🥔 Classic Scalloped Potatoes – Creamy, Cheesy Thanksgiving Side
Imagine a Thanksgiving table without the creamy, cheesy goodness of scalloped potatoes. It's a staple side dish that brings warmth and comfort to the holiday. With its rich, velvety sauce and layers of tender potatoes, this classic recipe never goes out of style. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this simple yet indulgent side dish is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients
- 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 3: Assemble and Bake In the prepared baking dish, create a layer of potatoes. You can slightly overlap them. Pour some of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, making sure they're all coated. Repeat this process, alternating layers of potatoes and cheese sauce, ending with a layer of cheese sauce on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Easy to Prepare
This recipe is straightforward and simple, requiring basic ingredients and kitchen tools. The steps are easy to follow, making it perfect for cooks of all levels.
💰 Budget-Friendly
Using potatoes, cheese, and basic pantry items, this dish is an affordable addition to any meal, especially for large gatherings like Thanksgiving.
👥 Crowd-Pleasing
Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food that appeals to a wide range of tastes and ages. It's an excellent side dish for family gatherings and holidays.
🌟 Versatile
You can easily customize this recipe by adding other ingredients such as diced ham, bacon, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Recipe Card
Classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Creamy, cheesy, and indulgent.
🛒 Ingredients
- 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
💡 Use a high-quality baking dish for even cooking.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
💡 Whisk constantly when adding milk to prevent lumps.
Assemble and Bake: In the prepared baking dish, create a layer of potatoes. You can slightly overlap them. Pour some of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, making sure they're all coated. Repeat this process, alternating layers of potatoes and cheese sauce, ending with a layer of cheese sauce on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
💡 Check the potatoes for tenderness by inserting a fork.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Potatoes
Choose high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho for the fluffiest results. You can also use Yukon Gold for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Substitutions: Sweet potatoes can be used for a different twist, but adjust cooking time as they cook faster.
Cheese
For an extra creamy sauce, use a combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese. You can also add mozzarella or provolone for a melted, stretchy effect.
Substitutions: Vegan cheese alternatives work well for dairy-free diets.
Butter and Flour
Butter adds richness, and flour helps thicken the sauce. For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour.
Substitutions: Coconut oil or olive oil can replace butter for a lighter option.
Milk
Whole milk provides the creamiest result, but you can use low-fat or non-dairy milk alternatives like almond or soy milk for a lighter version.
Substitutions: Cream can be used for an even richer sauce, but reduce the amount to avoid overwhelming the dish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes
🔥 Temperature Control
Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even cooking. Invest in an oven thermometer for accuracy.
🥔 Potato Selection
High-starch potatoes yield the best results. If using other types, adjust cooking time accordingly.
🧀 Cheese Combination
Experiment with different cheese combinations for unique flavors. Parmesan and cheddar are classics, but mozzarella and feta can add interesting twists.
👩🍳 Presentation Matters
For a beautiful presentation, top with additional grated cheese and parsley before serving. It adds color and freshness to the dish.
Variations & Customizations
Bacon and Chive Scalloped Potatoes
Add crumbled bacon and chopped chives to the cheese sauce for a smoky, savory flavor.
Garlic and Rosemary Scalloped Potatoes
Infuse the cheese sauce with minced garlic and chopped rosemary for a Mediterranean twist.
Broccoli and Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
Mix steamed broccoli florets into the cheese sauce for added nutrition and color.
Spicy Scalloped Potatoes
Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roasted Turkey: The classic combination for Thanksgiving.
- Green Bean Casserole: A traditional pairing that complements the creamy potatoes.
- Cranberry Sauce: The sweet and tangy flavor cuts through the richness of the dish.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
A dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, pairs well with the rich flavors of scalloped potatoes.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble the scalloped potatoes up to a day in advance, but do not bake. Store in the refrigerator overnight and bake when ready.
Refrigerator Storage
Cool the baked scalloped potatoes to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Freezer Storage
After baking, let the scalloped potatoes cool, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat scalloped potatoes in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why are my scalloped potatoes too runny?
A: This could be due to too much milk in the cheese sauce or not cooking the sauce long enough. Try simmering the sauce a bit longer to thicken it before using.
Q: Can I make scalloped potatoes in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can assemble the scalloped potatoes in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours. Check for tenderness and adjust cooking time as needed.
Q: How do I prevent the top layer of potatoes from burning?
A: Cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes of baking to prevent the top from burning. Remove the foil for the remaining baking time to get a golden brown top.
Final Thoughts
Scalloped potatoes are a timeless classic that never fails to impress. Whether you're hosting a large gathering or a small family dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe book. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and easy preparation, it's the perfect side dish to complement your meals. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comfort and delight it brings to your table.
Happy cooking, and don't forget to share your scalloped potato creations with us!
