This Scalloped Potatoes recipe is the ultimate creamy, cheesy comfort side dish. Thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes are layered with a rich garlic-thyme cream sauce and plenty of melty cheddar cheese, then baked until tender and golden brown. It’s a classic holiday favorite, but it’s just as perfect for Sunday dinner or cozy family gatherings. With simple ingredients and big flavor, this baked scalloped potatoes recipe is guaranteed to steal the spotlight on any table.
table of contents
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 12
Ingredients List
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for greasing pan)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 4 garlic cloves, grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced ⅛-inch thick
- ½ medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1½ cups grated cheddar cheese
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Knife or mandoline slicer
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2️⃣ Make the Cream Sauce 🧄
In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in milk, then vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Cook 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and lightly coats the back of a spoon.
Remove from heat.
3️⃣ Layer the Potatoes 🥔
Layer half the sliced potatoes evenly in the baking dish.
Top with half the sliced onion.
Pour over half the cream sauce and sprinkle with 1 cup cheddar cheese.
Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, onion, sauce, and finish with ½ cup cheese on top.
4️⃣ Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 35–40 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender and top is golden brown.
5️⃣ Rest & Serve
Let stand at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving (this helps it set beautifully).
Pro Tips
- Thin Slices Matter: Use a mandoline for even ⅛-inch slices.
- Extra Golden Top: Broil 1–2 minutes at the end if needed.
- Make Ahead: Assemble up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
- Cheese Swap: Try Gruyère or Monterey Jack for flavor variation.
Nutrition Table
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 serving | 420 | 18g | 35g | 22g | 4g | 6g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine whole milk, vegetable broth, and minced garlic. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes and sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese.
- Repeat with remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 35–40 minutes until potatoes are tender and top is golden.
- Let rest for 20 minutes before serving to allow sauce to thicken.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Conclusion
This Scalloped Potatoes recipe is creamy, cheesy, and completely irresistible. With simple ingredients and rich flavor, it’s a comforting side dish that belongs on every holiday table and cozy dinner spread.