How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: A Guide for Beginners and Experts

Scalloped potatoes with cream are a beloved comfort dish that can cater to both novice and experienced cooks. This simple yet impressive recipe guarantees delicious results every time. Whether you're making this as a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, follow this detailed guide to create these creamy, comforting scalloped potatoes.

Ingredients

4-5 medium potatoes, russet or Yukon gold (works well) 1 cup heavy cream 1 cup milk 2 tablespoons butter 1 small onion (optional, thinly sliced) 2 cups shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Gruyère, optional) Salt and pepper to taste Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional) 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and peel the potatoes. Slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch thick). A mandoline slicer is ideal for this task.

Prepare the Cream Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, milk, and butter. Optionally, you can add minced garlic and sliced onions to add depth of flavor. Heat the mixture until the butter is melted and the mixture is warmed through. Season with salt, pepper, and any fresh herbs you like.

Layer the Potatoes

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes. If using cheese, sprinkle half of it over the cream layer. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cream, and cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Cool and Serve

Let the scalloped potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and maintain their shape.

Tips

For added flavor: Consider incorporating cooked bacon or ham between layers for a richer taste. Experiment with different cheeses: Try using a combination of cheeses to add variety and depth to your dish. Crispier top: If you want a crispy top, broil for a few minutes at the end, but watch carefully to avoid burning.

This creamy scalloped potato dish is a delicious and comforting treat. Whether you're making it as part of a hearty meal or an indulgent side, these step-by-step instructions should help create a dish that satisfies everyone's taste buds.

If you're not feeling adventurous, I make scalloped potatoes with milk. If I feel unsure, I'll make a white sauce (roux with milk), which is usually perfect. It took me a bit of Googling to find a recipe which did include cream. Here it is: