Do you need to rinse potatoes for scalloped potatoes?

Rinsing sliced potatoes removes excess starch, preventing them from becoming gummy during baking and resulting in a smoother sauce. It's generally recommended, especially for classic scalloped potatoes.

What is the best cheese to use for scalloped potatoes?

While classic scalloped potatoes don't traditionally include cheese, sharp cheddar is a popular and flavorful addition. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses also work well.

What is the best potato for scalloped potatoes?

Russet potatoes are a great choice for scalloped potatoes because they are high in starch and hold their shape well during baking. Yukon Gold potatoes are another good option, offering a slightly creamier texture.

What's the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes?

The main difference is cheese! Scalloped potatoes are typically made with a creamy sauce but without cheese, while au gratin potatoes always include cheese, often layered between the potato slices and on top.

How do you keep scalloped potatoes from drying out?

Ensure enough liquid (milk, cream, or broth) is used to cover the potatoes partially. Covering the dish with foil during the initial baking period also helps retain moisture. Remove the foil during the last 15-20 minutes to allow the top to brown.

Why are my scalloped potatoes watery?

This can happen if too much liquid is used, or if the potatoes release a lot of moisture during cooking. Rinsing the potatoes before baking can help reduce starch and prevent excess liquid. Also, be sure to use the correct amount of thickening agent (flour or cornstarch) in your sauce.

Classic Scalloped Potatoes With the Ultimate Creamy Texture 2026

Name: Classic Scalloped Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-493462H42M55S
Total time: PT-493462H42M55S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick); 3 cups heavy cream; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg; 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for greasing the dish

Classic Scalloped Potatoes

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Layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, garlic-infused cream and Gruyère cheese until golden and bubbling. This ultimate comfort food dish is creamy, luxurious, and perfect for holidays or cozy family dinners.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 20min
Cook Time: 1h 15min
Total Time: 1h 35min
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: dinner
Method: baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
3 cups heavy cream
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for greasing the dish

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large saucepan, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Warm over medium heat until small bubbles form at the edges. Do not boil. Remove from heat.
Arrange a single, slightly overlapping layer of potato slices in the buttered dish. Pour enough warm cream mixture to moisten well. Sprinkle with a handful of cheese.
Repeat layering: potatoes, cream, cheese, until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Cover dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes.
Carefully remove foil. Continue baking, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes, until top is golden brown, sauce is bubbling, and potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.
Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.

Notes

For even slicing, use a mandoline. Letting the dish rest is crucial for clean slices. To make ahead, assemble, cover, and refrigerate overnight before baking. Can be frozen before baking for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 8
Calories: 520
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 450
Fat: 38
Saturated Fat: 23
Unsaturated Fat: 12
Trans Fat: 1
Carbohydrates: 35
Fiber: 3
Protein: 12
Cholesterol: 135

Find it online: https://www.homestyletable.com/classic-scalloped-potatoes/