Rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy, these Best Homemade Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish. Layered with thinly sliced potatoes and smothered in a luscious, garlic-infused cream sauce, each bite melts in your mouth with golden, bubbly perfection.

Perfect for holiday dinners, cozy Sundays, or potlucks that call for a hearty, crowd-pleasing side, these scalloped potatoes feel both rustic and indulgent. Whether you’re serving them beside ham, roast chicken, or a vegetarian main, they always steal the show.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For creamy and tender scalloped potatoes, Yukon Gold potatoes are the gold standard. They strike the perfect balance between starchiness and firmness, which helps them hold their shape without turning to mush. Russet potatoes work well too if you’re aiming for a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture, though they may break down a little more in the oven.

Ingredients for the Best Homemade Scalloped Potatoes

2 1/2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh thyme or chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

How To Make the Best Homemade Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice the potatoes into 1/8-inch thick rounds. Consistency is key for even cooking.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux. Slowly add the milk and cream, whisking constantly until thickened (about 5 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Layer half of the sliced potatoes into the prepared baking dish. Pour half the cream sauce over them and sprinkle with half the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and enhances the flavor.

Serving and Storing Scalloped Potatoes

These scalloped potatoes are incredibly versatile. They pair beautifully with glazed ham, roast turkey, or grilled veggies for a full meal. For a cozy touch, serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh thyme.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick side dish on busy nights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish a day in advance, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature first for more even heating.

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

Scalloped potatoes usually feature a cream sauce, while au gratin includes a cheese layer. This recipe combines the best of both for maximum flavor and texture.

Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?

It’s best to freeze them after baking. Let the dish cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F, covered, until hot.

Can I add other cheeses?

Definitely! Gruyère, mozzarella, or fontina can be mixed in for added depth. Just keep the total cheese amount similar.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Be sure to use whole milk and cream and avoid high heat while making the sauce. A smooth roux and gradual heating help maintain a silky texture.

Want More Potato Side Dish Ideas?

If you love these scalloped potatoes, try these cozy comfort food recipes next:

Funeral Potatoes for a cheesy, crunchy casserole classic.
Mexican Potatoes with bold spices and crispy edges.
Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes for tangy, crispy bites.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts to serve as a main alongside these potatoes.
Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta for a full-on cozy dinner spread.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can always find it again.

And if you make these scalloped potatoes, I want to hear all about it! Did you add bacon or swap the cheese? Maybe layered in caramelized onions? Share your delicious twists in the comments.

Find more daily recipes I share here: Nina Dishes on Pinterest

Best Homemade Scalloped Potatoes

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy, cheesy, and layered with thinly sliced potatoes, this scalloped potatoes dish is the perfect comforting side. It’s made with a rich garlic cream sauce and a golden baked cheese topping—ideal for holidays or weeknight meals alike.