Best Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that feels like a warm hug on your plate, then let me introduce you to my favorite Best Scalloped Potatoes. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying! Whenever I serve it, I see smiles all around the table. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings, transforming any meal into a celebration. Plus, who can resist layers of tender potatoes enveloped in rich cream, topped with crispy panko?

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a holiday feast, these scalloped potatoes are sure to impress. They not only fill up hungry bellies but also create wonderful memories around the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have this delicious side dish ready to pop in the oven.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor—it’s a guaranteed hit!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat for stress-free entertaining.
• Deliciously versatile: You can customize this dish with various herbs and cheese for a personal touch every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather everything you need to make these Best Scalloped Potatoes!

For the Potatoes

• 2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For Layering

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, sliced
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Variations

One of the best things about Best Scalloped Potatoes is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some herbs: Boost flavor by mixing in fresh thyme or rosemary between layers.
• Mix up the cheese: Try using Gruyère or mozzarella for different taste profiles.
• Incorporate veggies: Layer in sautéed onions or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it lighter: Swap half of the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version without sacrificing richness.

How to Make Best Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Greasing your baking dish will ensure that every layer comes out easily, making serving hassle-free later on.

Step 2: Prepare Your Potatoes

Wash and peel the potatoes before slicing them thinly using either a knife or a mandoline. Thin slices help them cook evenly and absorb all that creamy goodness.

Step 3: Mix the Cream Sauce

In a bowl, combine your heavy cream with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This mixture is what brings all those layers together—so don’t skip this step! The flavors meld beautifully as they bake.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Start layering your potato slices in the greased baking dish. Pour some of that luscious cream mixture over each layer and sprinkle with cheddar cheese. This creates pockets of cheesy goodness throughout!

Step 5: Finish with Panko Topping

After you’ve layered everything, top it off with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter. This will give your scalloped potatoes that irresistible golden crust we all love.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover your dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until golden brown on top. The smell alone will have everyone gathering around!

And there you have it—the Best Scalloped Potatoes that are sure to become a staple at your table! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Best Scalloped Potatoes

Making the Best Scalloped Potatoes can be an easy and enjoyable experience with a few simple tricks up your sleeve! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh potatoes and high-quality cheese make a significant difference in flavor and texture. You’ll taste the freshness in every creamy bite!

• Slice potatoes evenly: Thin, uniform slices allow for even cooking and layering. Using a mandoline can help achieve consistent thickness, ensuring all layers cook perfectly together.

• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set. This makes serving easier and enhances the overall texture.

• Experiment with flavors: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary between layers for added depth. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a lovely aroma to your dish.

• Keep it covered initially: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking prevents over-browning while allowing the potatoes to cook through. Remove the foil later for that irresistible golden crust!

How to Serve Best Scalloped Potatoes

Serving Best Scalloped Potatoes is as delightful as making them! With a few creative presentation ideas, you can turn this comforting dish into a stunning centerpiece for any meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich dish.
• Grated cheese: A light dusting of additional grated cheddar on top just before serving can give an extra cheesy finish that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus provide a crunchy contrast while complementing the creamy potatoes.
• Green salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance against the richness of scalloped potatoes.
• Grilled chicken or salmon: These lean proteins provide heartiness without overshadowing the star of the show. Their subtle flavors pair beautifully with creamy sides.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also provides a nutritious element to your meal, making it well-rounded and satisfying.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Best Scalloped Potatoes will steal the spotlight at any gathering! Enjoy creating this warm, inviting dish that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Best Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them ahead of time, making it easier to serve during busy weeknights or special occasions. Here’s how to store and handle your leftovers efficiently:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool entirely.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen scalloped potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the dish with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

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

Can I make Best Scalloped Potatoes in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the scalloped potatoes a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

What type of cheese is best for scalloped potatoes?

While sharp cheddar cheese adds great flavor, you can experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique twist on your Best Scalloped Potatoes.

How do I add more flavor to my scalloped potatoes?

Enhance flavor by adding herbs such as thyme or sautéed onions between layers. You can also sprinkle in some freshly ground black pepper.

Can I use a different type of milk instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter version of Best Scalloped Potatoes, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Just keep in mind that this will alter the creaminess slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give these Best Scalloped Potatoes a try! They truly are a comforting classic that elevates any meal into something special. Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday gathering, I’m confident this dish will bring joy to your table. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts—I’d love to hear how it turns out!