As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of simmering garlic danced through the air, instantly transporting me to cozy family dinners of my youth. It was then that I decided it was time to bring back a classic side dish: Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with Garlic and Thyme. This recipe is not just about indulgence; it’s a comforting embrace of tender Yukon gold potatoes layered in a velvety garlic cream sauce, perfect for any dinner table or festive gathering. The best part? It comes together with minimal effort, making it a hassle-free crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can easily customize it to fit dietary preferences or personal tastes. So, are you ready to elevate your side dish game and impress your loved ones?

Why are scalloped potatoes so beloved?

Comforting, these Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes offer a warm hug in every bite. Effortless, with minimal prep time, you’ll be savoring this comforting side in no time. Versatile, it can easily adapt to dietary needs, whether you want a creamy classic or a dairy-free delight. Flavorful, the garlic and thyme infuse the dish with aromatic richness, while the crispy Parmesan topping adds a delightful crunch. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats or grilled vegetables, making it a fantastic addition to any festive spread or weeknight dinner.

Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients

For the Potatoes
Yukon Gold Potatoes – These provide the perfect creamy texture; russet potatoes can be used for a fluffier bake.
For the Sauce
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the cream sauce.
Garlic – Use freshly minced for the best flavor and an aromatic punch.
All-Purpose Flour – Helps thicken the creamy sauce; substitute with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
Heavy Cream (or Whole Milk/Half & Half) – Creates a rich, silky sauce; half-and-half is a lighter option.
Parmesan Cheese – Provides sharp, nutty flavors and a golden crust; swap for cheddar or Gruyère for a different twist.
Fresh Thyme – Adds a lovely herbal note; dried thyme works well as an alternative.
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a ceramic baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the delicious Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes from sticking. This crucial first step ensures your dish bakes evenly and achieves that bubbly, golden top that everyone loves.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes
Peel the Yukon gold potatoes and slice them thinly, ideally using a mandoline for uniformity. Aim for approximately 1/8-inch thickness for even cooking. As you work, place the potato slices in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. This will keep your potatoes looking fresh and vibrant as you proceed with the recipe.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the freshly minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning. This step adds a rich flavor base for your creamy sauce, which will envelop the potato layers beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Roux
Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to form a roux. This mixture should begin to bubble gently and take on a slightly golden hue, which indicates that the flour is cooking properly. This roux will help thicken your creamy sauce later on.

Step 5: Whisk in Cream
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of heavy cream, ensuring to combine it smoothly with the roux. Continue cooking the mixture for about 5 minutes as it thickens slightly; you’re looking for a silky texture that will coat the back of a spoon. Stir lovingly, allowing the garlic flavors to meld beautifully with the cream.

Step 6: Add Seasonings
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, fresh thyme leaves, kosher salt, and black pepper to taste. As the cheese melts into the sauce, it will create a rich and creamy mixture, perfect for your Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes. Make sure everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 7: Coat the Potatoes
Add the sliced potatoes to the sauce in the pot and gently toss to coat each slice evenly. This step is vital as it ensures every potato will bask in the luxurious garlic and cheese sauce, providing consistent flavor throughout the dish. You should see the potatoes beautifully glistening in the creamy mixture.

Step 8: Assemble the Dish
Carefully arrange the coated potato slices upright in the greased baking dish. Pour any leftover sauce evenly over the potatoes, ensuring they are well-covered. For an extra crispy finish, sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on top, making it a delightful crust as it bakes to perfection.

Step 9: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. You’ll know the Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are done when they’re bubbling and golden on top, exuding tantalizing aromas.

Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the sauce thicken and settle, ensuring beautiful presentation. Your creamy scalloped potatoes are now ready to be enjoyed, promising a comforting experience that pairs wonderfully with your favorite meals.

Tips for the Best Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for creaminess, but russets or red potatoes can be used depending on your preference.
Prevent Curdling: Make sure the sauce thickens before adding the potatoes. If not, it may curdle and ruin the smooth texture.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and herbs like thyme greatly enhance flavor, making your Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes unforgettable.
Ultimate Cheese Crust: For a decadent topping, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese before baking, achieving a beautifully crispy layer that is a crowd favorite.
Make Ahead Blues: For convenience, prepare your scalloped potatoes a night in advance. Just refrigerate and bake them before serving for optimum flavor.
Toss Gently: When coating the potatoes in the sauce, do it gently to keep the slices intact for an attractive presentation.

Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to suit your taste buds or dietary needs—your perfect scalloped potatoes await!

Dairy-Free: Use almond milk thickened with cornstarch in place of heavy cream for a delicious, creamy texture without dairy. The flavor remains rich, making your dish suitable for lactose-sensitive friends.
Flavored Potato Layers: Swap Yukon golds for russet or even purple potatoes for a colorful twist. Each variety brings a unique texture and taste, adding fun to the table.
Cheesy Alternatives: Replace Parmesan with cheddar or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. The meltiness of these cheeses creates an inviting, creamy layer that kids and cheese lovers will adore.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh rosemary or parsley instead of thyme for a fragrant twist. This will elevate the aromatic quality of your dish and provide a new taste experience.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat. This little boost will make your scalloped potatoes stand out and keep things interesting!
Savory Layering: For extra heartiness, layer in sautéed mushrooms or cooked chicken between potato layers. This makes it more filling and turns your side into a comforting main course.
Nutty Brown Crust: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top along with cheese for added crunch. Toasted to golden perfection, they offer a delightful contrast to the creamy interior.
Creamy Garlic Boost: Add roasted garlic instead of fresh garlic for a sweeter, deeper flavor. A simple step that adds an incredible richness to your creamy sauce, bringing warmth to every bite.

If you love this combination of flavors, try pairing your scalloped potatoes with some Garlic Butter Potatoes or serve alongside a delightful side of Peppercorn Sauce Transforms for a feast your family won’t forget!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes are a perfect choice for busy weeknights or holiday meals, allowing you to prep ahead and focus on other cooking tasks. You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate to keep the flavors vibrant. To maintain the creamy richness, ensure the sauce coats the potato slices well before storing. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just pop the baking dish into a preheated oven and bake according to the original instructions; you’ll still achieve that golden, bubbling perfection just as if you made them fresh!

What to Serve with Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Indulging in creamy, cheesy goodness is just the beginning; let’s create a memorable meal that delights all the senses.

Roast Chicken: Juicy, savory roast chicken provides a wonderful balance, complementing the richness of the scalloped potatoes.
Grilled Asparagus: The bright, tender stalks of asparagus add a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the potatoes.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots caramelized with honey offer a delightful burst of flavor, enhancing your meal’s overall sweetness and visual appeal.
Beef Tenderloin: Rich and succulent, the bold flavors of a perfectly cooked beef tenderloin elevate the dish, providing a satisfying experience that feels luxurious.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette introduces a refreshing element to balance the hearty potatoes.
Chardonnay: A glass of crisp Chardonnay pairs wonderfully, complementing both the creaminess of the potatoes and the seasoning of any main dish.
Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce, making it a delightful addition to your table.
Fruit Tart: End on a sweet note with a fresh fruit tart; its vibrant flavors and textures will enchant everyone after a rich, hearty meal.

Storage Tips for Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the scalloped potatoes for up to 2 months. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 25-30 minutes. This will help maintain the creamy texture of the dish.

Make-Ahead: Assemble the Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving for a hassle-free experience.

Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes?
Absolutely! For a creamy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choice. They hold their shape well and contribute richness to the dish. If you’d like something fluffier, russet potatoes can be a great alternative, but they’ll yield a slightly different texture in the final dish.

How should I store leftover scalloped potatoes?
Very! Once cooled, transfer your leftover Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid any moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.

Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
Absolutely ! To freeze, first cool the scalloped potatoes completely. Then, wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 25-30 minutes.

What can I do if my scalloped potatoes curdle?
Oh no! If your sauce curdles, don’t add the potatoes just yet. Instead, strain the mixture to get rid of any lumps and return the smooth sauce to the pot over low heat. Whisk in a little more cream or milk gradually. This should help restore the silky texture before adding your potatoes.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Very much! You can substitute the heavy cream with almond milk thickened with cornstarch for a dairy-free version. For richness, try adding a little nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, and make sure to select dairy-free cheese alternatives, which can also provide that melty goodness on top.

How can I make ahead for a gathering?
Absolutely! You can assemble your Easy Creamy Scalloped Potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover the dish tightly with foil and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven and bake as directed. This makes for a hassle-free experience on your special day!