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Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Easy Herb-Infused Sauce for Perfect Sides

creamy scalloped potatoes - featured image

Creamy scalloped potatoes baked with a rich herb-infused sauce, featuring tender potato slices and a golden, bubbling cheese crust. This comforting side dish is quick, easy, and perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with a tablespoon of butter.
  2. Peel and slice potatoes thinly, about 1/8-inch (3 mm) thick.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Stir in 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 2 minutes to form a light golden roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in 2 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream, whisking to prevent lumps until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
  6. Add fresh thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir well and simmer on low heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and thickened. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Layer half the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Pour half the sauce over them, then sprinkle with half the cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Repeat layering with remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheeses.
  9. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes to brown the top and thicken the sauce.
  11. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use fresh herbs for best flavor; dried herbs can be substituted at half the amount. Thin, even potato slices ensure even cooking. Cover dish during baking to steam potatoes and retain moisture. Let dish rest before serving for cleaner slices. For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, creamy potatoes, herb-infused sauce, comfort food, cheesy potatoes, easy side dish, holiday side, baked potatoes