Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: Never Watery!

Is there anything more comforting than a dish of scalloped potatoes? That creamy, cheesy goodness, the tender slices of potato…it’s pure comfort food! But let’s be honest, we’ve all been there: you pull your scalloped potatoes out of the oven, and the sauce is thin, watery, and just plain sad. Fear not! This Creamy Scalloped Potatoes recipe guarantees a rich, thick, and decadent sauce that clings to every single slice of potato. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

This isn’t your grandma’s watery scalloped potatoes (unless your grandma already knows this secret!). Here’s why you’ll be making this recipe again and again:

• Perfectly Creamy Sauce: Say goodbye to thin, watery sauce forever! The secret is in the roux, which creates a stable, luscious base.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen right now.
• Comfort Food Classic: Nothing beats a warm, comforting dish of cheesy potatoes.
• Impressive and Easy: It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the ingredients. The key to the best scalloped potatoes is using high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the cheese. The combination of creamy potatoes, a rich cheese sauce, and a hint of nutmeg creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!

• 2.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced: Yukon Golds are the star here! Their slightly waxy texture holds up beautifully during baking and they offer a subtle sweetness. Make sure to slice them thinly and evenly, about 1/8 inch thick, for even cooking. If you’re looking for an alternative, russet potatoes will also work, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time. You could also try red potatoes for a different flavor profile, but keep in mind they have a waxier texture than Yukon Golds.
• 4 tablespoons butter: We’re using butter to create a rich, flavorful roux. Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the amount of salt in the final dish.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This is our thickening agent! The flour, when cooked with butter, creates a roux that ensures a thick, creamy sauce.
• 3 cups milk: Whole milk is recommended for the richest sauce, but you can use 2% milk if you prefer. Avoid using skim milk, as the sauce may not thicken properly.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Seasoning is key! Don’t be afraid to adjust the salt to your taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and spice. Freshly ground black pepper is always best!
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: A secret ingredient! Nutmeg adds a warm, nutty flavor that complements the potatoes and cheese perfectly. A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it.
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese: Gruyere cheese is what truly elevates this dish. It has a nutty, slightly salty flavor that melts beautifully. If you can’t find Gruyere, you can substitute it with Swiss cheese or a blend of Parmesan and Fontina.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: For a touch of freshness and color. This is optional, but highly recommended!

Crafting Your Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: Step-by-Step

Now, let’s get cooking! Don’t be intimidated by the thought of making a creamy sauce; it’s easier than you think. The most important thing is to pay attention to the sauce as it thickens and whisk constantly to avoid lumps. With a little patience, you’ll have a perfectly creamy and delicious dish of scalloped potatoes in no time!

1. Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Make the Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour. This is the beginning of your roux! Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Cooking the flour for a minute removes the raw flour taste and allows it to properly thicken the sauce.
3. Create the Cream Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. It’s crucial to add the milk gradually to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. This is how you know it’s ready!
4. Season and Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the salt, pepper, nutmeg, and half of the shredded Gruyere cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Layer the Potatoes and Sauce: Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
6. Top with Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining Gruyere cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help the potatoes cook evenly and prevent the top from burning. Bake for 30 minutes.
7. Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. A knife should easily pierce through the potatoes when they’re done.
8. Rest and Garnish: Let the scalloped potatoes stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Every Time

Want to take your scalloped potatoes to the next level? Here are a few tips to ensure success every time:

• Slice Evenly: Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly. This will ensure that they cook evenly.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you overcrowd the baking dish, the potatoes will steam instead of bake, resulting in a mushy texture. Use a larger dish if necessary.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before layering the potatoes and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Get Creative with Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky Gouda would be delicious additions.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the scalloped potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

What to Serve With Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. They’re a natural complement to roasted chicken, baked ham, or a hearty lentil loaf. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. If you’re looking for a simple yet elegant side dish, try our golden vegetable rice pilaf. Its light and fluffy texture creates a nice contrast with the richness of the scalloped potatoes.

Your Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Questions Answered (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of potato?

While Yukon Gold potatoes are highly recommended for their creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor, you can substitute them with Russet potatoes if needed. However, Russet potatoes may require a slightly longer cooking time and tend to absorb more sauce. Red potatoes can also be used, but they have a waxier texture and may not be as creamy as Yukon Golds.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and the milk with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk. For the Gruyere cheese, you can use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative, but be aware that the flavor and texture may differ slightly from traditional Gruyere.

How do I prevent the sauce from being watery?

The key to preventing a watery sauce is the roux! Make sure to cook the flour with the butter for a full minute to remove the raw flour taste and allow it to properly thicken the sauce. Also, gradually whisk in the milk and continue whisking constantly until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If the sauce still seems thin, you can simmer it for a few more minutes, stirring constantly, until it reaches the desired consistency. Another option is to incorporate slow cooker cheesy potatoes into your meal!

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables to this recipe to customize it to your liking. Sliced onions, garlic, or leeks can be added to the saucepan when melting the butter for extra flavor. You can also layer sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach with the potatoes and cheese sauce.

Enjoy Your Homemade Creamy Scalloped Potatoes!

There you have it – a foolproof recipe for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with a perfectly thick and creamy sauce that will never be watery! This dish is the epitome of comfort food and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let us know how your scalloped potatoes turned out! And be sure to share this recipe with your fellow food lovers!