Description
A classic and creamy scalloped potatoes recipe featuring tender Yukon Gold potatoes layered with a rich garlic-thyme cheese sauce, baked until bubbly and golden brown. Perfect comfort food for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for 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
Main Ingredients
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (sliced â…›-inch thick)
- ½ medium yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- 1½ cups grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in ¼ cup all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups whole milk followed by 1 cup vegetable broth, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce. Add 4 grated garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme, 2 teaspoons sea salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Cook while whisking for 2 to 3 minutes, until the sauce thickens enough to lightly coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat.
- Layer the Potatoes: Spread half of the thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes at the bottom of the prepared dish. Evenly layer half of the thinly sliced yellow onion over the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the onions, then sprinkle 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat by layering the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce in the same order. Finish with the remaining ½ cup of grated cheddar cheese evenly sprinkled on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This helps the potatoes start cooking and absorb the flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 35 to 40 minutes. This allows the top to brown and become bubbly while ensuring the potatoes are tender throughout.
- Rest Before Serving: Once baked, let the scalloped potatoes stand at room temperature for 20 minutes. This resting time helps the dish set and makes it easier to serve.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and smooth slicing.
- Slicing potatoes uniformly (â…›-inch thick) ensures even cooking.
- For a sharper flavor, substitute cheddar with Gruyère or a mix of cheeses.
- Make sure to whisk the sauce continuously to prevent lumps in the roux.
- If preferred, add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for subtle warmth.
- Letting the dish rest before serving helps it firm up and improves slicing.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
