Scalloped Potatoes

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Deliciously creamy and cheesy scalloped potatoes make for the perfect side dish for any meal.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-29T18:43:55.415Z

Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dining table. With layers of tender potatoes, rich cream, and melted cheese, this dish is loved by many.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy and cheesy layers that are irresistible
  • Perfectly tender potatoes that melt in your mouth
  • A comforting dish that pairs well with any main course
  • Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser

The Perfect Side Dish

Scalloped potatoes are a timeless classic that elevate any meal, from holiday dinners to weeknight family gatherings. Their creamy texture and cheesy goodness create a delightful contrast to savory main courses like roasted chicken, beef, or grilled fish. This dish not only complements your meal but also serves as a comforting and satisfying option that everyone will love.

Whether you're serving a special occasion or just a casual dinner at home, scalloped potatoes bring warmth and heart to the table. They are often a favorite among both children and adults, making them an ideal choice for gatherings where diverse tastes need to be accommodated.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of scalloped potatoes is their versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For an extra kick, consider adding ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even spinach for a pop of color and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or gouda, to create a unique twist on this classic dish.

If you're looking for a lighter version, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative. This way, you can enjoy the creamy richness without the extra calories, making it suitable for those who are health-conscious but still want to indulge.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Scalloped potatoes are an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts. You can prepare the dish ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and simply bake it when you're ready to serve. This not only saves you time on busy days but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious dish.

To reheat, just pop the scalloped potatoes back in the oven until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for a quick meal later on. Just ensure that you store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your scalloped potatoes:

Ingredients

  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the baking dish

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious scalloped potatoes:

Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

Layer the Potatoes

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle with half of the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Add Cream and Cheese

Pour half of the heavy cream over the potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Repeat Layers

Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg, cream, and cheeses.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy scalloped potatoes!

Now that you've made your scalloped potatoes, it's time to serve and enjoy!

Storage Tips

Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality of your scalloped potatoes. If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they can last for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore some moisture and prevent the dish from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing your scalloped potatoes. Make sure they are in a freezer-safe container and consumed within 2-3 months for the best flavor and texture. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Scalloped potatoes are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Pair them with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast, or serve alongside grilled vegetables for a colorful plate. They also complement rich meats beautifully, making them a staple at holiday dinners or special occasions.

For a gourmet touch, consider garnishing your scalloped potatoes with fresh herbs like chives or parsley just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor, making the dish even more appealing.

Nutritional Information

While scalloped potatoes are a delicious indulgence, it's helpful to be aware of their nutritional content. A typical serving can be high in calories and fat, primarily due to the heavy cream and cheese. However, they also provide essential nutrients like potassium from the potatoes and protein from the cheese.

To make this dish a bit healthier, you can adjust the portion sizes or incorporate more vegetables into the layers. This way, you can enjoy the comforting flavors without overindulging. Always remember to balance your meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What type of potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well and have a great texture when baked.

→ Can I use low-fat cream instead of heavy cream?

While you can use low-fat cream, it may result in a less creamy texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftover scalloped potatoes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Scalloped Potatoes

Deliciously creamy and cheesy scalloped potatoes make for the perfect side dish for any meal.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration60 minutes
Overall Time80 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 6 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  2. 2 cups heavy cream
  3. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  4. 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1 teaspoon salt
  7. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  8. 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  9. 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the baking dish

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 02

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle with half of the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Step 03

Pour half of the heavy cream over the potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Step 04

Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg, cream, and cheeses.

Step 05

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 06

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy scalloped potatoes!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 6g