Dinner

Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyere Cheese

Name: Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyere Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon 1 garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes; 1 ½ cups Gruyere cheese, shredded; ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped

Servings: 6 Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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Introduction

Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyere Cheese is the definition of indulgence: thinly sliced potatoes layered with a luscious creamy sauce and topped with golden, bubbling Gruyere cheese. The combination of tender potatoes, rich cream, and nutty Gruyere creates a luxurious dish that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s a favorite at holiday feasts, dinner parties, or anytime you want to impress guests with a side dish that feels gourmet yet familiar.

Gruyere cheese is the star here—it melts beautifully, offering a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that elevates the dish far beyond traditional scalloped potatoes. Whether paired with roasted meats or served as the main attraction alongside a crisp green salad, this dish never fails to delight.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both classic and sophisticated. Scalloped potatoes remind me of family dinners, but adding Gruyere gives it that irresistible gourmet twist. The creamy sauce seeps into every potato layer, while the top becomes golden and slightly crispy. Every bite offers that perfect contrast of soft, melt-in-your-mouth potato and rich, cheesy crust.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

Elegant Comfort Food: A holiday-worthy side that feels luxurious.
Cheesy Goodness: Gruyere cheese melts like magic and adds unmatched flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults.
Versatile Pairing: Pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, or vegetarian mains.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped in advance and baked when needed.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Calories per Serving: ~340–380 (depending on cream and cheese amounts)
Cuisine: French / European-inspired
Course: Side Dish

Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing dish + sauce)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor depth)
1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (or russet), peeled and thinly sliced (⅛ inch thick)
1 ½ cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for extra flavor)
Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (for garnish)

Simple Cooking Directions

Make a creamy white sauce with butter, flour, milk, cream, and seasonings.
Layer sliced potatoes in a buttered casserole dish.
Pour sauce over potatoes, layering with Gruyere cheese.
Bake until golden, bubbly, and potatoes are tender.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
Make the Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, forming a roux.
- Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream until smooth.
- Add Dijon mustard, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Layer the Potatoes
- Spread one-third of the sliced potatoes in the prepared dish.
- Pour one-third of the sauce over potatoes.
- Sprinkle with Gruyere and Parmesan (if using).
- Repeat layers until all potatoes and sauce are used, finishing with cheese on top.
Bake
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly, and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Finish & Serve
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.

How to Serve

Serve warm as a side to roasted chicken, beef, ham, or lamb.
Pair with a light green salad to balance the richness.
Works beautifully as part of a holiday spread (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter).

Additional Recipe Tips

Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin potato slices.
Don’t skip resting time—this helps the sauce thicken before serving.
Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape better than russet potatoes.
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce for a subtle, classic French flavor.

Variations

Cheddar & Gruyere: For a sharper, tangier flavor.
Caramelized Onion Layer: Add sautéed onions between potato layers.
Bacon or Pancetta: Add cooked crumbles for a smoky twist.
Herb-Heavy: Add rosemary, sage, or tarragon for a more aromatic profile.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze before baking for best results (wrap tightly with foil, up to 2 months). Thaw overnight before baking.
Reheating: Reheat covered at 325°F until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish
Mandoline slicer or sharp knife for potatoes
Saucepan and whisk

Conclusion

Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyere Cheese is an elegant yet comforting dish that makes any meal feel special. The creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and nutty Gruyere topping come together for a side dish that steals the show. Whether it’s gracing your holiday table or accompanying a weeknight roast, this recipe guarantees warmth, indulgence, and second helpings every time.

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