Name: Creamy Baked Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyère and Thyme
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: French-inspired
Ingredients: 2.5 lb russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1.5 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated; 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves; 1.5 tsp salt; 0.75 tsp black pepper; 0.125 tsp nutmeg (optional)

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I love making this creamy baked scalloped potatoes dish when I want something comforting, rich, and perfect for sharing. The tender layers of potatoes soak up a silky cream sauce, while Gruyère melts into a deeply savory, nutty topping. I finish it with thyme for a subtle herbal note that makes the whole dish feel special yet familiar.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it turns simple ingredients into something that feels elegant without being complicated. I get creamy potatoes with golden edges, a sauce that thickens beautifully in the oven, and a flavor that works just as well for a holiday table as it does for a cozy family dinner. I also enjoy how make-ahead friendly it is, which takes the stress out of entertaining.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled
unsalted butter
garlic cloves
heavy cream
whole milk
Gruyère cheese, grated
fresh thyme leaves
salt
black pepper
nutmeg (optional)

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a baking dish with butter. I slice the potatoes thinly so they cook evenly and layer beautifully.

In a saucepan, I melt butter and gently cook the garlic until fragrant, then I pour in the cream and milk. I season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, letting it warm without boiling.

I arrange a layer of potatoes in the dish, spoon some cream over them, sprinkle with Gruyère and thyme, and repeat until everything is used. I finish with a generous layer of cheese on top.

I cover the dish with foil and bake until the potatoes are tender, then uncover it and bake a bit longer until the top is golden and bubbling. I let it rest before serving so the sauce sets nicely.

Servings and timing

I usually make this recipe to serve about 6 people as a side dish.
Preparation time: about 20 minutes
Baking time: about 60–70 minutes
Total time: roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap Gruyère for sharp cheddar or a mix of cheeses when I want a stronger flavor. When I want extra richness, I add thinly sliced onions or leeks between the potato layers. I also like using rosemary instead of thyme for a more robust herbal note.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I prefer using the oven at a low temperature so the sauce stays creamy. If I use the microwave, I reheat in short intervals and stir gently if possible.

FAQs

Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

I often assemble the dish a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. I bake it fresh the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What potatoes work best for this recipe?

I like using Yukon Gold or russet potatoes because they hold their shape while still becoming tender and creamy.

Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?

I use dried thyme when I don’t have fresh, but I reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?

I test them by inserting a knife into the center. If it slides in easily, I know they’re done.

Why did my sauce turn out watery?

I’ve found this usually happens if the dish isn’t baked long enough or if it’s served immediately without resting. Letting it sit helps the sauce thicken.

Conclusion

I keep coming back to this creamy baked scalloped potatoes recipe because it’s comforting, reliable, and always impressive. The combination of tender potatoes, rich cream, and Gruyère makes it a dish I’m proud to serve, whether it’s for a celebration or a simple meal at home.