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Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

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  • #74187

Creamy and delicious, scalloped potatoes are one of our favorite comfort foods. Tender sliced potatoes are baked in a rich cream sauce yielding a perfect side dish for almost any occasion.


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  1-2 hrs
Rating: 5/5

4 reviews
2 comments

ingredients

3 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 1/2 cups milk
6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 tablespoon cold butter, cut in small bits

directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 2 1/2 quart baking dish.

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring frequently, until the onion is soft.

Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well. While stirring, slowly stir in the milk. Bring the sauce to a strong simmer and let cook, stirring constantly, until it thickens (about 6-8 minutes).

Remove the pan from the heat.

Layer a third of the potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Evenly pour a third of the cream sauce over the potatoes. Repeat the layers ending with sauce.

Evenly dot the top of the potatoes with the butter.

Cover the baking dish with foil. Place the dish in the oven and bake at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 60 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly.

Remove from the oven, let stand for 5 minutes, then serve the creamy scalloped potatoes hot.

recipe tips


Stir the sauce constantly while cooking to prevent lumps.

Layer the potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.

Let the dish stand for a few minutes after baking for the sauce to set.

Experiment with adding layers of ham or bacon for a meaty version.

Remember to adjust seasoning to taste, as the type and freshness of ingredients can affect the overall flavor.

Serve as a side dish with meats, poultry, or as part of a vegetarian meal.

common recipe questions


What type of potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes?

Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal as they hold their shape and absorb the cream well.

How thin should the potato slices be?

They should be thinly sliced, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick, for even cooking and texture.

Can I use a food processor to slice the potatoes?

Yes, a food processor with a slicing attachment can provide uniform thickness and save time.

What's the best way to prevent the potatoes from turning dark after they are sliced?

Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water until ready to use, then drain and pat dry.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, grated cheese like cheddar or Gruyere can be added between layers for a cheesy variation.

How do I know when the sauce is thick enough?

The sauce should coat the back of a spoon and not run off easily.

Can I prepare scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate. Add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

What are some variations for the cream sauce?

You can infuse the milk with garlic, herbs, or spices for additional flavor.

How can I tell when the potatoes are fully cooked?

They should be tender when pierced with a fork and the top should be golden and bubbly.

Can I make this dish lighter?

Use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of butter for a lighter version, though this may affect the creaminess.


nutrition data

Nutritional data has not been calculated yet.


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reviews & comments

  1. Shelly REVIEW:

    Thank you for a scalloped potato recipe! So many want to add cheese and that is an gratin potatoes. Scalloped does not have cheese! Delicious recipe!!!!

    • Actually, that's not accurate, but glad you enjoyed the recipe!

  2. MrsSparky REVIEW:

    One of the best scalloped potatoes recipe I have ever made. I kicked it up a notched and added some red pepper flakes. And added a bit more salt other than that it’s Fantastic!

  3. Guest Foodie

    Can I use a 13 x9 Glass pan

  4. Guest Foodie

    I wish I had paid attention to The Kid's mention of adding salt. The dish was definitely needed more salt than what was listed in the recipe. Otherwise it was tasty but the lack of salt really pulled it down.

  5. The Kid REVIEW:

    This was the best recipe for scalloped potatoes I've made. Sometimes the sauce is too runny, but this recipe was perfect. I just added a little more salt and they turned out great!

  6. Shelbyann REVIEW:

    I followed these directions. Absolutely no changes. Best Scalloped Poatoes I have EVER had!!

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