Looking for a tasty side dish for your next family dinner? Look no further than this simple and delicious Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. Perfectly creamy and flavorful, your loved ones will be begging for seconds.
The Best Scalloped Potatoes
These delicious Classic Scalloped Potatoes are made easily with sautéed onions and garlic, creamy sauce, fresh herbs, and plenty of salt and fresh ground black pepper. This is, hands down, one of our favorite side dishes. It is easy to make, delicious, reheats well, and goes with almost any main course. They are the perfect side dish for Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas.
If you like smooth and creamy comfort food side dishes, try cauliflower casserole, Irish colcannon, cauliflower au gratin, and baked macaroni and cheese.
Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients
How to make Scalloped Potatoes
Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft. Then reduce the heat to low and add the garlic, cooking for 1 minute while stirring constantly. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes. Slowly add the milk, whisking to combine. Cook over low heat until thickened, whisking frequently. Do not let it boil. Stir in about 2/3 of the thyme and parsley, and all of the cayenne pepper. Season with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.
Layer 1/4 of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of a greased baking dish. Pour 1/4 of the sauce over the top of the potatoes and spread it out with a spoon or spatula. Repeat the layers 3 more times, ending with the cream sauce. Top with the remaining fresh herbs. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for 30-45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is bubbly on the edges. Turn the broiler on for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking to brown the top. Sprinkle with fresh herbs.
Recipe tips
- Yukon gold or Russet Potatoes work well with this recipe.
- Slice the potatoes between 1/8-1/4 inch thick. A mandoline works well for this recipe.
- For optimal flavor, use fresh herbs. But dried herbs can be used in a pinch.
- Add fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper to each layer if you like a lot of seasoning. Or go hog wild and add some Cajun or Creole seasoning.
- To make these into au gratin potatoes, whisk in 2 cups of good quality shredded cheddar to the sauce at the very end over very low heat. As soon as it melts, proceed with the recipe as written.
- Keep an eye on the potatoes when under the broiler. Broilers can be so unpredictable, especially in older ovens. I always set a 1-2 minute timer to avoid getting distracted.
What is the difference between Au Gratin Potatoes and Scalloped Potatoes?
True classic scalloped potatoes do not have cheese in them. They are made with a well-seasoned béchamel sauce. Potatoes au gratin are cheesy potatoes slathered with cheese sauce, usually made with heavy cream and cheeses like sharp cheddar cheese, gruyere, and Parmesan Cheese. It is mixed in at the end of the preparation of the béchamel sauce and then layered with the potatoes in the same manner as scalloped potatoes.
Can you freeze scalloped potatoes?
If freezing the whole casserole, remove it from the oven about 15-20 minutes before being fully cooked. Let the dish fully cool. Then, cover it with two layers of plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Remove from the fridge 30-40 before baking to bring to room temperature. Then, remove the plastic wrap and finish baking at 350 degrees.
If freezing leftovers, let them fully cool first. Then spoon them into sturdy freezer containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave.
What Goes with Scalloped Potatoes
- Chicken – roasted chicken, grilled chicken, Italian chicken, chicken cordon bleu, bacon-wrapped chicken, creamy chicken dijon
- Beef – baked meatloaf, New York strip steak, beef tips and gravy, meatballs and gravy, homemade sloppy joes.
- Pork – grilled pork tenderloin, pan-fried pork chops, smothered pork chops, pork loin roast, baked ham
- Seafood – baked cod, air fryer salmon, grilled shrimp skewers, broiled lobster,
Storage and Reheat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave in the microwave at reduced power so they heat all the way through. For larger portions, reheat in the oven at 300 degrees for 45-60 minutes or until heated through.
If freezing leftovers, let them fully cool first. Then spoon them into sturdy freezer containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave.
More potato recipes
Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic minced
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
- 3 lbs Yukon Gold Potatoes thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9×9 inch or not-deep 2-quart casserole dish.
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft. Then reduce the heat and add the garlic, cooking for 1 minute while stirring constantly.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes. Slowly add the milk whisking to combine. Cook over low heat until thickened, whisking frequently. Do not let it boil.
- Whisk in about 2/3 of the thyme and parsley and all of the cayenne pepper. Season with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.
- Layer 1/4 of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of a greased casserole dish. Pour 1/4 of the sauce over the top of the potatoes and spread it out with a spoon or spatula. Repeat the layers 3 more times ending with the cream sauce. Top with the remaining fresh herbs.
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for 30-45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is bubbly on the edges. Turn the broiler on the last 1-2 minutes of cooking to brown the top. Sprinkle with fresh herbs.
Video
Notes
- Yukon gold or Russet Potatoes work well with this recipe.
- Slice the potatoes between 1/8-1/4 inch thick. A mandoline works really well for this recipe.
- For optimal flavor, use fresh herbs. But dried herbs can be used in a pinch.
- If you like a lot of seasoning, add fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper to each layer. Or go hog wild and add some Cajun or Creole seasoning.
- To make these into au gratin potatoes, whisk in about 2 cups of good quality shredded cheddar to the sauce at the very end over very low heat. As soon as it melts, proceed with the recipe as written.
- Keep an eye on the potatoes when under the broiler. Broilers can be so unpredictable, especially in older ovens. I always set a 1-2 minute timer, so I do not get distracted.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or the oven.
Nutrition
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Lorie
I haven’t tried this recipe but I hope too soon. I’m wondering if you could tell me why the scalloped potatoes I make have so much liquid in them after they have bake the allotted time and the potatoes have done? We love scalloped potatoes but don’t like when they are so watery. Thank you!
Beth Pierce
Maybe it is the recipe you are using. Are you using Yukon Gold potatoes or Russet potatoes?
Joumana
These potates look amazing! Do u rince the potatoes before layering them?
Beth Pierce
No I do not. The added starch helps thicken the sauce in the dish.
April
I completely agree with you! Scalloped potatoes are definitely a classic and delicious side dish that pairs well with various main courses. The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and creamy sauce adds a depth of flavor to the dish, while the fresh herbs provide a refreshing and aromatic element.
I love how versatile scalloped potatoes are and how they can be enjoyed on special occasions like Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas, but also make a delightful addition to any weeknight meal.
Beth Pierce
My thoughts exactly. You summed it up perfectly, April.
Bright
These scalloped potatoes were absolutely delicious. They were the perfect side dish for your grilled ham steaks. Thanks for sharing, Beth! I am keeping this recipe on regular rotation.
Neely Moldovan
Oh my gosh I love scalloped potatoes! These look incredible!
Monica
Hey, your scalloped potatoes recipe is a taste of pure comfort! Tried it last night and the creamy, flavorful layers were a hit with the whole family. Thanks for sharing this delightful dish. Can’t wait to explore more of your kitchen creations! 🥔🍴
Beth Pierce
Thanks Monica! I am so glad that you liked the scalloped potatoes. They are just dreamy!
Mel
This is a family favorite potato recipe. We love to add a little crispy cooked smoked bacon. I served it last weekend with some grilled steaks and your sauteed asparagus recipe. It was a great meal.
May
I am guilty of making boxed scalloped potatoes! I’ll have to think about trying your recipe – they look so good and nothing beats a fresh made meal!
Dana
My grandma used to make scalloped potatoes a lot when I was a kid. This recipe was easy to make and it brings back such good memories, thanks for sharing, Beth.
Edgar
These scalloped potatoes are the best. This is my favorite side dish for my favorite grilled steak recipe. Thanks for sharing, Beth!
Steph
Oh my goodness, I love scalloped potatoes and these are amazing! They go with so many meals and my whole family enjoys the taste.
Ellanor
Honestly, these are amazing! I’m a sucker for any potato-based recipes and I love the addition of herbs like parsley. This recipe is going on my weekly rotation.
Beth Pierce
Thanks, Elanor! I am so glad that you liked the scalloped potatoes recipe.
Rich
The best scalloped potatoes. I love to serve them with grilled chicken and roated pork loin. Thanks for sharing, Beth!
Marianne Spencer
Looks amazing! Always wanted to make scalloped potatoes but I don’t have a mandolin.
Beth Pierce
Just try to slice them thin and uniform.
SONIA SEIVWRIGHT
Oh my goodness, these Classic Scalloped Potatoes are absolutely amazing! They are so creamy and flavorful with just enough herbs and seasoning. I can’t believe how easy they were to make too! This will be one of my go-to side dishes for any occasion. I also love that they reheat well so that I can enjoy them repeatedly. Thank you for sharing this incredible recipe!
Beth Pierce
The pleasure is all mine Sonia!
april
This was so yummy! I love any kind of potato dish! Can’t wait to make this again.
Lesa
Love the simplicity of this recipe. You can make it on any day because you’re likely to always have all the ingredients.
Beth Pierce
Agreed 100%
Ivan Carlo Jose
That looks so delicious! I love potatoes and the combination of butter, milk, and herbs sounds so good. I’m wondering if this will also work with sweet potatoes.
Beth Pierce
Yes it will work for sweet potatoes.
Rose
These scalloped potatoes are so good. My grandma used to make them a couple of times a week. I rarely make them but everyone loves when I do.
Marysa
Homemade scalloped potatoes are the best! I have to be honest, I use the box stuff sometimes because mine don’t come out that great. Your recipe sounds wonderful.
Maria Azanha
Oh my goodness! I´m gonna make it tomorrow. Friday is our baked potato day so I´m making these beauties in the article! Great one!
Crystal
Great scalloped potato recipe. I love taking these to picnics and potato lucks. Everyone rants and raves about them.
Luna S
One of my favorite dishes! Love making this as a way to spice up from having other types of potato dishes.
Stephanie
These were so creamy and delicious! Thanks for sharing – the family loved them.
Katherine
This was such a decadent and delicious side dish!
Beth Pierce
Thanks, Katherine! So glad that you liked the potatoes!
Jess
With simple ingredients and clear instructions, this recipe is a great option for anyone looking to whip up a classic comfort food!
Nikki
These homemade scalloped potatoes were fantastic and they made a perfect side dish for my t-bone steaks. I can’t wait to eat the leftovers for lunch.
Suja md
Delicious yet simple recipe that the whole family loved.
Ali
What a delicious comfort food side dish recipe! Perfect for family gatherings and so easy to make.
Beth Pierce
I agree 100%
Mahy
This is one of the best scalloped potato recipes that I’ve tried to date. Thank you for sharing it!
Beth Pierce
You are most welcome, Mahy!
Kushigalu
LOve potatoes in any form. These look amazingly delicious. Thanks for sharing.
Tara
Such a wonderful and classic use for potatoes! They are so good with the addition of garlic and fresh herbs. Yum!
Sangeetha
The sautéed onions and garlic give such a nice flavor to the creamy sauce, and the fresh herbs add a great touch. I love that it’s such an easy dish to prepare, and it goes well with so many different meals. This is what I make for weeknight dinners when I want something comforting and delicious!!!
Beth Pierce
Me too! I agree 100%
Sue
I an making this receipt for dinner party tonite – do I go ahead and cook this morning or wait and cook later this evening? Thank for your input
Beth Pierce
I would wait till later.
Sue
Sorry i should have been more detailed. Can i put it all together and then let it sit till I’m ready to cook. That way it will be hot for our meal but I can do all the work before and have my kitchen cleaned up.
Beth Pierce
Sorry about the delay in responding. Yes you can prepare it about an hour in advance. That is about as far as I would go with it because of browning potatoes. You could also parbake it.
Hayley Dhanecha
These potatoes were amazing! Everyone in the family came for seconds, so comforting and flavours were so good.
Beth Pierce
Thank you, Hayley!
Lisa K.
I need to double this recipe to serve 12. Do you think a 9×13 pan would work? It looks yummy!
Beth Pierce
I am a little worried that cooking time might take too long because the potatoes are so deep. How many other sides are you serving them with?
Anjali
These potatoes turned out perfectly!! We served them as a side dish for our dinner last night and they went great with a vegetarian “meatloaf” I made!
Beth Pierce
Thanks, Anjali! so glad that you liked them!
TAYLER ROSS
I made these scalloped potatoes with dinner last night and they were incredible! And easy to make too!
Beth Pierce
So happy that you liked them, Tayler!
Nathan
I’m so excited to try this, scalloped potatoes are peak comfort food for me. Love the idea to add some Cajun seasoning as well, I’ll definitely be giving that a shot!
Kathleen
These scalloped potatoes were incredible. My family really loved them. I will make them again.
Shelby
Scalloped potatoes are by far my favorite side dish, and this recipe is simple and spot on!
Beth Pierce
Thanks, Shelby! Enjoy!
Karilynne
This is an excellent recipe. I was so impressed. On a side note I only had 2% milk and I added an extra half cup of flour and it came out beautifully. The Taste is awesome. Thank you this is definitely a comfort food dish.
Beth Pierce
You are most welcome, Karilynne! Thanks for the tip!
Beti
YUM! I am so excited to try this dish!! The flavors are incredible!
katerina
This is such an amazing side dish!! My family loved it very much!!
Jasmine Martin
I absolutely love scalloped potatoes. They look so good and they taste amazing. I’m going to have to make this version of scalloped potatoes this weekend!
Yaya
Scalloped potatoes will always remind me of my childhood as my mom made delicious ones!
Celebrate Woman Today
I like scalloped potatoes, however, I’ve not cooked them for some time. I’ll save this recipe to try it out in my kitchen.
Tammy
Ahh this certainly is easy! I love scalloped potatoes…what a delicious and wonderful side. Great recipe! Thanks for sharing.
Melissa Dixon
This sounds really good. I would love to make this one for my family this weekend. I think it would be a big hit!
Karen
This was so so good! I needed a new potato recipe and this was delicious! Your recipe was very easy to follow. Thank you so much.
Yeah Lifestyle
This makes a really warming and tasty addition to any meal. Especially at this time of year when it is still chilly outside. It was very tasty
Lavanda Michelle
This was so delicious and perfect for a family gathering. Everyone loved it and wanted the recipe. Thanks for sharing!
Samantha Donnelly
These were amazing and so easy to make, they made a great side for a Sunday roast! Everyone enjoyed them.
Catalina
This dish was amazingly delicious! It was perfect for our Sunday dinner!
Erin
We love these potatoes, Beth! Thanks for sharing the recipe.
Sandra
Such an amazing side dish! I will definitely make it again and again!
Beth Pierce
Thanks, Sandra! So glad that you liked the potatoes!
Amanda Batcher
This looks like the perfect side dish to so many meals. Thank you so much for sharing!