Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: Irresistibly Easy Recipe Top 1

If there’s one dish that says comfort food done right, it’s Creamy Scalloped Potatoes. Silky layers of buttery Yukon golds, rich cream sauce infused with garlic and thyme, and that irresistible golden-brown cheese crust—this is the side dish dreams are made of. Whether you’re serving it at Sunday dinner, a holiday feast, or just because you need a little cozy in your life, this recipe never disappoints.

And the best part? It looks fancy, tastes luxurious, but is actually so simple to make. Just slice, simmer, and bake your way to pure creamy perfection.

Why You’ll Love These Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Let’s be honest—scalloped potatoes can make any meal feel a little extra special. Here’s why this version will become your new go-to:

• Set-and-Forget Simplicity: Once it’s in the oven, your work is basically done.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The garlic-thyme-Parmesan combo is a flavor trifecta that wins hearts every time.
• Versatile: Works as a side for roasted meats, ham, or even a salad when you’re craving something hearty.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it early and bake when needed—ideal for holidays or busy weeknights.

This dish has saved me on more than one hectic evening. One time, after a long day of juggling errands and a million little to-dos, I tossed these creamy layers into the oven and let them work their magic. The smell alone brought instant calm—like a warm hug wafting from the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Potatoes:

• 5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/16 inch)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with whole milk or half-and-half)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (plus more for topping)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Potatoes: Yukon golds are the buttery MVP here, but russets will give you an extra soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Cream or Milk: For a lighter take, go with half-and-half or whole milk. Dairy-free? Unsweetened almond milk thickened with a teaspoon of cornstarch works beautifully.
• Cheese: Parmesan gives that savory kick, but Gruyère or cheddar will make it extra rich.
• Garlic: Love garlic? Add more. For a mellow flavor, try roasted garlic.
• Thyme: Fresh herbs elevate the aroma, but dried thyme or rosemary can step in effortlessly.

How To Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1 – Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a ceramic baking dish. Peel and slice your potatoes thinly (a mandoline works wonders here). Even slices mean even cooking!

Step 2 – Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and let it cook for another minute to remove the raw taste. Slowly whisk in the cream (or milk) until the mixture thickens—this takes about 5 minutes. Stir in Parmesan, thyme, salt, and pepper until the sauce is silky smooth.

Step 3 – Coat the Potatoes

Add the sliced potatoes into the pot of sauce. Gently toss until every slice is bathed in creamy goodness. (Yes, it smells heavenly already!)

Step 4 – Layer and Bake

Stack the coated potatoes vertically in your baking dish for that elegant layered look. Pour the remaining sauce over top and sprinkle a little extra Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Step 5 – Cool and Serve

Let your scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before digging in. This helps the sauce thicken slightly, making every bite picture-perfect.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

• Slice evenly: Uneven slices can lead to undercooked or mushy spots.
• Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that affect melting.
• Let it rest: Patience pays off—those 10 minutes make all the difference for that creamy texture.
• Want a golden crust? Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for an extra crispy top.

And if your sauce seems a bit thick? Don’t panic—it’s just extra comfort waiting to happen.

FAQs About Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Bringing It All Together

These Creamy Scalloped Potatoes aren’t just a side dish—they’re the heart of any meal. Creamy, garlicky, and layered with love, they’re the kind of comfort food that brings everyone to the table. So next time you need a dish that delivers both elegance and ease, let your oven work its slow magic and watch these potatoes steal the show.

More Cozy Recipes to Try Next

Looking for the perfect dishes to pair with your Creamy Scalloped Potatoes? These comforting recipes from my kitchen are sure to complete your meal:

• Serve alongside this flavorful Crockpot Beef Stroganoff for a hearty, melt-in-your-mouth dinner combo.
• Add a festive touch to your table with Best Ever Cranberry Sauce —a tangy-sweet balance that complements creamy sides beautifully.
• Make it a holiday spread with Slow Cooker Stuffing, an easy, savory favorite that pairs wonderfully with potatoes.
• Don’t forget dessert! End your meal with a cozy treat like Crockpot Apple Crisp—warm, cinnamon-scented perfection in every bite.

Each of these recipes adds another layer of comfort and flavor to your table, turning an ordinary dinner into a memorable feast.

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