Description
This creamy scalloped potatoes recipe features thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes baked in a rich garlic-infused cream sauce with Parmesan cheese and fresh thyme. The dish is layered into a baking dish and baked until golden brown and tender, delivering a comforting and elegant side perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
- 1 tablespoon all purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with whole milk or half and half)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish. Heat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a medium-sized ceramic baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Slice Potatoes. Using a mandolin or a sharp knife, slice the Yukon gold potatoes as thinly as possible, about 1/16th of an inch thick, to ensure even cooking and a creamy texture.
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, then add the minced or pressed garlic and cook until aromatic, releasing its flavor without browning.
- Make the Roux and Cream Sauce. Stir in the all-purpose flour to the butter and garlic mixture to create a roux; cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually stir in the heavy cream, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, approximately 5 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Cheese. Stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using), fresh thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Cool Sauce Slightly. Remove the pot from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly to prevent cooking the potatoes unevenly upon mixing.
- Toss Potatoes in Sauce. Place the thinly sliced potatoes in a large bowl and gently toss them with the cream sauce to coat evenly, ensuring every slice is flavored.
- Arrange Potatoes in Baking Dish. Stack the potato slices upright in the greased baking dish, creating layers. Pour any remaining sauce over the potatoes for extra creaminess. Optionally, sprinkle a bit more Parmesan on top for a cheesy crust.
- Bake Covered. Tent the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated 400°F oven for 30 minutes to start cooking through and keep moisture in.
- Bake Uncovered to Brown. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes uncovered, allowing the potatoes to become golden brown and fully tender.
- Cool and Serve. Remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes to set slightly before serving warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For thinner slices, a mandolin slicer is recommended for even cooking.
- Substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half and half for a lighter version, but the texture will be less rich.
- Adding Parmesan cheese is optional but creates a nice savory depth and a flavorful crust.
- Fresh thyme adds herbal brightness, but dried thyme can be used in a pinch; reduce quantity accordingly.
- Letting the dish rest before serving allows the sauce to thicken and the slices to hold together better.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American