Name: Scalloped Potatoes with a Twist
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: PT-484943H10M51S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 tbsp all-purpose flour; 3 cups whole milk; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 1/2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Scalloped Potatoes with a Twist: Creamy, Cheesy Comfort 🧀🥔✨

1. Introduction

Indulge in the comforting classic of a scalloped potatoes recipe, elevated with a delightful twist that will tantalize your taste buds. This isn’t just your average potato dish; it’s a culinary experience! Imagine thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes, nestled in a luscious, creamy sauce infused with aromatic herbs, all crowned with a generous layer of nutty Gruyère cheese. This recipe is more than just food; it’s an invitation to warmth and satisfaction. Perfect as a side dish for holidays, impressing your guests at special occasions, or simply brightening up a cozy family dinner, these cheesy scalloped potatoes are guaranteed to steal the show. It’s an easy scalloped potatoes recipe that offers a symphony of flavors and textures, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook looking to refine your skills of want to try a new scalloped potatoes recipe, or a kitchen novice eager to create something delicious, this scalloped potatoes with cream recipe is easy to follow and satisfying, promising a golden, bubbly delight every time. Looking for more dinner inspiration? Check out this Dinner Ideas.

Delicious Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyère cheese and thyme garnish.

2. Ingredients Needed

Before you begin, gather these readily available ingredients. The beauty of this scalloped potatoes recipe lies in its simplicity, relying on fresh, quality ingredients to deliver exceptional flavor.

2.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk (for an extra creamy texture, consider using heavy cream)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded (you can also use a mix of Gruyère and Parmesan for a more complex flavor profile)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish and a touch of freshness)

3. Equipment Required

Having the right tools at your disposal makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious scalloped potato dish.

9×13 inch baking dish
Large saucepan
Whisk
Sharp knife or mandoline for slicing potatoes (a mandoline ensures even slices, which is crucial for uniform cooking)
Measuring cups and spoons

4. Preparation Time

Plan your cooking schedule accordingly. This recipe requires a bit of hands-on time, but the end result is well worth the effort.

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

5. Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to ensure your scalloped potatoes come out perfectly every time. Each step is designed to guide you through the process, making it easy to create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. Are you looking for more recipe ideas? Check out some Main Dishes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in the prepared dish, overlapping slightly. Overlapping the potatoes creates layers of creamy goodness, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Preparing sliced potatoes in baking dish for Scalloped Potatoes recipe.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This roux is the foundation of your creamy sauce, so be sure to cook it until it’s lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and ground nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the potatoes in the baking dish, making sure all the potatoes are nicely covered.

Creamy garlic herb sauce being poured over Scalloped Potatoes.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes and cream sauce. This will create a beautiful, golden crust as it bakes, adding a nutty and savory element to the dish. Don’t be shy with the cheese – it’s what makes this scalloped potatoes recipe so irresistible!

Gruyère cheese topping for a dish of Scalloped Potatoes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the potatoes to steam and become tender. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it – you want the cheese to be golden brown, but not burnt. Let the scalloped potatoes recipe rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If you’re in the mood for something different, why not try this cabbage roll casserole?

Scalloped Potatoes with foil being placed in the oven.

6. Tips and Tricks for the Best Scalloped Potatoes

Elevate your scalloped potatoes game with these simple yet effective tips and tricks. These insights will help you achieve the perfect texture, flavor, and presentation every time.

Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife to ensure the potatoes are sliced evenly for uniform cooking. Evenly sliced potatoes cook at the same rate, preventing some slices from being undercooked while others are overcooked.
For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of whole milk. Heavy cream adds a luxurious richness to the sauce that is simply divine.
Add a bay leaf to the cream sauce for extra aroma; remove before pouring over the potatoes. A bay leaf infuses the sauce with a subtle, herbaceous note that complements the other flavors beautifully.
If the top is browning too quickly, cover with foil for the last part of the baking time. This prevents the cheese from burning while allowing the potatoes to continue cooking.
Let the dish rest for at least 10 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. This resting period is crucial for achieving the perfect creamy consistency.

7. Serving Suggestions

These cheesy scalloped potatoes make an excellent side dish for a variety of main courses. They pair perfectly with roasted chicken, baked ham, grilled steak, or even vegetarian dishes like lentil loaf. Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. The creamy, rich flavor of the scalloped potatoes recipe complements almost any main course, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option. Need something to make for breakfast tomorrow? Try these Ultimate Pancake Board!

8. Nutritional Information (per serving)

Stay informed about the nutritional content of your meal. This information helps you make informed choices about your diet and maintain a balanced approach to eating.

Calories: 350
Protein: 15g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g

*Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

9. Conclusion

This scalloped potatoes with a cream recipe offers a modern twist on a beloved classic, delivering a dish that is both comforting and elegant. The combination of tender potatoes, a creamy, flavorful sauce, and a golden, cheesy crust makes it an unforgettable addition to any table. Whether you’re looking for an easy scalloped potatoes recipe for a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to delight. Enjoy the process of creating these scalloped potatoes recipe and savor every delicious bite! If you loved this, then you should also try Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes.