Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish, loved for their rich, velvety texture and deep, savory flavor. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a luxurious cream sauce, often enhanced with garlic, onions, and cheese, resulting in a dish that’s indulgent yet simple. Whether served at holiday dinners, Sunday roasts, or casual family meals, scalloped potatoes bring warmth and heartiness to the table.
The magic of scalloped potatoes lies in their ability to transform humble ingredients into something elegant and deeply satisfying. The key is in the slicing—using uniformly thin potatoes ensures even cooking and a beautifully layered presentation. As they bake, the potatoes soak up the creamy sauce, becoming tender and flavorful while maintaining just enough structure to hold their shape. The top develops a golden, slightly crisp layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior.
This dish is versatile enough to pair with everything from baked ham and roasted chicken to grilled vegetables or hearty salads. It’s a popular addition to festive meals like Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas, but it’s just as welcome at a laid-back dinner on a cold evening. The creamy richness makes it especially comforting during the colder months, when warm, oven-baked dishes offer a sense of coziness and nostalgia.
You can customize scalloped potatoes by adding your favorite cheese—Gruyère and sharp cheddar are popular choices—or incorporating extras like caramelized onions, leeks, or fresh herbs for added depth. For a more rustic twist, a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of nutmeg can complement the creaminess and enhance the flavor.
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are a dish that brings people together. They’re familiar and indulgent, the kind of recipe passed down through generations and brought to potlucks with pride. Their creamy layers and irresistible aroma make them a crowd-pleasing favorite that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes about 4 large potatoes
- 2 cups half-and-half cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch or similar-sized baking dish with butter.
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes into the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the half-and-half cream, flour, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Pour half of the creamy mixture over the potatoes in the dish.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Layer the remaining potato slices over the cheese and pour the remaining creamy mixture on top.
- Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is lightly browned.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
I don’t know about this recipe. It seems too rich with that much cream. I think I would prefer it with milk instead. Has anyone tried to substitute?
This was so delicious! Creamy and cheesy, just like I love it. Definitely going into my favorites!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! It’s definitely a family favorite at our house too.
These potatoes are to die for! So creamy and cheesy. Definitely a crowd-pleaser.
I don’t get why people love this recipe. It felt too heavy for me. More of a side for a family gathering, not something I’d make regularly.
But it’s cheesy and creamy! Can’t resist that. Maybe just serve smaller portions?
I totally get what you mean! It can feel really rich. I usually save it for special occasions too. 🤷♀️
It was okay, but mine turned out kinda soupy. Not sure if I did something wrong.
Where’s the garlic? Garlic would make this dish so much better! Just saying!
Too much cream! Next time, I’ll use less. Plus, why onion powder? Seems weird.
Delish! I swapped half-and-half for almond milk, still turned out great!
Wow, almond milk? That’s interesting! I’ve never thought of that. I usually use heavy cream. Might give it a try!
I thought this was gonna be an easy dish, but it took way too long. 30 min extra baking was a joke.
These taste just like my grandma’s! Brings back memories. I added some bacon bits tho.
Kinda bland for my taste. Maybe try adding some herbs next time.
I can see where you’re coming from! Maybe some rosemary or thyme would really kick it up a notch. 😋
Bland is like, the opposite of what potatoes should be, right? Maybe add bacon bits or something too!
So cheesy! Perfect for winter holidays. My kids couldn’t get enough!
OMG this was sooo good! Best scalloped potatoes ever. I’m definitely making it again!
More job than I thought, but worth it! Not too shabby!
It’s definitely a labor of love! But the end result is so delicious, right? 😋
I followed the recipe, but it turned out too watery. Maybe I shouldn’t have added so much cream?
I had the same issue! I think the cream can make it too rich if there’s too much. Next time, maybe use a little less or try adding a thickener like cornstarch.
Ugh, watery is the worst! Cream is tricky sometimes. I just usually go with whole milk instead and it’s been fine. Good luck with your next try!
I don’t like cheese that much. Can I just remove it and still make it? Thx!
I dunno, seems like the cheese is kinda important for this dish. Are you sure you wanna skip it?
You can definitely try making it without cheese! Just adjust the cream a bit so it doesn’t dry out. Good luck!
Potatoes are the best! Can’t go wrong. 🙂
These scalloped potatoes were amazing! So creamy and cheesy, my family loved them.
Delicious! I swapped cheddar for mozzarella coz I had it, still yum!
Sounds great! I love that you made it your own. Mozzarella is a good choice too!
Looks easy, but where do I get half-and-half? I only saw full cream.