Description

This Best Scalloped Potatoes Recipe features thinly sliced Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes baked in a rich and creamy garlic-infused heavy cream sauce, layered with sharp cheddar cheese, and topped with a crispy buttery panko breadcrumb crust. The dish is perfect as a comforting side that offers a balance of smooth, cheesy layers with a golden, crunchy topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced

Cream Mixture

2 cups heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese and Topping

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
4 tbsp unsalted butter, sliced (for melting with breadcrumbs)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and facilitate easy serving.
Slice Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes carefully. Using a knife or mandoline, slice them into thin, even layers ensuring uniform cooking and a creamy texture in the final dish.
Make Cream Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create a rich and flavorful cream sauce that will infuse the potatoes during baking.
Layer Ingredients: Begin by layering a portion of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Pour some of the cream mixture over the potatoes and sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat this layering process until all the potatoes, cream, and cheese are used, distributing evenly.
Add Topping: Mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top layer of potatoes to create a crispy and golden crust once baked.
Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This step allows the potatoes to steam and become tender.
Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. This allows the topping to brown to a golden crisp, and the cheese to bubble and slightly brown.

Notes

For best results, slice potatoes uniformly thin to ensure even cooking.
You can substitute Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
If you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
To make the topping extra golden, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to firm up for easier slicing.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes, baked potatoes, creamy potatoes, potato casserole, comfort food