Scalloped Potatoes for Easter Dinner

Scalloped Potatoes for Easter Dinner: A Creamy, Cheesy Holiday Masterpiece 🥔🧀🐣

1. Introduction

When it comes to Easter dinner, few side dishes can compete with the comforting elegance of perfectly baked scalloped potatoes. This classic Easter recipe transforms humble potatoes into a show-stopping dish that will have your guests asking for seconds. The combination of thinly sliced potatoes, rich cream sauce, and melted cheese creates layers of flavor that complement any Easter ham or spring roast.

What makes this scalloped potatoes Easter recipe so special is its versatility – it’s equally at home at a formal holiday gathering or a casual family dinner. The golden-brown crust gives way to tender potatoes swimming in a velvety sauce that’s infused with garlic, onion, and just the right amount of cheese. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this foolproof recipe will guide you to potato perfection.

Looking for more Easter inspiration? Check out our collection of holiday side dishes that will complete your festive table.

2. Ingredients

Gathering quality ingredients is the first step to creating unforgettable scalloped potatoes. Here’s what you’ll need for this Easter recipe:

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes (about 6 medium) – Their buttery texture and thin skins make them ideal
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter – For building the roux base
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour – To thicken the creamy sauce
• 2 cups whole milk – The base of our luscious sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream – Adds richness and prevents curdling
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor
• 1 tsp garlic powder – For depth of flavor
• 1 tsp onion powder – Complements the cheese beautifully
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme – Adds an herby note
• 1/2 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – Just enough bite
• 1/4 tsp paprika (for garnish) – Adds color and subtle smokiness

For those who love cheesy potato dishes, don’t miss our cheesy potato breakfast scramble – another family favorite!

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This moderate temperature allows the potatoes to cook through without burning the cheese topping. Wash and peel the potatoes (though you can leave the skins on if you prefer a more rustic texture). Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice them into uniform 1/8-inch thick rounds – this ensures even cooking. Arrange the potato slices in slightly overlapping layers in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. The layering creates those beautiful ridges that catch the sauce and cheese.

Pro Tip: If you’re prepping ahead, keep the sliced potatoes in cold water to prevent browning, then pat them dry before assembling.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s just beginning to bubble. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a blonde roux – this cooks out the raw flour taste while maintaining its thickening power. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese until completely melted and smooth.

For another creamy, comforting dish, try our Easter dirt cake casserole for dessert!

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes, making sure it seeps between all the slices. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top – this will create that beautiful golden crust. Now add the seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. For the finishing touch, dust lightly with paprika which adds both color and a subtle smoky flavor. At this point, you could also add some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for an au gratin variation.

Looking for more baking inspiration? Explore our baking recipes for all your holiday needs.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil (this creates steam to cook the potatoes) and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil to allow the top to brown beautifully – bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving – this allows the sauce to thicken slightly for perfect serving consistency.

For another delicious Easter option, pair these potatoes with our special holiday dinner recipes.

4. Cooking Tips

• Protein Boost: For extra flavor and protein, add 1/2 cup of diced ham or cooked bacon between the potato layers – this makes it a more substantial side.
• Perfect Slices: Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even potato slices that cook uniformly. If using a knife, take your time to make them as even as possible.
• Browning Control: If the top browns too quickly during the uncovered baking time, simply tent loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes.
• Resting Time: Don’t skip letting the dish rest before serving – this allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving much easier.
• Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, try mixing in some Gruyère or Parmesan for more complex flavor.

5. Serving Suggestions

These scalloped potatoes make the perfect Easter side dish when served with:

• Main Courses: Pair with glazed ham or roasted lamb – the creamy potatoes balance the salty/savory meats perfectly
• Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed spring vegetables like asparagus or honey-glazed carrots
• Breads: Fresh dinner rolls or crusty bread help soak up any extra sauce
• Salads: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness
• Desserts: Follow with cream cheese sugar cookies or frosted red velvet cookies

6. Make-Ahead Instructions

One of the best things about this scalloped potatoes Easter recipe is that you can prepare it in advance, making your holiday cooking much less stressful:

1. Assemble Completely: Prepare the dish through step 3 (before baking)
2. Storage: Cover tightly with plastic wrap (press it directly onto the surface to prevent drying) and then foil
3. Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours
4. Baking: When ready to serve, remove plastic wrap, recover with foil, and bake at 375°F for 60-75 minutes (add 15-20 minutes to account for the cold dish coming straight from the fridge)
5. Final Browning: Remove foil for the last 20-25 minutes as usual

For more make-ahead breakfast ideas, check out our lemon poppy seed muffins or other breakfast recipes.

7. Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve overnight!
• Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: For best results, warm individual portions in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes (cover with foil if the top is browning too much). You can also microwave single servings for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Reviving Leftovers: If the sauce seems too thick after storage, stir in a tablespoon or two of milk before reheating.

8. Variations

This versatile scalloped potatoes Easter recipe can be customized in countless ways:

• Au Gratin Style: Add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tbsp melted butter to the cheese topping for extra crunch
• Herbed Version: Mix in 1 tbsp of fresh rosemary or sage with the thyme for a more aromatic dish
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of milk and nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a dairy-free version
• Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheese
• Extra Cheesy: Add layers of cheese between the potato slices for even more gooey goodness
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños for heat

For another potato variation, see this classic scalloped potatoes recipe from our friends at Spend With Pennies.

9. Conclusion

This scalloped potatoes Easter recipe is more than just a side dish – it’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest. With its creamy texture, rich cheese flavor, and beautiful presentation, it’s the perfect complement to your Easter feast. Whether you’re serving a crowd or enjoying a quiet family dinner, these scalloped potatoes will bring warmth and comfort to your table.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way it can be prepared ahead, allowing you to enjoy your holiday guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Plus, the leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any) reheat beautifully for easy meals in the days following your celebration.

As you gather around the table this Easter, let these scalloped potatoes be part of what makes the meal memorable. The golden crust, the tender potatoes, the creamy sauce – it’s a dish that appeals to all ages and tastes. From our kitchen to yours, we wish you a happy Easter filled with good food and great company!

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