Name: Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter; 1 large onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth); ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp pepper; 3 pounds white potatoes, thinly sliced (about ¼ inch thick); Additional salt and pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I’m drawn to this recipe because of its beautifully balanced creamy sauce infused with sautéed onions and garlic, which gives the dish depth without overpowering the natural sweetness of the potatoes. The slow baking ensures the potatoes become perfectly tender, soaking up all that flavor, while the option to broil adds a golden, crisp finish on top. It’s a timeless side dish that never disappoints.

Ingredients

(Herе’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup butter
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
3 pounds white potatoes, thinly sliced (about ¼ inch thick)
Additional salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Sauce:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing for about 3 minutes until softened.

Stir in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Lower the heat and slowly whisk in the milk and broth. Increase the heat slightly while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and begins to boil.

Season with salt and pepper. Boil for an additional minute to fully thicken the sauce.

Assemble the Dish:

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the dish. Season with salt and pepper.

Pour half of the sauce over the potatoes.

Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes and sauce.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 35 to 45 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

(Optional) Broil for 3 to 4 minutes for a crisp, browned top.

Rest and Serve:

Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 15 minutes before serving to set and cool slightly.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 6 to 8 people. Preparation takes roughly 20 minutes, with baking time totaling around 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add shredded cheddar cheese between the layers for a cheesy scalloped potato twist. For extra flavor, sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon bits can be layered in as well. Using sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes gives a sweeter, earthier flavor. For a vegetarian version, I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover scalloped potatoes store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. I reheat portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven until heated through, adding a little milk if the sauce seems thickened.

FAQs

Can I prepare scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

What type of potatoes work best?

I prefer starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for their creaminess and ability to absorb flavors.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use dairy-free milk and broth alternatives.

How do I prevent the potatoes from being mushy?

Slice the potatoes evenly about ¼ inch thick and avoid overbaking. Keeping the foil on during the first half of baking helps retain moisture.

Can I add cheese?

Absolutely! Adding cheese is a popular variation—try cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan for delicious results.

Conclusion

I find Creamy Scalloped Potatoes to be a comforting and elegant side that pairs well with a variety of main dishes. The tender layers soaked in flavorful sauce and baked to golden perfection make it a recipe I return to whenever I want a warm, satisfying dish that feels like a special treat.

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes