Description
This Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish made with tender Yukon Gold potatoes, a savory garlic-thyme sauce, and layers of melted cheddar cheese. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a classic side perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for the pan
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 4 garlic cloves, grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Potatoes
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced ⅛-inch thick
- ½ medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1½ cups grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups whole milk followed by 1 cup vegetable broth to create a smooth sauce. Stir in 4 grated garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves, 2 teaspoons sea salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Continue cooking while whisking frequently for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Dish: Layer half of the sliced Yukon Gold potatoes on the bottom of the baking dish. Add half of the thinly sliced yellow onion over the potatoes, then pour half of the prepared sauce evenly on top. Sprinkle 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese over the sauce. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, onions, sauce, and finish with ½ cup of cheese on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes to allow the potatoes to begin cooking and flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 35 to 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced and the cheese on top turns golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, allow the scalloped potatoes to stand at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and enhances the flavor.
Notes
- For thinner potato slices, use a mandoline slicer to ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a richer flavor.
- Cheddar cheese can be swapped with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different cheese profile.
- To make ahead, assemble the dish and refrigerate overnight; bake an additional 10-15 minutes if baking cold.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes, baked potatoes, comfort food, potato casserole, creamy potato dish