Scalloped Potatoes | Creamy, Cheesy, Classic Comfort Food

Introduction: A Timeless Potato Bake for Every Occasion

Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food — tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, often cheesy sauce until bubbling and golden on top. This classic dish is perfect as a hearty side for Sunday roasts, festive meals, or any time you need something warm and satisfying. With just a handful of simple ingredients, scalloped potatoes deliver rich flavour and crowd-pleasing texture.

What Are Scalloped Potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes are made by layering thin slices of potato in a baking dish, then covering them with a creamy sauce — typically a mixture of milk or cream, butter, and seasoning. They’re slowly baked until soft, golden, and bubbling.

Unlike potato gratin (which often includes cheese in the layers), traditional scalloped potatoes are cheese-free — though modern versions frequently add cheese for extra richness.

Why You’ll Love Scalloped Potatoes

🥔 Comforting and Creamy – Layers of melt-in-your-mouth potatoes
🧄 Simple Ingredients – No fancy equipment or techniques needed
🧀 Customisable – Add cheese, garlic, herbs, or bacon to make it your own
🍽️ Perfect Side Dish – Works with everything from roast lamb to baked salmon

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

1kg potatoes (Maris Piper or King Edward), peeled and thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp plain flour
500ml whole milk or a mix of milk and cream
1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: 100g grated cheese (cheddar or Gruyère), thyme, or chopped chives

How to Make Scalloped Potatoes – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan).
Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until smooth.
Add garlic, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish.
Pour over half the sauce.
Repeat with remaining potatoes and top with the rest of the sauce.
Sprinkle with cheese if using.

Step 4: Bake

Cover loosely with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for a further 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.

Serving Suggestions

With Roast Meats: Lamb, beef, pork, or chicken
Alongside Veggies: Green beans, carrots, or a crisp salad
At Christmas or Easter: As a luxurious side dish
On Its Own: Served with crusty bread and a leafy salad

Tips for Success

Use a mandoline for evenly thin potato slices
Don’t skip the roux – it helps the sauce cling to the potatoes
Use starchy potatoes for the creamiest result
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to firm up the layers

Make-Ahead & Storage

Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready
Store leftovers: In the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat: Covered in the oven at 160°C or in the microwave
Freeze: Fully baked and cooled scalloped potatoes freeze well for up to 1 month

Variations

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Add grated cheddar or Gruyère between layers
Garlic and Herb: Infuse the sauce with rosemary or thyme
Loaded Version: Add crispy bacon, spring onions, or sautéed mushrooms
Cream Swap: Use oat milk or dairy-free cream for a vegan version

Conclusion

Scalloped potatoes are a timeless side dish that bring richness, comfort, and elegance to the table. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or simply indulging in a quiet night at home, this easy-to-make bake is guaranteed to satisfy. Creamy, golden, and endlessly customisable — once you make them, you’ll want them with every roast dinner.