The scent of savory butter and garlic wafts through my kitchen, enveloping me in warmth and comfort. That’s the magic of Easy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin, a side dish that transforms any meal into a cozy feast. With golden layers of creamy potatoes and a bubbly, cheesy top, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal fuss—perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Imagine impressing your loved ones with a dish that’s not only delicious but also simple enough to prepare without meticulous sauce-making! Whether paired with roasted meats or enjoyed on their own, these scalloped potatoes are sure to satisfy your cravings for comforting, homemade bliss. What flavors will you add to make this recipe your own?

Why Are Scalloped Potatoes a Must-Serve?

Comforting, creamy layers of potatoes create a dish that everyone loves! This Easy Au Gratin Scalloped Potatoes recipe is effortless—no complicated sauce-making required. Golden, bubbly topping adds irresistible allure, making it a star at any table. Versatile pairing: Serve alongside grilled steak or roasted chicken for a winning combination. Plus, leftovers (if any) are perfect for quick reheating! For a twist, consider adding herbs or even mixing in veggies with other delicious potato recipes like Cheesy Taco Potatoes. Enjoy the comforting flavors in this delightful side dish!

Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin Ingredients

• Elevate your cooking with simple ingredients!

For the Potatoes

Red Potatoes (2.5 to 3 lb) – Waxy varieties hold their shape beautifully during baking, creating the perfect base for scalloped potatoes.
Onion (1) – Thinly slicing this will enhance the dish’s flavor and ensure even distribution throughout the layers.

For the Seasoning and Sauce

Salt and Ground Black Pepper – Essential for bringing out the flavors; use to taste for the best results in your scalloped potatoes au gratin.
Butter (4 tbsp) – Adds richness and promotes browning; margarine is a suitable alternative if you prefer!
Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic infuses the cheese sauce with wonderful aromatics, making it deliciously fragrant.
All-Purpose Flour (3 tbsp) – Helps to thicken the sauce; don’t hesitate to use gluten-free flour for a different option!
Dry Mustard Powder (1.5 tsp) – Optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor in the cheese sauce.

For the Creamy Base

Half-and-Half (2.5 cups) – Provides that sought-after creaminess; whole milk is an excellent lighter substitute if you need it.
Cheddar Cheese (1.5 cups, shredded) – The primary cheese for flavor; sharp cheddar will lend a more robust taste to your dish.
Gruyère Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Offers a delightful nutty flavor and fantastic melting qualities; feel free to use more cheddar if preferred.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This crucial step ensures that your Easy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin cooks evenly and develops that glorious golden crust. While the oven warms up, you will have some time to prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Scrub the red potatoes thoroughly under running water, then slice them into 1/8-inch rounds using a mandoline for precision. This uniform thickness helps the potatoes cook evenly and achieve the perfect tender texture. Keep the potato slices tidy and place them in a bowl to prevent browning.

Step 3: Slice the Onion
Next, thinly slice the onion, aiming for even, delicate pieces. This layering will enhance the flavor profile of your scalloped potatoes as they cook. Set the sliced onion aside, as it will be added between the layers of potato in the casserole dish.

Step 4: Butter the Casserole Dish
Take a 2.5-3 quart casserole dish and generously butter or grease it to prevent sticking. Arrange the potato and onion slices upright in stacks, creating beautiful layers that will bake to perfection. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully as they cook.

Step 5: Sauté the Garlic
In a saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it turns fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let it brown, as you want to maintain the fresh garlic flavor. This step creates a delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen.

Step 6: Make the Roux
Whisk in the flour with the melted butter and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should be bubbly but not browned. This roux will thicken your cheese sauce, ensuring the creamy texture of your Easy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin.

Step 7: Add the Cream and Seasoning
Gradually pour in the half-and-half while whisking continuously. Keep the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add dry mustard, salt, and pepper to season the sauce perfectly, enhancing the flavors of the final dish.

Step 8: Incorporate the Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheeses—both cheddar and Gruyère—until melted and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. This cheesy mixture is the heart of your scalloped potatoes, so ensure there are no lumps. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to make it just right.

Step 9: Combine Sauce and Potatoes
Pour the luscious cheese sauce evenly over the stacked potato and onion layers in the casserole dish. Make sure the sauce seeps through the layers to give each bite that comforting, creamy goodness. This is where the magic of Easy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin truly begins.

Step 10: Cover and Bake
Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil to prevent sticking and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. This initial covered baking allows the potatoes to steam and become tender while absorbing the flavors of the cream and cheese.

Step 11: Uncover and Continue Baking
After an hour, carefully remove the foil and continue baking the dish uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes. This will create a beautifully browned, bubbly top. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, indicating they are fully cooked.

Step 12: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, let the Easy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin cool for 15 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the layers settle and thicken, making for cleaner servings. Enjoy this delightful comfort food alongside your favorite main dishes!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin are ideal for meal prep, making your dinner routine smoother! You can slice the potatoes and onions up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in a bowl of cold water in the fridge to prevent browning. Additionally, you can prepare the cheese sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, layer the potato and onion stacks in your greased casserole dish, pour the chilled sauce over, cover with foil, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy all the delicious, comforting flavors without the last-minute rush!

Expert Tips for Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin

Slice Evenly: Ensure potato slices are uniform at 1/8 inch thick for even cooking. This helps avoid undercooked or mushy sections in your scalloped potatoes au gratin.
Cook the Roux Properly: Allow the roux to bubble for 2-3 minutes before adding cream. If not cooked long enough, it may result in a gritty texture in your sauce.
Monitor Oven Temperature: Resist the urge to crank up the heat for faster cooking. Instead, keep the temperature steady to ensure a perfectly baked and creamy interior without burning the top.
Rest Before Serving: Let the dish cool for 15 minutes post-baking. This resting time helps thicken the sauce, ensuring cleaner servings and a more cohesive texture.
Customize Flavors: Experiment with adding herbs like thyme or smoked paprika for a personal touch. Just be careful with seasoning—add sparingly to enhance the flavors of the scalloped potatoes au gratin without overpowering them.

What to Serve with Easy Au Gratin Scalloped Potatoes?

There’s nothing quite like the comforting, cheesy layers of scalloped potatoes to create a warm and inviting meal atmosphere.

Roasted Chicken: The savory, herb-infused chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy potatoes, balancing richness with lean protein.
Grilled Steak: Juicy, perfectly seared steak provides a robust flavor that complements the buttery, cheesy scalloped potatoes. This duo creates a satisfying, hearty meal.
Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender beans add a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the potatoes. Plus, they bring a pop of color to your plate!
Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the dish, providing balance.
Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread adds an irresistible element, great for scooping up any leftover cheese sauce. Each bite is a comforting delight!
Creamy Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw brings a refreshing twist, creating a perfect balance to the richness of the scalloped potatoes.
Apple Pie: Finish your meal with a slice of homemade apple pie for a quintessentially comforting dessert that complements the creamy main dish perfectly.

Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these scrumptious scalloped potatoes and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

Cheese Swap: Replace cheddar or Gruyère with Swiss cheese for a more delicate, mild flavor that still melts beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Add fragrant herbs like thyme or rosemary for a delightful twist, bringing a fresh, earthy note to each creamy bite.
Veggie Delight: Incorporate chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms for a nutrient boost that adds texture and flavor—perfect for sneakily introducing greens!
Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat that complements the creaminess—great for spicy food enthusiasts.
Creamy Alternatives: Swap out half-and-half for coconut milk for a dairy-free option that still delivers richness in flavor without compromise.
Topping Texture: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before the final bake for an irresistible crunchy topping reminiscent of comfort food classics.
Classic French Twist: Add a layer of sautéed leeks or shallots between the potato layers for a nod to traditional French recipes, enriching the flavor even further.
Sweet Potato Fusion: Blend in layers of thinly sliced sweet potatoes along with the red potatoes for a beautiful color contrast and a naturally sweeter flavor profile.

For even more delicious potato inspirations, check out these options like Cheesy Ranch Potatoes or Garlic Baby Potatoes that could elevate your next family meal!

Storage Tips for Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin

Fridge: Store any leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. This helps retain the rich flavors while keeping the dish fresh until you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze scalloped potatoes au gratin in single-serving portions for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn and maximize taste.
Reheating: To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened.
Cool Before Storing: Let your scalloped potatoes cool completely before transferring them to storage containers to maintain their creamy texture and flavor.

Easy Au Gratin Scalloped Potatoes Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes au gratin?
Absolutely! I recommend using red potatoes for scalloped potatoes au gratin. Their waxy texture helps maintain the shape during baking and enhances the overall creamy sensation you want in this dish. They slice beautifully and provide a delightful bite, so you can enjoy the layers even more!

How should I store leftovers of scalloped potatoes au gratin?
You can refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Make sure they cool down completely before sealing them. This helps retain that creamy goodness while you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Can I freeze scalloped potatoes au gratin and how do I do it?
Sure thing! To freeze scalloped potatoes au gratin, first let the dish cool completely. Then, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, or microwave individual servings after adding a splash of milk for a creamy restoration.

What should I do if my cheese sauce turns gritty or lumpy?
If your cheese sauce turns gritty, don’t fret! This usually means the roux wasn’t cooked long enough before adding the liquid. For the next time, ensure you cook the flour with the butter and garlic for a full 2-3 minutes until bubbly but not browned, allowing it to create a smooth base. For a lumpy sauce, whisk vigorously as you add your half-and-half, and take extra care to fully melt the cheese before pouring it over your potatoes.

Can I modify the recipe to be gluten-free or dairy-free?
Yes, very much! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option. For dairy-free scalloped potatoes au gratin, use a dairy-free cheese alternative and unsweetened almond or oat milk instead of half-and-half. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly, but you’ll still enjoy a delicious twist!