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From my grandmother’s kitchen to my own table, cooking always felt like magic. I’m Catherine, the heart behind Simply Taster, and for me, food builds memories. Today’s quick recipe highlights my Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: thinly sliced Yukon golds baked in a garlic-butter cream sauce with Parmesan and thyme. First, you melt butter with garlic, whisk in flour, then stir in cream until thick. Next, you toss potato slices in the sauce, stack them upright in a greased dish, and bake covered for 30 minutes before uncovering to golden perfection. Finally, let them rest, then serve as a cozy Dinner Side. Enjoy!
Comfort food often brings families together, and nothing does that better than Creamy Scalloped Potatoes. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight meal, a grand Thanksgiving Dinner, or even a casual Fiesta Party, this classic side will steal the show. These scalloped potatoes feature layers of thinly sliced Yukon golds enveloped in a garlic-butter roux, enriched with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. You’ll find that each bite offers a velvety texture plus a hint of fresh thyme. Moreover, this dish pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, grilled steak, or a simple green salad. It delivers on flavor and comforting vibes while fitting seamlessly into Holiday Recipes or everyday Good Eats moments. Most importantly, you can easily adapt it with plant-based milk for vegane rezepte or swap in half-and-half for a lighter finish. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and let’s make something memorable. Your kitchen will smell irresistible, and your guests will ask for seconds.
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F and lightly grease a medium ceramic baking dish.
- Using a mandolin or sharp knife, slice Yukon gold potatoes thinly (about 1/16th inch thick).
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in flour to make a roux and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking until sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place sliced potatoes in a large bowl. Pour sauce over and toss to coat evenly.
- Stack coated potato slices upright in the greased dish. Pour remaining sauce over the top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for another 30 minutes until top is golden and potatoes are tender.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra thyme if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!The Story & Inspiration Behind Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
A Personal Memory
When I was six, I watched my grandmother layer potatoes and cream in her old ceramic dish. She hummed as she seasoned each layer with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme from her garden. Back then, I didn’t know the word “scalloped,” but I knew the excitement of first bite. It melted in my mouth like a warm hug, transporting me into a world where simple ingredients felt gourmet. Today, I recreate that childhood wonder every time I whisk butter, garlic, and flour into a velvety sauce for my Creamy Scalloped Potatoes.
Why This Recipe Matters
This scalloped potatoes recipe stands out because it balances richness with comfort. First, Yukon gold potatoes bring a buttery note, which means you don’t need extra fats to boost flavor. Then, a garlic-butter roux adds depth, while Parmesan cheese lends a subtle nuttiness. Next, fresh thyme introduces an herby brightness that lifts the dish. As a result, these Creamy Scalloped Potatoes become the ultimate Dinner Side, perfect for a relaxed Sunday supper or a festive Thanksgiving Dinner. Additionally, you can make it ahead and reheat without losing texture, making it ideal for holiday entertaining and busy weeknights alike.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients You Need for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yukon gold potatoes | 5 pounds |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced or pressed | 2 cloves |
| All-purpose flour | 1 tablespoon |
| Heavy cream (or whole milk/half-and-half) | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (optional) | ½ cup |
| Fresh thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Kosher salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F, then lightly grease a medium ceramic baking dish.
- Using a mandolin or sharp knife, slice potatoes as thinly as possible (about 1/16th inch).
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in flour to form a roux; cook for 1–2 minutes, whisking constantly.
- Gradually pour in heavy cream, whisking until sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove pot from heat; stir in Parmesan, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Place sliced potatoes in a large bowl; pour sauce over them and toss gently to coat.
- Stack potato slices upright in the greased dish; pour leftover sauce on top.
- Tent dish with foil; bake covered for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil; bake another 30 minutes until golden brown and potatoes feel tender.
- Let dish cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra thyme if desired.
Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas
Smart Swaps & Variations
If you want a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream. For a plant-based twist, use unsweetened almond milk and vegan butter under vegane rezepte guidelines. You can also add a layer of sautéed onions or leeks for extra flavor. To make this low-carb, swap potatoes with thinly sliced turnips or cauliflower florets. For a protein boost, serve alongside quinoa or roasted chickpeas. Meanwhile, if you crave spice, stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne. These adjustments ensure your Creamy Scalloped Potatoes fit various diets without sacrificing taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your scalloped potatoes hot as a standout Dinner Side. They complement roasted turkey and gravy in Thanksgiving Recipes or pair beautifully with grilled meats for a casual Fiesta Party. For meal prep, bake the dish, cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Leftovers also work in breakfast casseroles: layer with eggs and spinach, then bake until set. Finally, store any extra sauce separately and reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain that silky texture.
Health Benefits of Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Yukon gold potatoes deliver vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, which support immune health and digestion. When you keep the skins on, you maximize fiber intake and nutrients. Meanwhile, using moderate amounts of butter and cream provides healthy fats that improve vitamin absorption and satiety. Parmesan cheese adds protein and calcium, promoting bone health. For a lighter dish, swap heavy cream with dairy alternatives, which can reduce saturated fat and calories. Overall, this balanced side complements protein sources like turkey or chicken, fitting into a varied diet. Paired with a fresh salad, you achieve a well-rounded plate. Plus, making this ahead lets you control portions, helping you maintain mindful eating during busy Holiday Recipes or Fiesta Party menus.
Conclusion
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes will become your go-to Dinner Side whenever you crave comfort and ease. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich creaminess and herb-infused brightness. Since you can adapt it for vegane rezepte, low-carb swaps, or meal-prep plans, it truly fits every occasion—from a casual weeknight to a grand Thanksgiving Dinner or intimate Holiday Recipes gathering. Moreover, its make-ahead convenience frees you to focus on main dishes and quality time with loved ones. So gather your potatoes, cream, and seasonings, then dive into simple steps for maximum flavor. I hope these Creamy Scalloped Potatoes bring warmth and Good Eats vibes to your table.
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FAQs About Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–10 extra minutes to the covered baking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat covered at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
You can freeze the baked dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
What can I serve with scalloped potatoes?
They pair well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, salmon, or even a chickpea-quinoa salad for a balanced meal.
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