Few dishes evoke warmth and comfort quite like a steaming, cheesy serving of scalloped potatoes. This classic recipe marries thinly sliced golden Yukon potatoes with a velvety sauce made from milk, chicken stock, garlic, and a blend of herbs, all crowned with melted cheddar cheese. Perfectly baked until bubbly and golden, scalloped potatoes are a versatile side that complements a wide range of main courses—from roast chicken and beef to holiday feasts and casual family dinners.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through every step of making these delicious scalloped potatoes, share tips and shortcuts, suggest ingredient swaps and variations, and provide a list of the essential kitchen equipment you’ll need. I’ll also explain how to store any leftovers and recommend food and drink pairings that will elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this comprehensive guide is designed to help you create a scalloped potato dish that’s sure to impress.

Why Scalloped Potatoes Are a Must-Have Comfort Food

Scalloped potatoes are much more than just a side dish—they’re a celebration of textures and flavors that make every meal feel special. Here’s what makes this recipe stand out:

Creamy and Cheesy: The rich sauce, thickened with flour and enhanced by a generous amount of milk and chicken stock, is perfectly balanced with a layer of sharp cheddar cheese that adds a delightful tang.
Layered Perfection: Thinly sliced Yukon potatoes create beautiful layers that absorb the flavors of the sauce, resulting in a harmonious blend of creaminess and subtle crisp edges.
Versatility: This dish works well as a hearty side for roasted meats, as a stand-alone comfort meal, or even as a brunch item when paired with eggs and fresh herbs.
Classic Appeal: With its roots in traditional cooking, scalloped potatoes evoke a sense of nostalgia and home-cooked goodness, making it a favorite for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.

Who Should Try This Recipe?

Home Cooks: Anyone looking for a comforting, impressive side dish that’s easier to prepare than it appears.
Family Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses.
Comfort Food Enthusiasts: Perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something hearty and satisfying.
Entertainers: A delicious addition to holiday menus and dinner parties, guaranteed to win over guests.

Ingredients and Kitchen Equipment

Ingredients

For our Scalloped Potatoes, you’ll need:

2 lbs golden Yukon potatoes, peeled, washed, and sliced into thin rounds
1 ¼ cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
2 tablespoons butter
½ chopped shallot
2 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons flour
½ cup chicken stock
1 ¼ cups milk
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon thyme
Fresh parsley, for garnishing

These ingredients come together to create a rich, savory sauce and perfectly layered potatoes that are both creamy and satisfyingly textured.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start, make sure you have these essential tools:

Oven: Preheated to 400°F.
9×9-inch Baking Dish: Lightly greased to prevent sticking.
Large Pot or Skillet: For cooking the shallots, garlic, and preparing the sauce.
Cutting Board and Knife: For slicing the potatoes, shallot, and garlic.
Peeler: To peel the Yukon potatoes.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out the milk, chicken stock, flour, and spices accurately.
Wooden Spoon or Whisk: For stirring the sauce and ensuring it thickens evenly.
Paper Towels: For patting dry any ingredients as needed.
Aluminum Foil: For covering the baking dish during part of the baking process.
Grater: For freshly grating the cheddar cheese.
Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients if needed.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While the oven warms up, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. This will ensure that your scalloped potatoes release easily once baked and that cleanup is a breeze.

2. Prepare the Potatoes

Peel, wash, and slice 2 lbs of golden Yukon potatoes into thin rounds. Uniform slices are key for even cooking; aim for slices that are about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Arrange about half of these potato slices in an even layer at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This forms the base layer that will soak up the rich sauce.

3. Make the Sauce

In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the ½ chopped shallot and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure it softens without burning. Next, add 2 cloves of garlic (minced) and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring continuously to form a roux. Pour in half of the chicken stock (½ cup) and stir well. Allow the mixture to cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, slowly add 1 ¼ cups of milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Season the sauce with ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for an extra 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens a bit. Remove the skillet from the heat once your sauce reaches the desired consistency.

4. Assemble the Layers

Pour half of the prepared sauce over the layer of potatoes in your baking dish. Then, sprinkle ½ cup of grated cheddar cheese evenly over the sauce. Carefully arrange the remaining potato slices on top, forming another even layer. Pour the rest of the sauce over the top, ensuring the potatoes are well-covered. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. This layering technique helps create a beautiful, cheesy crust during baking.

5. Bake the Scalloped Potatoes

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After this initial baking period, remove the foil to allow the top to brown and become bubbly. Continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden. The final dish should be bubbly, with a rich, creamy consistency throughout.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once your scalloped potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve hot as a comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite main courses.

Notes, Tips, and Recipe Variations

Important Notes:

Consistent Slicing: For even cooking, make sure your potato slices are uniform in thickness.
Avoiding Burnt Shallots: Cook the shallots gently over medium heat and stir frequently to avoid any burnt edges.
Layering is Key: Proper layering ensures that every bite has a perfect balance of potatoes, sauce, and cheese.

Tips and Shortcuts:

Prep in Advance: You can peel and slice the potatoes the night before, storing them in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator. Just be sure to drain and pat them dry before assembling the dish.
Sauce Adjustments: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more milk or chicken stock. Conversely, if it’s too runny, let it reduce a bit longer on the stove.
Cheese Options: While cheddar is traditional in this recipe, you can experiment by mixing in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Herb Variations: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be used in place of dried thyme for an aromatic twist.
Make-Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven.

Recipe Variations:

Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to make the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Extra Creamy: For a richer sauce, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat.
Bacon Infusion: Sprinkle crumbled, crispy bacon between the layers for an added smoky flavor.
Cheesy Crust: Top with a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella and cheddar for an even cheesier finish.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing Leftovers:

If you have any leftovers, let the scalloped potatoes cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, they will keep for up to 3 days. Make sure to label the container with the date so you can enjoy them while they’re still at their best.

Reheating Instructions:

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Transfer the leftovers to an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Stovetop: You can also reheat them in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken stock to loosen the sauce if needed, stirring frequently until heated.
Microwave: For a quick reheat, place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Note that the texture may not be as crispy as when freshly baked.

Food and Drink Pairings

Ideal Food Pairings:

Main Dishes: Scalloped potatoes make an excellent side for roast chicken, beef brisket, or pork tenderloin. Their creamy texture and rich flavor perfectly complement hearty mains.
Salads: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy potatoes.
Vegetable Sides: Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal.
Bread: Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to help mop up any extra sauce.

Beverage Pairings:

White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy nature of scalloped potatoes.
Red Wine: A light red such as Pinot Noir can also work well if you prefer red wine.
Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a twist of lemon can refresh your palate.
Iced Tea: A lightly sweetened iced tea with a sprig of mint is another great accompaniment, especially on cooler evenings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of potato?

A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of potatoes. While Yukon Gold is ideal for its creamy texture and buttery flavor, you can also use red potatoes or even a mix of varieties. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

Q: What if I want a gluten-free version?

A: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it uses flour only in a small amount to thicken the sauce. For extra assurance, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornstarch (use half the amount called for).

Q: How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

A: If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer for a couple of extra minutes on the stove. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more milk or chicken stock until you reach your desired consistency.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and then bake as directed. This can save you valuable time on a busy day.

Q: How do I ensure the potatoes cook evenly?

A: Slice the potatoes as uniformly as possible and arrange them in a single layer in the baking dish. This will help ensure that each slice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

Final Thoughts

Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful side dish that enhances any meal. With this detailed recipe, you now have all the tools and tips needed to create a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a holiday feast, or simply treating yourself to a bit of home-cooked goodness, these scalloped potatoes are sure to delight.

I hope you enjoyed this comprehensive guide to making scalloped potatoes and found the tips, variations, and storage suggestions helpful. If you try out this recipe, please share your experience in the comments below and let me know if you’ve added your own creative twist. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes, expert cooking tips, and culinary inspiration.

Happy cooking, and here’s to many more comforting meals that warm both the heart and the home!

Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Side Dish for Any Occasion