious and filling dish.

What to Serve With Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of main courses. Try serving them with a roasted chicken or beef, or as a side dish for a holiday meal. You can also serve them with a salad or some steamed vegetables for a light and healthy meal.

Some other ideas for serving scalloped potatoes include serving them with a fried egg and some crispy bacon for a hearty breakfast, or as a side dish for a BBQ or picnic. You can also serve them with some grilled vegetables or a green salad for a healthy and delicious meal.

Serve with a roasted chicken or beefServe as a side dish for a holiday mealServe with a salad or some steamed vegetablesServe with a fried egg and some crispy bacon for a hearty breakfast

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Scalloped potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are hot and the top is golden brown.

You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months. To freeze, simply assemble the dish and freeze before baking. To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are hot and the top is golden brown.

It's also important to note that scalloped potatoes can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen until ready to bake. This makes them a great dish for meal prep or for serving at a large gathering.

To prevent the dish from drying out, make sure to cover it with aluminum foil during reheating. You can also add a little bit of milk or cream to the dish to keep it moist and creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of potatoes should I use for scalloped potatoes?

You can use either Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, or a combination of both. Russet potatoes are high in starch and will yield a lighter, fluffier dish, while Yukon Gold potatoes are waxy and will hold their shape better.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from separating?

To prevent the cheese sauce from separating, make sure to whisk it constantly as you add the milk. You can also add a little bit of flour or cornstarch to the sauce to help thicken it and prevent separation.

Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make scalloped potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them until ready to bake. Simply assemble the dish and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.

How do I reheat scalloped potatoes?

To reheat scalloped potatoes, simply cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are hot and the top is golden brown.

Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze scalloped potatoes for up to 2 months. To freeze, simply assemble the dish and freeze before baking. To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are hot and the top is golden brown.

What's the best way to serve scalloped potatoes?

Can I add other ingredients to scalloped potatoes?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to scalloped potatoes to give them extra flavor and nutrition. Some ideas include diced ham or bacon, chopped herbs, or grated cheese.

How do I prevent scalloped potatoes from drying out?

To prevent scalloped potatoes from drying out, make sure to cover the dish with aluminum foil during reheating. You can also add a little bit of milk or cream to the dish to keep it moist and creamy.

The Full Recipe

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