BEST SCALLOPED POTATOES EVER

🧄 Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 4 large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, finely diced (optional but highly recommended)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and cheddar for richer flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if you have it)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

🥣 Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, forming a smooth roux.
   Gradually whisk in the milk and cream until smooth. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
   Stir in the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and fold in 1½ cups of cheese until melted and velvety.
3. Layer the Potatoes:
   Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper, then pour half the cheese sauce evenly over the top.
   Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce. Top with the remaining ½ cup of cheese.
4. Bake to Perfection:
   Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Rest and Serve:
   Let the scalloped potatoes rest for about 10 minutes before serving — this helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve.

💡 Tips for Success

• Slice Evenly: Thin, uniform slices ensure the potatoes cook evenly. A mandoline slicer works perfectly.
• Mix Up the Cheese: Try adding Gruyère, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for extra flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the dish a day in advance and bake just before serving.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

These scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats like ham, turkey, or prime rib. Add a green salad or roasted vegetables on the side for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.

❤️ The Verdict

When you pull this dish from the oven — golden, bubbling, and fragrant — you’ll know why it’s called the Best Scalloped Potatoes Ever. Comforting, cheesy, and impossibly creamy, this recipe is destined to become a family favorite for years to come.