There’s something about Homemade Scalloped Potatoes that feels like a hug from the oven. Layers of tender potatoes, rich cream sauce, and buttery flavor come together in this classic side dish that always steals the spotlight. Whether it’s a holiday feast or Sunday dinner, these potatoes are pure comfort — creamy inside, perfectly golden on top, and impossible to stop eating.
The first time I made them from scratch, I realized how easy they actually are — no boxed mix, no shortcuts, just real ingredients and simple steps. The aroma of cream, butter, and garlic filling the kitchen made it hard to wait for that first bite. Now they sit right next to my Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole as go-to comfort side dishes everyone loves.
Homemade Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Peel and thinly slice potatoes into ⅛-inch rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Simmer until slightly thickened, then season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Add one layer of sliced potatoes, then pour a bit more sauce on top. Repeat until all potatoes and sauce are used, finishing with sauce on top.
- If you love extra flavor, sprinkle a light layer of cheese between each layer or just on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving. The sauce will thicken as it cools slightly.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love Homemade Scalloped Potatoes
This recipe makes perfectly creamy, tender potatoes every single time. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for holidays. The sauce is made with basic pantry staples — milk, butter, flour, and a little garlic — and bakes into a velvety blanket that coats every slice.
If you enjoy cozy, family-favorite sides like my Creamy Cheesy Potato Soup or Cajun Potato Soup, this classic potato bake will fit right into your comfort food lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Potatoes:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional but lovely)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan (optional for extra flavor)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped parsley
- Extra cheese for topping
If you love simple recipes that rely on pantry staples, you’ll also adore my Creamy Carrot Lentil Soup — another creamy dish made from everyday ingredients.
How to Make Homemade Scalloped Potatoes
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Peel and thinly slice potatoes into ⅛-inch rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline.
Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Simmer until slightly thickened, then season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes
Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Add one layer of sliced potatoes, then pour a bit more sauce on top. Repeat until all potatoes and sauce are used, finishing with sauce on top.
Step 4: Add Cheese (Optional)
If you love extra flavor, sprinkle a light layer of cheese between each layer or just on top.
Step 5: Bake Until Tender
Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving. The sauce will thicken as it cools slightly.
If you love creamy oven-baked recipes, this one’s as cozy and crowd-pleasing as my Garten’s Cranberry Orange Bread — warm, nostalgic, and always worth it.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Scalloped Potatoes
- Slice evenly: This helps the potatoes cook evenly.
- Use starchy potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russets give the best creamy texture.
- Thicken the sauce first: Prevents a watery bake.
- Don’t rush baking time: The potatoes need to be tender all the way through.
Those same “slow and steady” tips are what make my French Onion Ground Beef turn out so flavorful and rich.
How to Store and Reheat
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm covered in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or in the microwave with a splash of milk.
Freezing: Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Like my Christmas Bread Recipe, this dish tastes just as comforting reheated — maybe even better the next day.
Flavor Variations
- Garlic Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes: Add ½ cup Parmesan and a sprinkle of thyme.
- Cheesy Bacon Scalloped Potatoes: Add crispy bacon between layers.
- Onion & Herb Version: Add caramelized onions and fresh thyme for depth.
- Spicy Cajun Twist: Stir in a pinch of Cajun seasoning to the sauce.
If you love giving classics your own spin, this recipe is as flexible as my Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I use half-and-half instead of milk and cream?
Absolutely — it still gives that creamy texture.
3. How do I make them extra cheesy?
Mix cheddar or Gruyère into the sauce and sprinkle some on top.
4. Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Yes, but reduce the baking time slightly — they cook faster.
The Final Bite
These Homemade Scalloped Potatoes are the kind of comfort food that everyone loves — creamy, tender, and full of buttery flavor. They pair beautifully with roast chicken, ham, or even just a fresh salad for a cozy, satisfying meal.
It’s a simple recipe made from pantry ingredients, yet it feels so special every single time. Serve them alongside my Cajun Seafood Alfredo or Crack Chicken & Rice Soup for the ultimate comfort dinner combo.