Scalloped Potatoes

Here’s a classic, creamy, and cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe — a comforting side dish perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a hearty dinner.

🥔 Classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

🍽️ Servings: 6–8

⏱️ Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes

(20 min prep + 55 min bake)

🛒 Ingredients:

• 2 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes (about 5–6 medium), peeled and thinly sliced

• 3 tbsp butter

• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream (or more milk for lighter version)

• 1 ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)

• ½ tsp onion powder (optional)

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional — for a cheesy version)

• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

🔪 Instructions:

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

2. Prepare potatoes:

   • Peel and slice potatoes into ⅛-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline.

   • Set aside in cold water to prevent browning while you make the sauce.

3. Make the cream sauce (béchamel):

   • In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

   • Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.

   • Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth.

   • Stir in salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings.

   • Simmer until slightly thickened (about 3–5 minutes), then remove from heat.

   • (Optional: stir in 1 cup of the cheese if making a cheesy version.)

4. Assemble the casserole:

   • Drain and pat the potatoes dry.

   • Layer half the potatoes in the bottom of the dish.

   • Pour half the sauce over the potatoes.

   • Repeat with the remaining potatoes and top with the rest of the sauce.

5. Top & bake:

   • (Optional: sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheese on top for a golden, cheesy crust.)

   • Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

   • Uncover and bake another 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.

6. Rest & serve:

   • Let sit for 10 minutes before serving — this helps the sauce thicken.

🧀 Optional Add-ins:

• Add sliced onions between layers for extra flavor.

• Swap cheddar for Gruyère, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for a more gourmet twist.

• Sprinkle in chopped bacon or ham for a heartier version.

Would you like a make-ahead version or a dairy-free alternative?