Every holiday table needs that one dish that brings everyone back for seconds and for my family, that’s always been Golden Creamy Scalloped Potatoes. Layers of tender potatoes baked in a rich, buttery cream sauce, bubbling and golden on top. The smell alone fills the kitchen with warmth and anticipation. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe delivers creamy perfection in every bite.
I still remember the first time I made it for Thanksgiving. I was nervous because scalloped potatoes have that reputation for being tricky too dry, too thin, or not cooked through. But I discovered that the secret lies in slow baking and the right balance of cream and cheese. Once that top layer turns golden and slightly crisp, you know it’s ready. Now, it’s a must-have dish for every gathering.
If you love creamy comfort dishes like this, try my Creamy Bacon Potato Soup for a simple, savory bowl on chilly nights. Or, for something lighter but just as cozy, the Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a perfect pairing.
Golden Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven. Set to 375°F and grease a large baking dish.
- Make the sauce. Melt butter in a saucepan, then stir in flour and cook for one minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until thickened. Add garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Layer the potatoes. Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the baking dish, pour some sauce over, then repeat until everything is used.
- Top with cheese. Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top for a golden finish.
- Bake. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake 20 minutes more until bubbly and browned.
- Cool and serve. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly.
Nutrition
Notes
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Ingredients for Golden Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
These ingredients are easy to find, and the dish can be made ahead for stress-free holiday prep.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced | 2 lbs |
| Butter | 3 tbsp |
| Flour | 3 tbsp |
| Whole milk | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 1 cup |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
If you’re prepping for a feast, pair these potatoes with my One Pot Potato Soup for the ultimate comfort combo, or serve them with a light starter like Mouthwatering Vegetable Soup.
How to Make Golden Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
- Preheat the oven. Set to 375°F and grease a large baking dish.
- Make the sauce. Melt butter in a saucepan, then stir in flour and cook for one minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until thickened. Add garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Layer the potatoes. Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the baking dish, pour some sauce over, then repeat until everything is used.
- Top with cheese. Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top for a golden finish.
- Bake. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake 20 minutes more until bubbly and browned.
- Cool and serve. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly.
Every bite melts in your mouth — creamy inside with that crisp golden top. If you love comforting oven dishes like this, my Creamy Lasagna Soup gives the same feeling of warmth and flavor.
For an even cozier pairing, try these potatoes with the Outback Potato Soup. Together, they turn any dinner into a holiday-worthy meal.
Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes
Use a mandoline for thin, even slices. The thinner the potatoes, the creamier the texture. If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, swap cheddar for Gruyère or add Parmesan for a salty kick. Don’t rush the baking — that extra time uncovered gives the potatoes their signature golden crust.
If you love make-ahead sides, check out my Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup for another creamy option that saves oven space. And for vegetable lovers, my Creamy Vegetable Soup brings similar flavor comfort without the heaviness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Golden Creamy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
2. What’s the difference between scalloped and au gratin potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes use a cream sauce, while au gratin potatoes include cheese layers throughout. This version mixes both styles for maximum creaminess.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Definitely. Cool completely, store in an airtight container, and freeze up to three months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
4. How can I make this lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of cream and reduce the cheese slightly. It still tastes rich and delicious.
If you want more crowd-friendly recipes like this, try my Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup or Creamy Bacon Potato Soup — both are easy, creamy, and satisfying.
Serving Ideas
Serve Golden Creamy Scalloped Potatoes alongside roasted turkey, ham, or chicken. They also pair wonderfully with fresh green beans or a crisp salad to balance the richness. For a full comforting meal, enjoy them with a bowl of One Pot Potato Soup and crusty bread.
Midjourney Image Prompts + SEO Metadata
Featured Image (Top of Article)
Prompt: “Golden scalloped potatoes baked with cream and cheese in a rustic dish, crispy top, bubbling edges, holiday table setting.”
Filename: golden-creamy-scalloped-potatoes-featured.jpg
Alt Text: golden-creamy-scalloped-potatoes
Caption: Golden creamy scalloped potatoes baked until bubbly and crisp.
Description: A rich, creamy scalloped potato recipe with golden top and buttery flavor.
Ingredients Image
Prompt: “”
Filename: golden-creamy-scalloped-potatoes-ingredients.jpg
Step Image 1
Prompt: “Hands layering thin potato slices in baking dish with creamy sauce being poured over.”
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Step Image 2
Prompt: “Oven shot of scalloped potatoes bubbling with golden crust forming on top.”
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Serving Image
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Recipe Card Image
Prompt: “Flat lay of baked scalloped potatoes next to printed recipe card on linen cloth.”
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Rank Math SEO Fields
Title (H1):
Golden Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: Rich, Buttery, and Perfectly Baked
Meta Description:
Golden Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are rich, cheesy, and buttery. The perfect side dish for holidays or cozy family dinners.
SEO Title (Expert):
Golden Creamy Scalloped Potatoes – Easy & Delicious Holiday Recipe (2025)
Power Word: Delicious
Emotional Word: Comforting
Uncommon Word: Golden
Common Words: Easy, Recipe, Potatoes, Creamy
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