Scalloped Potatoes with Cheddar and Thyme Recipe

Scalloped Potatoes with Cheddar and Thyme Recipe

12 servings
Classic creamy and cheesy scalloped potatoes made with thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes layered with a garlic-thyme white sauce and melted cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. This comforting side dish is perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

  • unsalted butter

    plus more for the pan

    3 tbsp
  • all-purpose flour
    ¼ c
  • whole milk
    2 c
  • vegetable broth
    1 c
  • garlic cloves
    4
  • fresh thyme leaves
    1 tbsp
  • sea salt
    2 tsp
  • ground black pepper
    ½ tsp
  • Yukon Gold potatoes
    3 lb
  • yellow onion
    ½ medium
  • cheddar cheese
    1 ½ c

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.

  2. 2

    In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in ¼ cup of flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add 2 cups of whole milk followed by 1 cup of vegetable broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in the grated garlic, chopped thyme, 2 teaspoons sea salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Continue cooking and whisking for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat.

  3. 3

    Place half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the thinly sliced onions on top. Pour half of the prepared white sauce evenly over the potatoes and onions, then sprinkle 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese over the sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, sauce, and finish with ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.

  4. 4

    Cover the baking dish with foil or a lid and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This step allows the potatoes to begin cooking evenly and absorb the flavors.

  5. 5

    Remove the cover and continue baking for an additional 35 to 40 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.

  6. 6

    Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken and makes the dish easier to serve.

Scalloped Potatoes with Cheddar and Thyme Recipe

Scalloped Potatoes with Cheddar and Thyme Recipe

90 min12 servings

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About this Recipe

The Ultimate Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Thyme

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our irresistible Scalloped Potatoes with Cheddar and Thyme Recipe. This classic side dish transforms humble potatoes into a show-stopping creation, perfect for family dinners or elegant holiday gatherings. Imagine thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes, known for their creamy texture, generously layered with a rich, aromatic garlic-thyme white sauce, and blanketed in melted, gooey cheddar cheese. Baked to golden perfection, every forkful is pure bliss.

What makes this recipe truly special is the harmonious blend of flavors. The fresh thyme and grated garlic infuse the creamy sauce with an earthy, savory depth that perfectly complements the sharp tang of the cheddar. The thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes absorb all that deliciousness, becoming incredibly tender without turning mushy. This isn't just any pan of cheesy potatoes; it's a culinary experience designed to impress.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes:

  • Even Slices: For consistent cooking, slice your potatoes as evenly as possible, ideally ⅛-inch thick. A mandoline slicer can be a huge help here!
  • Layering is Key: Take your time to layer the potatoes, sauce, and cheese evenly. This ensures every bite is balanced.
  • Don't Rush the Bake: Allow ample time for the potatoes to become fork-tender and the cheese to bubble and brown beautifully. Covering the dish for the initial bake helps steam the potatoes to tenderness.

Serving Suggestions & Variations:

These baked potatoes are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, a holiday ham, grilled steak, or a succulent pork loin. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider adding:

  • Crispy Bacon: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon between layers or on top.
  • Different Cheeses: Experiment with Gruyere, Fontina, or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the white sauce for a subtle kick.

Get ready to elevate your meal with this profoundly satisfying and utterly delicious Scalloped Potatoes with Cheddar and Thyme!

Frequently Asked Questions