Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Creamy scalloped potatoes feature tender, thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, flavorful cream sauce infused with onion, nutmeg, and subtle spices. Perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings, this dish offers a velvety texture and aromatic flavor that complements roasted meats or vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine chopped onion, chicken broth, heavy cream, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg.
- Wash potatoes, then cut into 1/4-inch slices and arrange in overlapping pattern in the prepared baking dish.
- Gently pour the broth mixture over the sliced potatoes.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and baste the potatoes with the juices in the pan.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 45 minutes until golden and tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding grated cheese between the layers of potatoes, like sharp cheddar or Gruyère. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk. Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly for consistent cooking. You can also experiment with adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy scalloped potatoes make a perfect side dish for roasted meats or serve them alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter meal. They pair beautifully with dishes like Herbed Chicken Casserole or Louisiana Chicken Wings. Consider garnishing with fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the texture may not be as creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Scalloped Potatoes contains roughly 357 calories, with 5g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1244mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, while russet potatoes are commonly used, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Each type will give a slightly different texture and flavor. Just ensure they are cut into uniform slices for even cooking.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking and cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free milk alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adjust the seasonings to taste, as some dairy-free milks can be sweeter.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).