Never-Fail Scalloped Potatoes – Creamy, Easy, and Foolproof

🌟 Why These Scalloped Potatoes Are a Must-Make

• Guaranteed results: No curdling, no watery layers—just perfect every time.
• Simple pantry staples: No exotic ingredients, just real food.
• Perfectly creamy: Each layer is drenched in savory goodness.
• Customizable: Add cheese, herbs, or bacon for your own twist.
• Freezer- and meal prep–friendly.

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🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2½ lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Optional: 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese
• Optional: ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes

• Peel and slice the potatoes into 1/8-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline.

2. Make the Cream Sauce

• In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
• Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
• Slowly add milk and cream, whisking constantly.
• Stir in salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Simmer until thickened (5–7 minutes).
• Stir in cheese if using, until melted and smooth.

3. Assemble the Dish

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Layer half the potatoes and onions. Pour half the sauce over.
• Add remaining potatoes and sauce. Tap dish to settle layers.

4. Bake

• Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
• Uncover and bake another 20–30 minutes until top is golden and bubbly.
• Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

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🧀 Flavor Variations

• Cheesy Twist: Add sharp cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère.
• Smoky Style: Add cooked chopped turkey bacon.
• Herb-Loaded: Use fresh thyme, sage, or chives.
• Garlic-Parmesan: Add roasted garlic and grated Parmesan.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

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🍽️ What to Serve With Scalloped Potatoes

• Roast beef or pork tenderloin
• Glazed ham or turkey
• Grilled chicken or salmon
• Steamed green beans or sautéed spinach
• Garden salad with vinaigrette

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📦 Storage and Freezing

• Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 5 days
• Freeze: Let cool completely, wrap tightly, freeze up to 3 months
• Reheat: Bake covered at 350°F until warmed through or microwave in portions

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📊 Nutritional Info (Per Serving Approx.)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fiber: 3g

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🧠 Pro Tips

• Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for best texture.
• Slice potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
• Let sauce thicken before layering—it prevents runny results.
• Bake uncovered at the end for a beautifully browned top.
• Don’t rush the rest time—it helps the sauce set properly.

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❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use milk only?
Yes—use all milk for a lighter version, but whole milk is best for creaminess.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely—prepare fully and refrigerate up to 2 days before reheating.

Q: Do scalloped potatoes have cheese?
Traditionally no, but many modern versions include cheese for extra richness.

Q: What if I don’t have a mandoline?
Use a sharp knife and take your time. Consistency is key.

Q: Can I add meat?
Yes—try diced ham, shredded chicken, or cooked ground beef.

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✅ Conclusion: Your New Go-To Side Dish

This Never-Fail Scalloped Potatoes recipe delivers creamy, flavorful, comforting results every single time. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and truly hard to mess up. Whether you’re feeding a holiday crowd or prepping weekday leftovers, this dish has earned its “never-fail” title with flying colors.

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