Experience the magic of truly homemade Scalloped Potatoes. This exceptional recipe redefines creamy comfort, achieving a luscious texture and rich flavor without relying on traditional milk, heavy cream, or even canned soups. It’s the perfect, crowd-pleasing side dish that elevates any holiday feast or simple family dinner!

Craving more delightful potato side dishes or unique casseroles? Be sure to explore our collection, including these Scalloped Sweet Potatoes for a touch of sweetness, or this unexpected yet delicious Scalloped Corn and Broccoli.

The Ultimate Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: A No-Cream, No-Soup Recipe for Every Occasion

Scalloped potatoes, also lovingly known as potatoes au gratin, have long held a special place at our holiday tables. Their rich, comforting texture and savory flavor make them an irresistible accompaniment to any festive meal. But why reserve such a sublime dish for only a few days a year? This particular scalloped potatoes recipe is so remarkably delicious and surprisingly simple to prepare, you’ll find yourself wanting to whip it up far more often than just Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Why This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite

What truly sets this scalloped potato recipe apart from countless others is its innovative approach to achieving that desired creamy texture and profoundly rich flavor. Unlike traditional versions that heavily rely on copious amounts of milk, heavy cream, or even convenience-driven canned soups, this recipe takes a refreshingly different path. We craft a homemade sauce from scratch, building a robust flavor profile using a base of savory chicken broth, a touch of unexpected mayonnaise, flour, melted butter, and fragrant onions. The result is a sauce that’s wonderfully smooth, deeply flavorful, and still incredibly decadent, yet feels a bit lighter and less overwhelmingly rich than its cream-laden counterparts. The mayonnaise, while an unconventional addition, plays a vital role in providing a luxurious, silky mouthfeel and a subtle tang that perfectly balances the richness.

This clever combination means you can enjoy the comforting indulgence of perfectly cooked scalloped potatoes without the common heavy feeling often associated with them. It’s perfect for elevating your regular weeknight dinners, making a standout dish for potlucks, or serving as an impressive side at any special gathering. Prepare to impress your guests and family with a dish that’s both classic in spirit and refreshingly unique in its execution, promising a creamy, savory bite in every forkful.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

Crafting these extraordinary scalloped potatoes begins with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and achieving that irresistible texture that makes this dish so beloved.

• Potatoes: The undeniable star of our dish! While many varieties work wonderfully, the specific type of potato you choose will significantly influence the final texture of your casserole. We’ll dive deeper into potato selection shortly, but generally, aim for firm, unblemished potatoes that are free from green spots or sprouts.
• Onion: A finely chopped white or yellow onion forms the aromatic foundation for our creamy sauce. As the onion gently sautés, it releases its inherent sweetness and savory notes, infusing the entire dish with a depth of flavor that is essential to good scalloped potatoes.
• Butter: Whether you opt for salted or unsalted butter, this ingredient is crucial for sautéing the onions to perfection and, more importantly, for creating the base of a classic roux. If you use salted butter, remember to slightly reduce the amount of additional salt called for in the recipe to maintain balance.
• All-Purpose Flour: This common kitchen staple is the key to thickening our sauce, ensuring it achieves a smooth, velvety consistency without any unwanted lumps. It forms the second half of the roux, binding with the butter to create a stable base for the liquid.
• Chicken Broth: This savory liquid acts as the backbone of our unique sauce, brilliantly replacing heavy cream or milk found in more traditional recipes. It contributes a rich, umami depth that beautifully complements the earthy flavor of the potatoes. For those looking for a vegetarian option, a good quality vegetable broth can be seamlessly swapped in.
• Mayonnaise: An unconventional but truly brilliant ingredient! While mayonnaise might seem like a surprising addition to scalloped potatoes, it’s instrumental in this recipe. It adds a subtle, pleasant tang and contributes significantly to the sauce’s luxurious creaminess and silky mouthfeel, all without the overwhelming heaviness or richness of dairy cream. Rest assured, the finished dish will not taste overtly like mayonnaise; rather, it will have an exquisite, balanced flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are absolutely essential for enhancing all the other flavors in the dish. The amounts listed in the recipe card serve as a guideline; however, we always encourage tasting and adjusting to your personal preference throughout the cooking process. Proper seasoning can elevate a good dish to a great one.
• Shredded Cheese: We particularly love the sharp, familiar flavor of cheddar cheese for these potatoes, as it melts beautifully to create a gooey, comforting layer and crisps up perfectly to form a golden, bubbly crust. However, this is a fantastic opportunity for culinary creativity! Experiment with other cheeses like nutty Gruyère, creamy Swiss, mild Monterey Jack, or even a blend of several cheeses to discover your favorite flavor profile.
• Paprika: A final flourish of paprika not only adds a lovely reddish-orange hue to the top of your casserole, making it visually appealing, but also contributes a subtle, sweet peppery flavor. For an extra layer of warmth and a hint of intriguing smokiness, consider using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.

Choosing the Best Potatoes for Scalloped Potatoes: A Deep Dive into Texture

The type of potato you select can significantly impact the final texture of your scalloped potato casserole, offering a nuanced difference that caters to various preferences. There’s truly no single “right” answer; it ultimately comes down to whether you prefer a potato that holds its shape or one that beautifully melts into the creamy sauce.

• Russet Potatoes (High Starch): Known for their very high starch content and fluffy, almost crumbly texture when cooked, Russets (often called baking potatoes) are excellent at absorbing liquids and flavors. If you opt for Russets, expect a dish where the potato slices readily break down during the long baking process, creating an incredibly tender, almost mashed-like consistency within the creamy sauce. They are less likely to hold their distinct slice shape, contributing to an incredibly comforting, soft, and homogenous casserole.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes (Medium Starch): A universally popular choice for a multitude of potato dishes, Yukon Golds strike a wonderful balance. They possess a medium starch content and are celebrated for their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture even before cooking. When used in scalloped potatoes, they will soften beautifully and contribute to the overall creaminess of the dish. Importantly, they are generally more likely to retain some of their individual sliced shape compared to Russets, offering a slightly firmer bite while still being exceptionally tender. They are a fantastic all-rounder if you desire both outstanding flavor and a pleasing texture.
• Waxy Potatoes (Low Starch, e.g., Red Bliss, New Potatoes, Fingerlings): Perhaps a less conventional but highly recommended choice for those who appreciate distinct potato layers are waxy potatoes. These varieties are characterized by their low starch and high moisture content, which means they hold their shape exceptionally well, even during extended baking times. If your ideal scalloped potato dish features neat, melt-in-your-mouth potato slices that don’t disintegrate into the sauce, waxy potatoes are your best bet. While they don’t contribute as much starch to naturally thicken the sauce, their firm yet tender texture offers a delightful contrast to the rich creaminess, creating a more structured and layered casserole.

Ultimately, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types to discover which one delivers your ideal scalloped potato experience! Each choice offers a unique textural journey.

How to Make These Incredible Scalloped Potatoes: Step-by-Step Perfection

While scalloped potatoes do require a generous amount of baking time to achieve ultimate tenderness and deeply developed flavors, the hands-on preparation is surprisingly straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect, creamy casserole every single time.

Step 1: Prepare Your Potatoes and Baking Dish

• Begin by preheating your oven to 325ºF (160ºC). Lightly grease a 2 1/2 quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. A rectangular or oval dish works best for neatly laying out the potato slices and ensuring even cooking.
• Carefully peel your chosen potatoes. The absolute key to evenly cooked scalloped potatoes is uniform slicing. If you are fortunate enough to own a mandoline slicer, this is its prime moment to shine, yielding perfectly consistent, paper-thin slices (ideally around 1/8-inch thick). If you’re using a sharp knife, take your time and exercise precision to cut the potatoes as uniformly as possible. Inconsistent slices will inevitably lead to some pieces being overcooked and others remaining undesirably undercooked.
• Once sliced, begin to arrange the potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Your layering doesn’t need to be meticulously artistic or perfectly fanned, but ensure all slices are laying relatively flat against each other. You can create slight overlaps to fit them all in snugly. The goal is to create an even, compact bed of potatoes that is ready to absorb that glorious, flavorful sauce.

Step 2: Craft the Creamy, Flavorful Sauce

• In a medium saucepan, melt the specified amount of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them gently until they become wonderfully soft, translucent, and highly fragrant, typically taking about 5-7 minutes. It’s important to avoid browning them too much; we aim to develop their natural sweetness and soften their texture.
• Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the softened onions and melted butter. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux. This step is absolutely crucial for cooking out any raw flour taste and ensuring that your finished sauce will be perfectly lump-free and silky smooth.
• Gradually, and while continuously whisking to maintain smoothness, pour in the chicken broth. Once the broth is fully incorporated, whisk in the mayonnaise. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until it visibly thickens and begins to bubble gently. The mayonnaise will seamlessly integrate into the sauce, contributing its signature richness without any distinct mayonnaise flavor. Now is the time to season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, the potatoes will absorb a significant amount of the seasoning, so be bold but balanced.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake to Golden Perfection

• Carefully pour the freshly made, thickened sauce evenly over the layered potatoes in the baking dish. Gently jostle or tap the dish a bit to help the sauce settle thoroughly between all the potato slices, ensuring every layer gets coated.
• Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the potatoes, creating a generous blanket. Finally, dust the cheese layer with paprika for a beautiful reddish hue and a subtle, sweet peppery flavor that enhances the golden crust.
• Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This step is absolutely vital during the initial baking phase as it effectively steams the potatoes, ensuring they become wonderfully tender and fully cooked without drying out or burning on top.
• Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 2 hours, or until the potatoes are completely fork-tender. You can test for doneness by gently piercing a potato slice in the very center of the dish with a fork. If it still feels firm or resistant, continue baking for another 15-30 minutes, checking periodically. If you desire a beautifully golden-brown, bubbly, and slightly crispy top, remove the foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
• Once baked to perfection, remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This crucial resting period allows the sauce to set slightly, making the casserole easier and neater to slice and serve.

Make-Ahead Scalloped Potatoes: Your Holiday Host’s Secret Weapon

Preparing for a bustling holiday meal or a large gathering can often be a source of stress, and finding ways to free up precious oven space and minimize last-minute tasks is always a welcome advantage. The excellent news is that these creamy scalloped potatoes are perfectly suited for making ahead, allowing you to enjoy a more relaxed and stress-free cooking experience when the big day or event arrives.

To make them ahead, simply follow the entire recipe as written, including baking the potatoes until they are completely tender, the sauce is bubbly, and the cheese has achieved that beautiful golden-brown crust. Once baked, it’s crucial to let the entire casserole cool completely to room temperature. This step is important to prevent excessive condensation from forming when you store it. Once thoroughly cooled, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

When you’re ready to serve, remove the dish from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while your oven preheats. Reheat the covered casserole in a 350ºF (175ºC) oven for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until it is thoroughly heated through and bubbling around the edges. If you desire a crisper, freshly baked top, you can remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes of reheating. This make-ahead flexibility means you can have a gourmet-quality side dish ready with minimal effort on the day of your event – truly easy peasy, and absolutely delicious every time!

Variations and Customizations: Making It Your Own

While this scalloped potatoes recipe is fantastic as written and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, it also serves as an excellent canvas for your culinary creativity. Don’t hesitate to personalize it with these delightful variations and additions:

• Add Protein: For a heartier dish that can stand as a main course, consider folding in cooked, diced ham, crispy bacon bits, or shredded cooked chicken between the potato layers.
• Herb Infusion: Elevate the aromatic profile by incorporating fresh herbs. Finely chopped thyme, rosemary, or chives can be mixed into the sauce or sprinkled between layers for an extra burst of fresh flavor.
• Garlic Lover’s Dream: If you adore garlic, sauté 1-2 cloves of minced garlic along with the onions in Step 2. This adds an irresistible layer of savory depth to the sauce.
• Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce stirred into the sauce can add a subtle, warming kick.
• Cheese Blends: Don’t limit yourself to just cheddar! Experiment with different cheese combinations. A mix of sharp cheddar and nutty Gruyère, or a blend of mild Monterey Jack and Colby, can create unique flavor profiles and intriguing textures.
• Crispy Topping: For an extra crunch, mix panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese before the final uncovered baking.

More Irresistible Side Dish Recipes for Your Table

Looking to complete your meal with more delicious accompaniments? We have plenty of options that pair wonderfully with these creamy scalloped potatoes, ensuring your spread is both varied and incredibly tasty:

• Classic Easy Dinner Rolls – Fluffy, warm, and utterly irresistible, these rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra rich and creamy sauce.
• Creamy Baked Asparagus – A vibrant green vegetable side dish that offers a fresh, slightly crisp contrast to the rich potatoes, with a delightful hint of creaminess itself.
• Sautéed Green Beans with Cherry Tomatoes – This is a simple yet elegant side dish bursting with fresh flavors, a lovely pop of color, and a tender-crisp texture.
• Snickers Salad – While it undeniably leans more towards dessert, this fun and indulgent “salad” is a surprising and delightful addition to any comfort food spread that will surely spark conversation!
• Funeral Potatoes – If you’re a true potato enthusiast, these cheesy, comforting potatoes are another fantastic casserole option, offering a different but equally beloved flavor profile. It’s always a delightful dilemma choosing between these and our scalloped potatoes!
• The Best Sweet Potato Casserole – Though often associated primarily with Thanksgiving, this sweet potato casserole is a versatile, incredibly delicious, and warmly spiced side that deserves a cherished spot at any holiday table or special meal throughout the year.

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Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Author: Deborah Harroun

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

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Ingredients

• 5 large potatoes (about 30 oz) peeled and thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 3/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Paprika, for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325ºF (160ºC). Spray a 2 1/2 quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the baking dish, ensuring they are all laying flat.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
5. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth), then the mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly.
6. Pour the thickened sauce evenly over the layered potatoes in the baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce, then dust generously with paprika.
8. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours, or until the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork.
9. For a golden-brown top, remove the foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
10. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Recipe Notes:

This recipe has been slightly adapted for enhanced flavor and texture. Nutrition information is provided as an estimate only; actual values may vary based on brands and exact measurements. It should be used as a general guideline.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1/8 of recipe | Calories: 236kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 32mg | Sodium: 386mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g

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