Quick Scalloped Potatoes Recipe: Comfort in Every Creamy Bite! 🥔🧀✨

1. Introduction

Looking for a comforting side dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than this quick scalloped potatoes recipe! Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this dish combines thinly sliced potatoes with a creamy sauce and a golden, cheesy topping. It’s simpler than you might think, transforming humble ingredients into a culinary delight that everyone will love. The best part? cleanup is a breeze! Consider pairing this savory dish with other delicious options from our main dishes category. Whether you call them creamy scalloped potatoes or simply a quick potato recipe, this version is designed to be hassle-free, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

Finished quick scalloped potatoes with melted cheese and parsley garnish.

This easy scalloped potatoes recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on simplicity and flavor, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. If you’re looking for inspiration for other dinner options, be sure to check out our dinner ideas section for more mouthwatering suggestions. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into making the most delectable, simple scalloped potatoes you’ve ever tasted! You might even like these better than this scalloped potatoes recipe!

2. What Makes This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Special?

This recipe for easy scalloped potatoes stands out because it streamlines the traditional cooking process without sacrificing flavor or texture. Here’s what makes it special:

Speed: Unlike some recipes that require extensive prep time, this quick potato recipe is designed to be ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Simplicity: With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can make these simple scalloped potatoes. Even beginner cooks will find this recipe a breeze!
Creamy Texture: The key to achieving the perfect creamy consistency is using heavy cream, which envelops the potatoes in a rich and luscious sauce. This creates a truly decadent side dish.
Cheesy Goodness: A generous layer of cheddar cheese on top creates a golden, bubbly crust that adds both flavor and visual appeal to these creamy scalloped potatoes. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses too!
Versatility: This recipe can be easily customized with your favorite seasonings or additions, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.

Looking for a complete meal idea? These scalloped potatoes would pair wonderfully with our Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers!

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delectable quick scalloped potatoes recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

These simple ingredients combine to create the magic of easy scalloped potatoes. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking for a personalized touch! For instance, a little smoked paprika can add a wonderful depth of flavor. If you are looking for a lighter fair for breakfast, try our breakfast and brunch recipes.

4. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect simple scalloped potatoes:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer at the bottom of the dish. Make sure the potato slices are overlapping slightly for even cooking.

Sliced potatoes being arranged in a baking dish for a quick scalloped potatoes recipe.

Step 2: Add Cream and Seasoning

In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour half of the cream mixture evenly over the potatoes in the dish. Ensure that the cream evenly coats the potatoes for a delicious, creamy result.

Heavy cream being poured over potatoes in baking dish for quick scalloped potatoes.

Step 3: Layer with Cheese and Repeat

Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the cream-covered potatoes. Arrange the remaining potato slices in an even layer on top of the cheese. Pour the remaining cream mixture over the potatoes and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.

Cheddar cheese being sprinkled on cream-covered potatoes for scalloped potatoes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Dot the top with small pieces of butter. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The butter adds a lovely richness and helps the cheese brown beautifully. For dessert, you might enjoy oatmeal raisin cookie bars!

Baking dish with quick scalloped potatoes being placed in the oven.

5. Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes

To ensure your creamy scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Slice Potatoes Thinly: Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly. This ensures they cook uniformly and absorb the creamy sauce properly. Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick.
Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a naturally creamy texture and hold their shape well during cooking, making them ideal for this dish. Russet potatoes can also be used, but they may require a bit more cream.
Don’t Skip the Cheese: The cheddar cheese adds a delightful flavor and a golden crust. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for a unique twist. A blend of cheeses can also be delicious!
Cover with Foil Initially: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps the potatoes cook evenly without the cheese browning too quickly. This ensures that the potatoes are fully cooked before the cheese gets too dark.
Let it Rest: Allow the easy scalloped potatoes to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken and the flavors meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish. Consider these when making our homemade tortillas too!

If you’re in the mood for more comfort food, you might also enjoy our Cabbage Roll Casserole.

6. Variations and Additions

Want to customize your quick scalloped potatoes recipe? Here are a few ideas:

Add Ham or Bacon: Dice cooked ham or bacon and layer it between the potatoes for a heartier dish. This adds a smoky and savory element to the creamy potatoes.
Include Onions: Sauté thinly sliced onions until softened and layer them with the potatoes for added flavor. Caramelized onions would also be a fantastic addition!
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cream mixture for a little heat. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preference.
Use Different Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley can add a delightful aroma and flavor to your simple scalloped potatoes. Sprinkle the herbs on top before baking or stir them into the cream mixture.
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of heavy cream for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. If you like, bake some fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes.

These additions can elevate your scalloped potatoes to a whole new level of deliciousness!

7. Serving Suggestions

These easy scalloped potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few serving suggestions:

Roasted Chicken: The creamy potatoes complement the savory flavors of roasted chicken perfectly. A classic and comforting combination.
Grilled Steak: Serve alongside a juicy grilled steak for a classic and satisfying meal. The richness of the potatoes balances the savory steak beautifully.
Pork Loin: These creamy scalloped potatoes are an excellent accompaniment to a tender pork loin. Add a side of green beans for a complete and balanced meal.
Vegetarian Main Dishes: Pair with vegetarian options like lentil loaf or stuffed bell peppers for a well-rounded meal. The creamy potatoes add richness and flavor to vegetarian dishes. While you’re at it, take a stab at our sweet hawaiian crock pot chicken.

No matter what you choose to serve them with, these scalloped potatoes are sure to be a hit!

8. Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftover quick scalloped potatoes, here’s how to store and reheat them:

Storage: Allow the potatoes to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Properly stored, they will maintain their flavor and texture.
Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scalloped potatoes in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can become dry. For a different cooking experience, try the ultimate pancake board!

Enjoy your leftover scalloped potatoes as a delicious and convenient meal!

9. Conclusion

This quick scalloped potatoes recipe is a winner for its simplicity, speed, and satisfying flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and adapt to your tastes. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of these easy scalloped potatoes as a delightful addition to any meal. With this simple scalloped potatoes recipe in your repertoire, you’re always just a few steps away from a comforting and delicious side dish! So, go ahead and try this quick potato recipe and bring a touch of warmth and flavor to your table. Your family and friends will thank you for it!