Thinly sliced golden potatoes baked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce and topped with melted Parmesan, forming crispy edges and a soft, indulgent center. This classic side dish brings both elegance and comfort to any table, making it ideal for festive holiday spreads or a cozy family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are a timeless favorite for good reason. The layers of tender potatoes soaked in a velvety cream sauce are perfectly seasoned with garlic, thyme, and nutmeg, while the golden crust of Parmesan adds a savory depth. This dish is simple to prepare, but impressive in flavor and appearance. It’s versatile, crowd-pleasing, and pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, or vegetarian mains.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (plus more for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 10-inch round or 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Heat until just about to simmer, then remove from heat.
4. Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in an overlapping spiral or layered pattern in the prepared baking dish.
5. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes and sprinkle with half of the grated Parmesan and fresh thyme.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheese.
7. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional thyme if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 65–70 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheese options: Substitute or combine Parmesan with Gruyère, mozzarella, or cheddar for a richer flavor.
• Add onions: Layer thinly sliced onions between the potatoes for added sweetness and texture.
• Herb substitutions: Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme, or mix fresh herbs for complexity.
• Bacon scalloped potatoes: Add cooked, crumbled bacon between layers for a smoky, savory twist.
• Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the cheese slightly.

storage/reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Avoid reheating uncovered in the oven to prevent drying out.

This dish can also be made a day in advance and reheated before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving or reheat it if already baked.

What’s the best way to slice the potatoes?

Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to get even, thin slices (about 1/8 inch thick) for uniform cooking.

Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture may become grainy. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

What type of potatoes are best?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best due to their starch content and ability to hold shape while baking.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes, cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken can be added between layers for a more filling version.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just confirm that all ingredients, especially the cheese, are free of additives containing gluten.

Can I use milk only instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. A mix of milk and cream gives the best texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the potatoes from curdling?

Make sure not to boil the cream mixture, and use full-fat dairy to reduce the risk of curdling.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with roasted meats, chicken, turkey, or a green vegetable side like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred as pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are a classic comfort food that elevate any meal with their rich flavor and luxurious texture. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday gathering or a simple family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a side dish that offers both elegance and heartiness in every bite.

Print