There's nothing quite like a dish of creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes to warm the soul. This recipe combines rich cheeses and fragrant herbs with tender potatoes for a comforting classic that's hard to resist.
Russet potatoes are great here because they hold their shape and soak up the creamy sauce beautifully. The heavy cream and whole milk form the base of our luscious sauce. Adding all-purpose flour helps thicken this mixture just right. Garlic, thyme, and rosemary contribute fresh, earthy notes, while sharp cheddar cheese and Gruyère cheese bring in that irresistible cheesy goodness. A touch of butter keeps everything from sticking, and of course, salt and pepper to taste elevate all the flavors.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted chicken or a juicy steak. The creamy textures also work with sautéed greens like kale or spinach.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is key for getting that perfect golden top later on. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter to ensure nothing sticks.
In a medium saucepan, combine your heavy cream, whole milk, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Bring these to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, so the flavors meld together.
Now, it's time to thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in the flour, making sure there are no lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens slightly.
Start layering by arranging half of your sliced potatoes in the prepared dish. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Pour over half of your creamy mixture, then scatter half of the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses on top.
Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, cream, and cheeses, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top. Cover the dish with foil and pop it in the oven for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before digging in.