There’s something deeply comforting about the golden-bubbly top of creamy scalloped potatoes au gratin fresh from the oven. The way the rich cheese melts into tender, thinly sliced potatoes creates a dish that’s both elegant and incredibly satisfying. After years of hunting for the perfect recipe to impress guests and soothe those home-cooked food cravings, I finally mastered this version that’s surprisingly easy to prepare but feels like a special occasion every time. Whether you’re craving a cozy side for family dinner or a crowd-pleaser to bring to your next potluck, this creamy scalloped potatoes au gratin hits all the right notes—luxurious, flavorful, and utterly irresistible.
Why choose Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin?
Irresistibly creamy: The rich cheese sauce perfectly coats each tender potato slice for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Effortlessly elegant: Despite the gourmet feel, this recipe is easy to prepare with straightforward steps. Crowd-pleasing comfort: It’s a guaranteed hit whether at weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Golden, bubbly topping: The beautifully browned crust adds irresistible texture and visual appeal. Versatile side dish: Pairs wonderfully with roasts, veggies, or your favorite mains to elevate any meal.
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin Ingredients
For the Potatoes & Sauce
- Russet potatoes – choose starchy potatoes for tender, creamy layers that soak up flavor beautifully.
- Sharp cheddar cheese – provides rich, tangy depth that melts smoothly in this creamy scalloped potatoes au gratin.
- Heavy cream – ensures a luscious, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to each slice.
- Garlic cloves – minced for a subtle aromatic kick that enhances the overall richness.
- Butter – adds a silky finish and helps brown the top to golden perfection.
- All-purpose flour – used to thicken the cheese sauce just right, no lumps!
- Salt and black pepper – essential seasonings to balance and elevate the dish’s flavor.
For the Topping
- Parmesan cheese – sprinkles on top for a crispy, nutty crust that contrasts the creamy interior.
- Fresh thyme or parsley – optional garnish to add a fresh, fragrant note and vibrant color.
How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin
- Preheat: Set your oven to 375°F and generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish for easy release and golden edges.
- Slice Potatoes: Thinly slice 2 pounds of russet potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick) and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
For the Sauce:
- Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons butter until foamy, then whisk in 3 tablespoons flour until smooth, cooking for 1 minute.
- Add Cream: Slowly whisk in 2 cups heavy cream and 1 cup milk, simmering until the mixture thickens and lightly coats the back of a spoon.
- Melt Cheese: Stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted into the sauce, then season with minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Assemble & Bake:
- Layer Potatoes: Arrange half of the potato slices in the prepared baking dish, pour half of the cheese sauce over them, then layer the remaining potatoes and sauce, smoothing the top.
- Top & Bake: Sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan evenly over the gratin and bake at 375°F for 45–50 minutes, until the sauce bubbles vigorously and the top turns golden brown.
- Rest: Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and make slicing easier.
Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a fragrant finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin?
Elevate your meal with perfect pairings that complement the rich, cheesy delight of this beloved dish.
- Roasted Chicken: Juicy roasted chicken drizzled with herbal gravy offers a savory contrast that balances the rich creaminess perfectly.
- Steamed Asparagus: The bright, fresh crunch of steamed asparagus provides a delightful textural contrast and a lovely pop of color on the plate.
- Grilled Steak: A succulent grilled steak brings a hearty, satisfying element and savory flavors that harmonize beautifully with the scalloped potatoes.
- Garlic Bread: Golden, crunchy garlic bread makes for the ideal accompaniment for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce, adding a comforting edge to your meal.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A light garden salad featuring crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, refreshing your palate with every bite.
- Red Wine: A glass of bold red wine complements the flavors of the dish while enhancing the overall dining experience, adding a touch of elegance.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse offers a luscious sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the savory potatoes, capping off a beautiful meal.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to restore creaminess and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, keeping for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to enjoy.
Reheating: When ready to savor again, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F until warmed through. Add a splash of cream to revive creaminess if needed.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can slice the potatoes and prepare the cheese sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. When ready to bake, layer the sliced potatoes with the sauce in your buttered baking dish, top with Parmesan, and bake at 375°F for about 45–50 minutes until golden and bubbly. This way, you’ll have a delightful dish that tastes just as delicious as when made fresh, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones!
Tips for the Best Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin
- Choose the Right Potato: Use starchy russet potatoes for tender, creamy layers; waxy varieties may yield a gummy texture.
- Slice Evenly: Aim for uniform 1/8-inch slices to ensure even cooking and consistent creaminess throughout.
- Avoid Sauce Lumps: Whisk flour into melted butter thoroughly before adding cream to prevent clumps in your creamy scalloped potatoes au gratin.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake until golden and bubbly, then rest 10 minutes; overbaking can dry out the dish or toughen the potatoes.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the gratin to sit before slicing helps the sauce thicken for cleaner serving and better texture.
- Use Quality Cheese: Sharp cheddar and Parmesan add depth and that irresistible golden crust—avoid pre-shredded cheese for best melting results.
Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin
Feel free to sprinkle your own twist on this comforting classic; the possibilities are endless!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese for a vegan-friendly version that’s still rich and creamy.
- Herb Infusion: Add minced fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to the cheese sauce for a fragrant depth that complements the potatoes beautifully.
- Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as Gruyère or fontina, to create unique flavor profiles and delightful textures.
- Add Vegetables: Layer in thinly sliced zucchini or spinach between the potato layers for added nutrition and a pop of color, making this dish even more vibrant.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a subtle heat that adds excitement to each creamy bite.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or a bit of crumbled bacon to introduce a lovely smoky depth to the dish, making it even more irresistible.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan on top for an added crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy layers below.
- Sliced Ham or Chicken: For a heartier dish, layer in cooked ham or shredded rotisserie chicken for a complete meal that’s both comforting and fulfilling.
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the best creamy scalloped potatoes au gratin?
I always recommend using starchy russet potatoes. They create tender, creamy layers that absorb the cheese sauce beautifully. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they can result in a gummy texture that doesn’t quite melt in your mouth the way this dish should.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Store your creamy scalloped potatoes au gratin in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure to cool them to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor. When reheating, the oven method at 350°F helps bring back that luscious creaminess perfectly.
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes au gratin, and if so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great option if you want to save portions for later. After the dish has cooled completely, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with foil to protect against freezer burn. Label and store for up to 2 to 3 months. When you ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Adding a splash of cream before reheating helps revive the sauce’s silky texture.
What if my cheese sauce becomes lumpy during cooking?
Don’t worry; lumps happen but are easy to avoid. The key is to whisk the flour thoroughly into the melted butter before slowly adding the cream. This step creates a smooth roux base. If lumps appear, you can strain the sauce or vigorously whisk it over low heat until smooth again. Patience in gradual mixing is your best friend here!
Is this dish safe for pets or people with dairy allergies?
Creamy scalloped potatoes au gratin is definitely a dairy-rich dish, so it’s best kept away from pets and anyone with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. For those dietary needs, consider experimenting with dairy-free cheese and cream alternatives, but keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ from the classic version I adore!
The Best Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Thinly slice 2 pounds of russet potatoes and place them on a paper towel.
- Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour.
- Whisk in 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 cup of milk, simmering until thick.
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar until melted, then add minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Layer half of the potato slices in the baking dish, pour half of the cheese sauce over them, and repeat.
- Sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan on top and bake for 45–50 minutes.
- Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving.
