Description
This classic Scalloped Potatoes recipe features thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes layered with a rich, garlicky thyme-infused creamy sauce and plenty of melted cheddar cheese. Baked until tender and golden brown, this comforting dish is perfect as a hearty side for any meal.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for greasing the pan)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 4 garlic cloves, grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Potatoes and Assembly
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced ⅛-inch thick
- ½ medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1½ cups grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously butter a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and to add extra richness to the edges of the potatoes.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Whisk in the ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux, ensuring it doesn’t brown. Slowly add the 2 cups whole milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps, then pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth. Stir in the grated garlic, chopped thyme, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Continue to cook and whisk for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to lightly coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat.
- Layer the Potatoes: Begin by spreading half of the thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the thinly sliced yellow onion over the potatoes, then pour half of the prepared creamy sauce on top. Sprinkle 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese over the sauce.
- Repeat the Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, onions, sauce, and finish with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top to create a rich, cheesy crust as it bakes.
- Bake Covered and Uncovered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 35 to 40 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the cheese topping becomes golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them rest at room temperature for 20 minutes. This resting period helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes slicing easier for serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can use half-and-half instead of whole milk, but it will increase the fat content.
- If you prefer a stronger cheese taste, substitute some cheddar with Gruyère or Parmesan.
- Make sure to slice your potatoes uniformly thin (around ⅛ inch) for even cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven covered to prevent drying.
- To create a golden crust, broil the dish for 1-2 minutes after baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American