If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Tender, thinly sliced potatoes layered with sweet onions and smothered in a luscious, homemade creamy sauce come together to create a dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe brings classic flavors with a velvety touch everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture, making the final dish rich and soulful without any complicated steps or unusual items.
- Cooking spray: For greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- 5-6 cups thinly sliced potatoes: The star of the dish, sliced thin for even cooking and creamy consistency.
- 2 cups thinly sliced onions: Adds a mild sweetness and depth that balances the richness of the sauce.
- 3 cups whole milk: The base of the creamy sauce, providing richness and moisture.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce so it clings beautifully to the potatoes.
- 3 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons every layer perfectly.
- 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that complements the creaminess.
- 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese (optional): For a sharp, tangy finish and a golden crust.
How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray so the potatoes don’t stick, and you’ll get that perfect crust where the potatoes meet the dish.
Step 2: Layer Potatoes and Onions
Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of your prepared dish. Sprinkle half of the onions over the potatoes, then season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Repeat this layering process with the remaining potatoes and onions. Finish with a final layer of potatoes, seasoning them with the remaining salt and pepper. This layering builds a wonderful balance of flavors in every bite.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the flour and whole milk until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered potatoes and onions, making sure to add enough milk so the potatoes are almost covered. This step ensures every slice gets wrapped in silky creaminess that makes this scalloped potatoes recipe truly dreamy.
Step 4: Add Cheese (Optional)
If you’re a fan of a little cheesy punch, sprinkle the top with grated Romano cheese. It melts into the sauce and forms a golden, slightly crispy top layer that adds a beautiful texture contrast.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish uncovered in the oven and bake for about 1 hour. During this time, the sauce thickens and bubbles, the potatoes become tender, and the top develops a golden brown, irresistible crust. The kitchen will smell incredible, making it hard to wait!
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once baked, let the creamy scalloped potatoes sit for 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the sauce settle so the slices cut neatly and each portion holds together beautifully on your plate.
How to Serve Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top bring a pop of color and a hint of freshness, cutting through the richness and elevating the presentation. For an extra layer of texture, a light dusting of smoked paprika or a few crispy fried onions on top works wonders.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe makes an ideal companion to roasted meats such as chicken, beef, or pork. Pairing it with something green and crisp, like steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad, balances the meal perfectly and adds brightness to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled until bubbly. Or try layering in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic charm that browns beautifully all around. No matter the presentation, this dish will steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover creamy scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for about 3 to 4 days and maintain their flavor and texture beautifully.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the creamy texture intact without becoming watery.
Reheating
For reheating, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. This method helps restore the creamy texture and reheats evenly without drying out the potatoes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk for this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe?
Absolutely! While whole milk gives you the richest flavor and texture, you can use 2% or even a mix of milk and cream. Just keep in mind that lower-fat options might result in a slightly less creamy sauce.
Are there any good substitutes for Romano cheese in this recipe?
Yes, Parmesan cheese works beautifully as an alternative. It offers a similar salty and nutty flavor that melts well and contributes to that golden crust on top.
How thin should I slice the potatoes for the best results?
Thin slices between 1/8 and 1/4 inch thick work best. This thickness allows the potatoes to cook evenly and soak up the creamy sauce without turning mushy.
Can I add other ingredients like garlic or herbs?
Definitely! Adding minced garlic to the milk sauce or layering fresh thyme or rosemary with the potatoes can give an exciting flavor boost. Just be careful not to overpower the classic creamy potato goodness.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
This Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is naturally vegetarian as long as you use vegetarian-friendly cheese and milk. No meat or broth is involved, making it a great option for meat-free meals.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and timeless about this Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe that turns simple ingredients into a memorable dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a bit of cozy goodness, I can’t recommend making this enough. It’s easy, delicious, and always brings smiles to the table. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy potatoes!
Print
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features thinly sliced potatoes and onions layered in a rich milk and flour sauce, baked until golden and crispy. Perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Onions
- 5–6 cups thinly sliced potatoes (1/8–1/4 inch thick)
- 2 cups thinly sliced onions
Sauce and Seasoning
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese (optional)
Other
- Cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray to prevent the potatoes from sticking.
- Layer Potatoes and Onions: Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle half of the sliced onions evenly over the potatoes, followed by 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Repeat the layering process, ending with a top layer of potatoes, sprinkled with the remaining salt and pepper.
- Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour with 3 cups of whole milk until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture over the layered potatoes and onions, ensuring the liquid almost covers the top layer. Add a little more milk if necessary to achieve this coverage.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Evenly sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Romano cheese over the top of the potatoes for a savory finish, if desired.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and crispy around the edges.
- Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and allow the scalloped potatoes to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the sauce thicken slightly for easier serving.
Notes
- Use russet potatoes for best texture, but Yukon Gold potatoes also work well for their buttery flavor.
- Ensure potatoes are sliced uniformly to cook evenly.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the flour slightly, or reduce the amount of milk.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and omit Romano cheese.
- The recipe can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving to save time.
