Scalloped potatoes, a classic dish beloved by many, bring the simple potato to new heights of creamy, cheesy goodness. An ideal side for gatherings or a comforting family dinner, this versatile favorite combines thinly sliced potatoes with a rich sauce often accentuated by the sharpness of cheddar or the subtlety of Gruyère. Every spoonful is a journey through layers of tender, golden-browned perfection. In this culinary exploration, discover an array of the best scalloped potatoes recipes, each offering a unique twist on this timeless comfort food. Whether it’s a traditional approach that honors generations of kitchen wisdom or innovative flavors that enliven this classic dish, there’s a scalloped potato recipe here to satisfy every palate and complement any meal.
Scalloped potatoes, referred to in some regions as potatoes au gratin, originated from the French culinary tradition, where the term “gratin” denotes a technique in which ingredients are topped with cheese, breadcrumbs, or both, and then browned to create a delectably crisp crust. The term “scalloped” traditionally relates to the baking dish used to serve these creamy slices of potatoes, often featuring scalloped edges. While the exact origins are debated, it’s widely accepted that the dish gained popularity in America during the 20th century and has been a staple ever since, gracing both everyday dinner tables and festive celebrations alike.
The universal appeal of scalloped potatoes lies in their harmonious balance of simplicity and indulgence. Their versatility is on full display as they effortlessly adapt to a multitude of culinary contexts, complementing both the elegance of a holiday roast and the humble offerings of a weeknight meal. The basic template of the dish invites countless variations, each catering to different tastes and dietary requirements. From the luxurious addition of truffle oil for a gourmet twist, to a plant-based version that replaces dairy with cashew cream, scalloped potatoes are a culinary chameleon. This adaptability not only endears them to home cooks around the globe but also secures their place on restaurant menus as a beloved side that pairs well with nearly any main course.
Here are top 10 Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipes:
1. Classic Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
The quintessence of homestyle cooking is embodied in the Classic Creamy Scalloped Potatoes. Starting with a selection of uniformly thinly-sliced potatoes ensures each layer cooks to soft perfection. The heart of the dish, a velvety béchamel, is seasoned with a touch of nutmeg and black pepper, then enriched with a generous helping of cheddar cheese for that characteristic pull-apart gooeyness. Once assembled in a casserole dish and baked until the top layer turns a delightful golden-brown, these scalloped potatoes emerge as the ultimate marriage of simplicity and indulgence—a testament to the enduring legacy of this beloved recipe.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
2. Garlic Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes
Elevate your taste buds with the savory symphony of Garlic Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes. Each forkful is infused with the aromatic essence of garlic, while a generous portion of Parmesan cheese creates a salty, umami-rich crust that is simply irresistible. Laced with herbs and a hint of garlic throughout the layers, the potatoes are baked to a tender crescendo, capped with a golden, crisp topping that is the hallmark of this comforting creation.
Ingredients:
- 4 large red potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups of grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, minced
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of milk
- 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Additional fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
3. Pesto Scalloped Potatoes
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Pesto Scalloped Potatoes, where the traditional creamy layers meet the bold zest of basil pesto. This variant lends a refreshing twist to the classic dish, with each slice of potato drenched in a herbaceous and nutty sauce, enlivened by the bright notes of garlic and pine nuts.
Ingredients:
- 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup of basil pesto, homemade or store-bought
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of whole milk
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
4. Bacon and Chive Scalloped Potatoes
Infuse your meal with the savory depth of Bacon and Chive Scalloped Potatoes, an indulgent twist on the classic side dish. Smoky bacon and subtle, onion-like chives intermingle among velvety potato slices, creating a dish that’s both hearty and refined. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any main course, promising to be a crowd-pleaser with its comforting appeal and rich flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh chives, plus extra for garnish
- 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika (optional)
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
5. Cajun Scalloped Potatoes
Ignite your taste buds with Cajun Scalloped Potatoes, a dish that marries the creamy comfort of scalloped potatoes with the bold spices of Cajun cuisine. Each forkful is a blend of soft potatoes and a spicy, smoky flavor profile, making it a standout dish that brings a bit of Southern flair to your dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 1 tbsp of Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp of smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp of onion powder
- 1/2 tsp of garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper, adjust to taste
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, cubed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Green onions, finely chopped for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
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6. Cheesy Jalapeno Scalloped Potatoes
Spice up your meal with Cheesy Jalapeno Scalloped Potatoes, combining the rich, creamy texture of classic scalloped potatoes with the fiery kick of jalapeno peppers. This dish is a bold twist on tradition, packed with layers of flavor and a generous heat that’s sure to delight fans of spicier fare.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 1/2 cups of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp of ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp of chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
- Thinly sliced jalapeno peppers for garnish (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish (optional)
7. Mushroom and Gruyère Scalloped Potatoes
Savor the earthy goodness of Mushroom and Gruyère Scalloped Potatoes, where the umami of mushrooms and the rich, nutty flavor of Gruyère cheese meld perfectly in a creamy, indulgent side dish. This recipe adds a sophisticated touch to your table, ideal for those who appreciate the depths of flavor that mushrooms and high-quality cheese can offer.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups of shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup of sliced cremini or button mushrooms
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, minced
- 1 tbsp of fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 tsp of nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
- Fresh chives, chopped for garnish (optional)
8. Sour Cream and Onion Scalloped Potatoes
Redefine comfort food with Sour Cream and Onion Scalloped Potatoes, where the classic combination of sour cream and savory onions intertwine in a delightful dance of flavors. Its creamy texture and rich aroma transform the humble potato into a dish of cozy sophistication that’s perfect for any gathering or special meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups of sour cream
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
- Chopped chives for garnish (optional)
9. Vegan Scalloped Potatoes
Savor the comfort of a classic with a plant-based twist in this Vegan Scalloped Potatoes recipe. This dish captures all the heartiness without any of the dairy, using creamy cashew sauce and nutritional yeast for a rich, cheese-like flavor. Perfect for vegans and those with dietary restrictions, it ensures that everyone at the table can indulge in the warmth of a well-loved side dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups of raw cashews, soaked overnight and drained
- 2 cups of vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 tbsp of fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp of onion powder
- 1/2 tsp of garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup of unsalted plant-based butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
10. Sweet Potato and Maple Scalloped Potatoes
Embark on a culinary adventure with the Sweet Potato and Maple Scalloped Potatoes, where the earthy depth of sweet potatoes is accentuated by the subtle sweetness of maple syrup. This delightful twist on a traditional dish brings forward the flavors of autumn, making it a quintessential addition to a festive dinner or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup of grated Gruyere cheese
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Both the Vegan and Sweet Potato Maple Scalloped Potatoes can be prepared in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake it according to the instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Are these recipes gluten-free?
The Vegan Scalloped Potatoes are naturally gluten-free. However, for the Sweet Potato and Maple Scalloped Potatoes, make sure the heavy cream and grated cheese you use are gluten-free or use suitable substitutes to make it gluten-free.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be cooled to room temperature, transferred to airtight containers, and refrigerated. They will typically keep for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warm.
What can I use instead of cashews for a nut-free version of the Vegan Scalloped Potatoes?
For a nut-free vegan version, you can use a plant-based cream or unsweetened soy milk as the base for your sauce. Thicken it with a roux made from plant-based butter and flour if needed.
Can I make the Sweet Potato and Maple Scalloped Potatoes dairy-free?
To make the Sweet Potato and Maple Scalloped Potatoes dairy-free, replace the heavy cream with plant-based cream and the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative. Instead of Gruyere cheese, use a dairy-free cheese that melts well.
Conclusion
Scalloped potatoes, a dish steeped in comfort and tradition, epitomize the versatility and richness of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly extraordinary. Whether you opt for the classic version or experiment with vegan alternatives and sweet potato variations, each iteration brings its own unique qualities and flavors to the table. These dishes not only serve as a testament to culinary creativity but also as a means to accommodate a wider range of dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone can savor the flavors of the season. Moreover, scalloped potatoes offer more than just taste; they evoke memories and forge new ones, spanning generations and cultures, becoming a canvas for family stories and shared meals. In this way, a humble side dish can tell a story, bring people together, and become a cherished part of our collective culinary heritage.
