Table of Contents
My grandmother’s kitchen always smelled of melting butter and garlic. As a child, I watched her layer sliced potatoes into a bubbling cream sauce. Today, I recreate those creamy scalloped potatoes with simple ingredients: Yukon gold potatoes, garlic-infused butter, a light flour-thickened cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh thyme. After baking under foil, the dish turns golden, tender, and rich—a classic Dinner Sides favorite at Thanksgiving Dinner or any Good Eats gathering. Serve immediately for the ultimate comfort. This quick, nostalgic recipe brings family together and honors tradition with every cheesy, velvety bite. Enjoy this Holiday Recipes staple year-round.
When I first discovered Creamy Scalloped Potatoes, I couldn’t believe how a handful of pantry staples could transform into a velvety, golden side dish. This dish earns its spot on any Fiesta Party table, yet it shines just as brightly alongside your Thanksgiving Dinner classics. With layers of thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes soaked in a garlic-butter roux, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, it bakes into a bubbly masterpiece that everyone will devour. Whether you’re planning Holiday Recipes or a simple weeknight meal, this Creamy Scalloped Potatoes recipe feels both elegant and approachable. I’ll guide you step-by-step, share smart swaps, and even offer Vegane Rezepte adaptations. Let’s dive in and make your next gathering unforgettable!
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a ceramic baking dish.
- Thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline or sharp knife.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant (1 minute).
- Add flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in cream and cook until thickened (5 minutes).
- Stir in Parmesan, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let sauce cool slightly.
- Toss sliced potatoes with sauce until well coated.
- Arrange potatoes upright in the baking dish. Pour remaining sauce on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake another 30 minutes until golden.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!The Story & Inspiration Behind Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
A Personal Memory
I’ll never forget the first time I tasted my grandmother’s scalloped potatoes at our big Thanksgiving Dinner. She called it her “secret family treasure,” and she prepared it after we carved the turkey. I remember slipping into the warm kitchen as the aroma of garlic and butter beckoned me closer. While the turkey rested, she taught me how to slice Yukon gold potatoes paper-thin on her old mandolin. As we layered each sheet, she told stories of her childhood in a small town where every Fiesta Party required a comforting side. Today, I still feel that sense of connection whenever I bake Creamy Scalloped Potatoes. It reminds me that food isn’t just fuel—it’s history, creativity, and love passed down through generations.
Why This Recipe Matters
This Creamy Scalloped Potatoes recipe matters because it delivers classic comfort with minimal fuss. Unlike heavy casseroles laden with processed ingredients, it relies on simple pantry staples you probably already have. For families juggling busy schedules, it ranks among the easiest Thanksgiving Recipes to pull together, and yet it looks stunning on the table. Moreover, you can tailor it for different diets—swap heavy cream for half and half or plant-based milk to create Vegane Rezepte-friendly dinner sides. If you’re hosting a Fiesta Party or just craving Good Eats at home, this recipe scales up beautifully. Plus, its crowd-pleasing texture makes it a perfect companion for protein mains, Quinoa salads, or roasted vegetables. Ultimately, it proves that Holiday Recipes don’t have to be complicated to impress.
Ingredients & Instructions
Gather these simple ingredients and let’s bring your Creamy Scalloped Potatoes to life. You’ll find a printable table below, followed by step-by-step guidance to ensure a flawless bake.
Ingredients You Need for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced | 5 pounds |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced or pressed | 2 cloves |
| All-purpose flour | 1 tablespoon |
| Heavy cream (or substitute whole milk or half and half) | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (optional) | ½ cup |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 teaspoon |
| Kosher salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease a medium-sized ceramic baking dish with a thin layer of butter.
- Use a mandolin or sharp knife to slice each potato about 1/16th inch thick, ensuring even cooking.
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent browning.
- Gradually pour in heavy cream, whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper until the sauce reaches a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Transfer potato slices into a large bowl. Pour the cream sauce over them, then gently toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange the coated potato slices upright in the greased baking dish. Pour any leftover sauce over the top and sprinkle extra Parmesan, if desired.
- Tent the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, then bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes or until golden brown and tender.
- Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas
Smart Swaps & Variations
If you seek a lighter take, replace heavy cream with half and half or whole milk. For a Vegane Rezepte version, sub plant-based butter and unsweetened soy or oat milk, and swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast. To boost protein, stir in a scoop of cooked quinoa before baking—this twist adds texture and nutrition. You can also layer in thinly sliced sweet potatoes for a vibrant color and subtle sweetness. Spice fans may add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. With these simple swaps, your Creamy Scalloped Potatoes stay versatile and fit any dietary preference.
Serving Suggestions
Present these scalloped potatoes alongside roasted turkey for a classic Thanksgiving Dinner. They also complement grilled chicken, meatloaf, or a hearty Quinoa salad at your next Fiesta Party. Garnish with fresh thyme or chives to add a pop of color. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat gently in the oven or microwave. For easy meal prep, assemble the dish the night before, cover, and refrigerate. The next day, bake as directed—this saves time on busy holiday mornings. Whether you serve it warm or at room temperature, this dish never fails to impress.
Health Benefits of Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Yukon gold potatoes rank high in vitamin C and provide a good dose of dietary fiber. When paired with moderate amounts of dairy, this dish offers calcium and protein, which support bone health and muscle repair. By choosing half and half or low-fat milk, you can reduce saturated fat without sacrificing creaminess. Adding fresh thyme not only enhances flavor but also introduces antioxidants that help combat inflammation. If you incorporate quinoa, you’ll boost the protein profile and add essential amino acids, making it a balanced side for vegetarian mains. Overall, Creamy Scalloped Potatoes can fit within a balanced diet, offering both comfort and nourishment.
Conclusion
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes embody the warmth of family gatherings and the joy of simple ingredients coming together. Whether you prepare them for Thanksgiving Dinner, a Fiesta Party, or a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe adapts to your needs. You’ll love how easily it builds flavor—from the garlic-scented roux to the golden, bubbling cheese topping. Plus, you can tweak it to suit vegan preferences or increase protein with quinoa. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and let this classic side inspire new traditions at your table. Dive into the creamy layers and make every meal truly memorable.
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FAQs About Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon gold?
Yes, you can use russet potatoes. Just note that Yukon golds hold their shape better and offer a naturally creamier texture.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Swap butter for plant-based margarine, heavy cream for unsweetened oat or soy milk, and Parmesan for nutritional yeast. The dish stays rich and satisfying.
Can I assemble the dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Layer and toss the potatoes with sauce, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake according to directions when you’re ready.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in a low oven or microwave until warmed through.
