Ultimate Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with Sour Cream & Cheese
There’s nothing quite like a comforting dish of perfectly baked, ultra-creamy, and incredibly cheesy scalloped potatoes. This isn’t just any side dish; it’s a culinary hug that brings warmth and joy to any table, whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a cozy Sunday dinner with loved ones. Our signature recipe takes simple ingredients – fresh potatoes, a luscious sour cream and cheese sauce, and a touch of fragrant fresh thyme – and transforms them into an unforgettable culinary experience.
What truly sets this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe apart is the subtle yet transformative addition of fresh thyme. While many recipes rely solely on cheese for flavor, the earthy, peppery notes of thyme cut through the richness of the creamy, cheesy sauce, elevating the dish from simply good to absolutely extraordinary. This simple herb is a genuine game-changer, infusing every bite with a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for your secret.
Why This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is a Must-Try
This particular sour cream scalloped potatoes recipe has become a cherished go-to in my kitchen, especially during special occasions like Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply for a comforting family meal. Its undeniable appeal lies in its rich flavor profile and its ability to complement a wide array of main courses.
Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also wonderfully versatile. If you’re pondering what delightful main dish to serve alongside these glorious potatoes, consider some of our family favorites. They pair exquisitely with our Cornflake Chicken, offer a perfect counterpoint to a juicy Grilled California Chicken, or stand proudly next to the best Slow Cooker Pot Roast. For a truly unforgettable meal, try them with our personal favorite, Monterey Chicken. The possibilities are endless when you have such a versatile and beloved side dish!
A Love Affair with Potatoes and Cheese
If you’re as passionate about potato dishes as we are, then you’ve come to the right place. Around here, the combination of cheese and potatoes is, quite frankly, a big deal! We have an extensive collection of potato recipes you’re sure to adore. Dive into our scalloped potatoes with ham for a heartier meal, or explore the delights of a classic cheesy potato casserole. For those who love the convenience of slow cooking, we also offer a fantastic slow cooker potato casserole and a dedicated slow cooker scalloped potatoes recipe. Each promises cheesy, comforting goodness that will satisfy any potato craving.
Video Guide: Mastering Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
For visual learners and those who appreciate seeing each step come to life, we’ve prepared a comprehensive video tutorial. Follow along as we demonstrate exactly how to create these incredible homemade scalloped potatoes, ensuring your dish turns out perfectly golden, tender, and irresistibly cheesy every time. Watch the video below to gain confidence and pick up valuable tips for mastering this classic side dish.
Essential Ingredients for Sour Cream Scalloped Potatoes
Crafting the perfect cheesy scalloped potatoes begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that creamy texture and rich, savory flavor that makes this dish so universally loved. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each choice matters:
- Potatoes: The foundation of our dish! While almost any potato can be used, we highly recommend Russet potatoes for their starchy texture that helps create a wonderfully creamy sauce. Yukon Gold or red potatoes are also excellent choices, offering a slightly waxier texture that holds its shape beautifully. Choose what you prefer, but ensure they are fresh and firm.
- Broth: A secret weapon for adding moisture and depth of flavor without extra calories. Chicken broth is our preferred choice, lending a savory base to the sauce. However, vegetable broth is an equally excellent substitute, making this recipe easily adaptable for different dietary preferences while maintaining its deliciousness.
- Sour Cream: This is where the magic happens for that signature creaminess and delightful tangy zest that defines our sour cream scalloped potatoes. It balances the richness of the cheese beautifully, creating a complex and incredibly satisfying flavor profile. Don’t skimp on the quality here!
- Cheese: A critical element for that irresistible gooey, golden top and flavorful layers. Using pre-shredded cheese can simplify preparation, but freshly grated cheese always melts more smoothly. We love a blend of sharp cheddar for its robust flavor and Parmesan for its salty, nutty notes. Feel free to experiment with other favorites like white cheddar, gouda, or gruyere to customize your cheesy experience. The more cheese, the better!
- Garlic: To infuse our potatoes with an aromatic punch, we use garlic salt. This convenient ingredient provides a consistent garlic flavor throughout the dish without the need for chopping fresh cloves. For an even more intense flavor, you can certainly add a clove or two of minced fresh garlic.
- Onion: Similar to garlic, onion powder offers a quick and easy way to incorporate that essential onion flavor without the fuss of chopping and sautéing. It blends seamlessly into the sauce, providing a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
- Thyme: As mentioned, fresh thyme is the star herb in this recipe. Its unique aromatic qualities pair exceptionally well with potatoes and cheese, elevating the entire dish. If you grow it in your garden, a fresh sprig is perfect. If fresh isn’t available, dried thyme can be used in a pinch; simply use about one-third of the amount of fresh.
- Black Pepper: A simple seasoning that enhances all the other flavors, adding a subtle warmth and a hint of spice. Freshly ground pepper is always recommended for the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Scalloped Potatoes
Creating these divine scalloped potatoes with sour cream is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these detailed steps for a perfectly golden, tender, and cheesy side dish:
- Prepare Your Baking Dish: Start by lightly spraying a 9″ x 13″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prep the Potatoes: Wash your potatoes thoroughly. Deciding whether to peel them is a matter of personal preference. Russet potatoes have a thicker skin, so peeling is often recommended for a smoother texture. For Yukon Gold or red potatoes, their skins are more tender and can be left on, adding a rustic look and extra nutrients. If serving to picky eaters, peeling might be best.
- Slice the Potatoes: The key to evenly cooked and beautifully layered scalloped potatoes is consistent slicing. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 to 1/4 inch. A mandoline slicer is ideal for achieving uniform slices, but a sharp knife and a steady hand will also do the trick.
- Craft the Creamy Sauce: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option), sour cream, half of your shredded cheddar cheese, all of the Parmesan cheese, garlic salt, onion powder, fresh thyme, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined and smooth. This is the heart of your cheesy goodness!
- First Layer: Potatoes and Sauce: Spread half of your thinly sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Next, generously pour half of the creamy sauce mixture over this first layer of potatoes, ensuring they are well coated.
- Second Layer: More Potatoes, Sauce & Cheese: Arrange the remaining sliced potatoes over the first sauced layer. Pour the rest of the creamy sauce over these potatoes. Finally, sprinkle the remaining half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, creating a magnificent cheesy crust as it bakes.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake in your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for approximately 1 hour. At this point, the edges and top should be golden brown, and the potatoes should be soft when gently poked with a fork. To achieve that beautiful golden-brown, bubbly cheese topping, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly browned and the potatoes are fork-tender. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly before the potatoes are tender, simply re-cover the dish with foil.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Let the cheesy scalloped potatoes cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making for easier, cleaner servings. Then, dig in and savor every creamy, cheesy bite!
Frequently Asked Questions About Scalloped Potatoes
Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Scalloped potatoes are an excellent make-ahead dish, perfect for holiday meal prep or busy weeknights. You can assemble them completely, up to two days in advance, following all the directions but without baking. Store the unbaked dish tightly covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remember to bring the dish to room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before placing it in a hot oven. This prevents thermal shock, which could cause your baking dish to crack.
What is the difference between au gratin potatoes and scalloped potatoes?
This is a common question, and while both are comforting potato casseroles, there are subtle distinctions. Traditionally, scalloped potatoes are made with thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce, often milk or cream-based, with no cheese between the layers (though many modern recipes, like ours, do include it for extra deliciousness). Potatoes au gratin, on the other hand, always feature layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce, but crucially, they include cheese between each layer and often a breadcrumb topping, resulting in an even more decadent dish. Additionally, potatoes for au gratin are typically sliced slightly thinner than those for scalloped potatoes. Regardless of the name, both are delightful comfort foods we wholeheartedly endorse!
How can I tell if my scalloped potatoes are done?
The best way to determine if your homemade scalloped potatoes are perfectly cooked is by checking for fork-tenderness. Insert a fork into the center of the dish; the potatoes should be soft and easily pierced, practically falling off the fork. If they still feel firm or resistant, continue baking in 15-20 minute intervals until they reach the desired tenderness. Remember, undercooked potatoes can ruin the experience, so patience is key!
How long do you cook scalloped potatoes at 350 degrees?
When baking at 350°F (175°C), scalloped potatoes typically require about 1 hour of baking time, covered loosely with foil. This initial period allows the potatoes to soften evenly in the creamy sauce. After an hour, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top and edges are beautifully golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. If the cheese starts to get too dark before the potatoes are tender, simply re-cover the dish with foil.
How long to cook scalloped potatoes at 400 degrees?
If you prefer to bake your scalloped potatoes at a higher temperature, 400°F (200°C), you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Then, uncover the dish and continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the top to become golden brown and crispy. Always ensure the potatoes are fully tender before serving.
Can you make scalloped potatoes with red potatoes?
Absolutely! Red potatoes are an excellent choice for scalloped potatoes. They have a slightly waxy texture that holds its shape well during baking, and their skin is thin enough that you can choose to leave it on for a rustic appearance and added texture, or peel them if you prefer. The recipe will work wonderfully with red potatoes, yielding a slightly different but equally delicious result.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Scalloped Potatoes
Achieving consistently perfect creamy scalloped potatoes is easy with a few insider tips. These suggestions will help ensure your dish is a showstopper every time:
- Slice Potatoes Evenly: Uniformly thin slices are paramount. They ensure that all potatoes cook at the same rate, preventing some from being undercooked while others are mushy. A mandoline slicer is highly recommended for precision, but a sharp chef’s knife and careful technique will also work. Aim for 1/8 to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Don’t Rush the Bake: If your potatoes are still firm after the recommended baking time, don’t hesitate to extend the cooking. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from over-browning, and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until they are truly fork-tender. Undercooked potatoes are the biggest pitfall!
- Hold Warm for Serving: If your potatoes finish baking earlier than your main course, simply cover the dish tightly with foil and keep it in a warm oven (around 150-200°F or 65-95°C) until you’re ready to serve. This will keep them warm and delicious without drying them out.
- Revive the Cheese Topping: Should the cheese on top brown excessively before the potatoes are fully tender, carefully peel off the overly browned layer. Then, sprinkle a fresh layer of shredded cheese over the top and return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for a short period until the new cheese layer is golden and bubbly.
- Season Generously: Potatoes absorb a lot of flavor. Don’t be shy with your seasoning, especially salt and pepper. Taste your sauce before assembling to ensure it’s well-seasoned.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the baked potatoes to rest for at least 5-10 minutes after removing them from the oven. This allows the creamy sauce to thicken and set, making it easier to serve neat, beautiful portions.
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
This Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a family favorite! It’s the perfect homemade scalloped potatoes recipe for Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any family dinner. Indulge in layers of thinly sliced potatoes enveloped in a rich, tangy sour cream and cheese sauce, baked until golden and bubbly.
Author: The Carefree Kitchen
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hr 15 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins
Yields: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 pounds potatoes (Russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes)
- 1½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (finely chopped)
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly spray a 9″ x 13″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
- Wash, peel (optional, depending on potato type), and slice potatoes into even 1/8″ – 1/4″ thick rounds. Set aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth (or vegetable broth), sour cream, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, all of the Parmesan cheese, garlic salt, onion powder, fresh thyme, and black pepper. Whisk until thoroughly combined.
- Spread half of the sliced potatoes evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pour half of the creamy sauce mixture over the potatoes, ensuring good coverage.
- Layer the remaining sliced potatoes over the first sauced layer. Pour the rest of the creamy sauce over these potatoes, then sprinkle the remaining half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the edges and top begin to turn golden brown and the potatoes are tender when poked with a fork. Remove the foil and continue to cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is beautifully golden brown and bubbly. If the cheese browns too quickly, simply re-cover with foil.
- Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making serving easier and more appealing. Enjoy your delicious creamy scalloped potatoes!
Video
Nutrition
Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimations calculated using a third-party tool and may vary.
- Calories: 188kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 48mg
- Sodium: 991mg
- Potassium: 82mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 607IU
- Vitamin C: 1mg
- Calcium: 250mg
- Iron: 1mg
Sharing this recipe with a link is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying/pasting and/or screenshots of full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited. Content and photographs are copyright protected.
Did you make this?
Don’t forget to leave a rating below and make sure to follow us on Pinterest, Instagram and Tiktok for more delicious recipes and kitchen tips!
More Irresistible Potato Recipes
If you’re anything like us, your love for potatoes knows no bounds! Beyond these spectacular creamy scalloped potatoes, our kitchen is overflowing with other delightful potato creations that are sure to become new family favorites. Explore these incredible recipes:
- 3 Cheese Twice Baked Potatoes
- Loaded Baked Potato Skins Recipe
- Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Slow Cooker Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes
- Cheesy Breakfast Hash Browns
- Easy Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes
- Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
- Classic Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Potato Casserole)
- Discover even more Potato Recipes
- Explore our Best Holiday Recipes for your next festive gathering.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Cheesy Potato Side Dish
This truly is the best scalloped potato recipe you’ll ever make. These creamy baked potatoes, with their thinly sliced layers, rich cheese, tangy sour cream, and aromatic herbs, create a symphony of flavors and textures that will impress everyone at your table. If you’ve ever wondered how to make scalloped potatoes in the oven that are consistently perfect and utterly delicious, then this comprehensive guide and recipe is precisely what you need. Prepare to make this comforting classic a regular star in your culinary repertoire – it’s more than just a side; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. Happy cooking!