Description
These Scalloped Potatoes are a comforting, cheesy, and creamy side dish made with layers of thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes, a garlic and thyme-infused cream sauce, and sharp cheddar cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dish is perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any gathering where you want to impress with a classic, cozy favorite. It can be made ahead and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the baking dish
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 4 garlic cloves, finely grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced into half-moons
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Slowly whisk in the milk followed by the vegetable broth, ensuring the mixture stays smooth.
- Add the grated garlic, thyme, sea salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, whisking frequently, until the sauce slightly thickens. Remove from heat.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Scatter half of the onions on top.
- Pour half of the sauce evenly over the potatoes and onions, then sprinkle with 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, sauce, and top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 35 to 40 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 20 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Notes
- Use a mandoline for uniform potato slices.
- Letting the dish rest after baking helps it set and slice cleanly.
- Can be made up to 2 days ahead and reheated before serving.
- Mix in Gruyère or Parmesan for added flavor complexity.
- Use plant-based milk and cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
