What Are Some Variations on Scalloped Potatoes?

Introduction

If you’re like most people, you agree that scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Their creamy layers, rich flavors, and satisfying texture make them a staple at family dinners and holiday feasts. But sometimes, even the most beloved dishes can use a little twist to keep things fresh and exciting. That’s where friendly variations on scalloped potatoes come in!

Here’s the good news: with just a few tweaks, you can transform scalloped potatoes into something even more delicious and tailored to your taste. Whether you want a cheesy version, a protein-packed meal with ham, or a plant-based alternative, there’s a variation that will leave your family and guests asking for seconds.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best scalloped potato recipes, including traditional methods, vegan-friendly swaps, sweet potato twists, and even spicy options. By the end, you’ll have plenty of ideas to customize this classic dish and make it your own. Let’s get started!

Traditional Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes are a classic dish made with simple ingredients that come together in a creamy, comforting bake. Let’s start with the basics before diving into the exciting variations.

Key Ingredients

Traditional scalloped potatoes rely on just a few staples from your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best because they stay tender and hold their shape.
Cream or Milk: This creates the creamy sauce that makes scalloped potatoes so irresistible.
Cheese (Optional): Some recipes stick to cream, but many add cheese like cheddar for extra richness.
Butter and Flour: These form the base for the creamy sauce, creating a roux that thickens the dish.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and sometimes garlic or onion for added flavor.

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s simple yet deeply satisfying.

Step-by-Step Process

preparing Traditional Scalloped Potatoes

Here’s how to prepare traditional scalloped potatoes step by step:

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). A warm oven ensures even cooking.
Slice the Potatoes: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly. This helps them cook through while keeping the texture smooth.
Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk or cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Let the mixture thicken slightly, then season with salt and pepper.
Layer the Dish: Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes, pour some sauce on top, and repeat until all potatoes and sauce are used.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for another 15 minutes to get a golden, bubbly top.

Now that you know the foundation, it’s easy to see how this dish can be modified to suit your preferences. In the next sections, we’ll explore variations like adding cheese, ham, or even swapping the potatoes for sweet ones. These tweaks take scalloped potatoes to a whole new level of deliciousness!

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

If you love cheese, adding it to scalloped potatoes is a game-changer. Cheesy scalloped potatoes are rich, creamy, and full of bold flavors that make every bite unforgettable. Let’s break down how to make this delicious variation step by step.

Why Cheese Makes a Difference

Cheese brings a lot of flavor and creaminess to the dish. When it melts, it blends with the sauce and coats every layer of potato. This makes the dish even more indulgent and satisfying. Plus, the golden, bubbly cheese on top is hard to resist!

Best Cheese Choices

Not all cheeses work well in scalloped potatoes. Here are some of the best options to try:

Cheddar Cheese: This is the most popular choice because it melts well and has a sharp, tangy flavor.
Gruyere: This adds a nutty, sophisticated taste that pairs beautifully with cream.
Parmesan: Use Parmesan for its salty, savory kick. It’s also great for sprinkling on top for a crispy crust.
Mozzarella: For those who enjoy a gooey, stretchy texture, mozzarella is a perfect addition.

Feel free to mix and match cheeses to create your favorite blend. Combining cheddar and Gruyere, for example, balances sharpness with creaminess.

How to Add Cheese to Scalloped Potatoes

Here’s how to incorporate cheese into your scalloped potatoes:

Prepare the Sauce: Start by making the cream sauce, just like in the traditional recipe. Once the sauce thickens, add your shredded cheese gradually, stirring until it melts completely. This ensures the sauce stays smooth and creamy.
Layer the Potatoes: Grease your baking dish and layer the potato slices as usual. Pour a little cheese sauce over each layer before adding the next.
Top with More Cheese: After layering all the potatoes, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top. This will create a bubbly, golden crust when baked.
Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to let the cheese brown and crisp up.

Tips for Melting Cheese Evenly

Sometimes, cheese can clump or separate when it melts. To avoid this, follow these tips:

Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
Add Cheese Gradually: Don’t dump all the cheese into the sauce at once. Add it a little at a time and stir until fully melted.
Avoid Overheating: High heat can make cheese separate and become greasy. Melt it over low to medium heat for the best results.

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are hard to beat, but they’re just one way to customize this dish. If you’re looking for something heartier, the next variation with ham is perfect for turning scalloped potatoes into a complete meal. Let’s dive into that next!

Scalloped Potatoes with Ham

If you want to turn scalloped potatoes into a full meal, adding ham is the perfect choice. The salty, smoky flavor of ham goes wonderfully with the creamy potatoes. Plus, it adds protein, making this dish hearty and satisfying. Let’s break down how to make this delicious variation.

Why Add Ham to Scalloped Potatoes?

Ham not only enhances the flavor of scalloped potatoes but also makes them more filling. It’s a great option for feeding a hungry family or serving as the main dish at dinner. The combination of tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and savory ham creates a well-balanced meal that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve.

Choosing the Right Ham

Not all types of ham work the same in scalloped potatoes. Here are a few popular choices to consider:

Smoked Ham: Smoked ham adds a deep, rich flavor to the dish. It’s ideal for anyone who enjoys bold, savory tastes.
Honey-Glazed Ham: If you like a touch of sweetness, honey-glazed ham provides a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.
Deli-Style Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham works well if you’re in a hurry. Just chop it into smaller pieces for even distribution.

Make sure the ham is fully cooked before adding it to the dish since it won’t have time to cook through in the oven.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to add ham to your scalloped potatoes:

Prepare the Potatoes and Sauce: Follow the steps for traditional scalloped potatoes. Slice the potatoes thinly and prepare the creamy sauce as usual.
Cut the Ham: Dice or chop your ham into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures the ham is evenly spread throughout the dish.
Layer the Dish: Grease a baking dish and start layering. Begin with a layer of potatoes, followed by a handful of diced ham. Pour some cream sauce over the layer. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used.
Top with Cheese (Optional): If you like, sprinkle shredded cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. Cheddar or Parmesan works great.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Tips for Balancing Flavors

To make sure the ham doesn’t overpower the dish, try these tips:

Watch the Salt: Since ham is salty, reduce the amount of salt in the sauce. Taste as you go to avoid oversalting.
Add Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or chives on top before serving. These can brighten up the rich flavors.
Include Vegetables: For a twist, add thinly sliced onions or spinach between the layers. This not only adds flavor but also boosts the dish’s nutritional value.

Adding ham makes scalloped potatoes heartier, but there are even more ways to customize this dish. If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative, vegan scalloped potatoes might be just what you need. Let’s explore that next!

Vegan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dairy-free or plant-based option, vegan scalloped potatoes are a fantastic choice. They’re just as creamy and flavorful as the original version, but they use ingredients that work for vegans and those with dietary restrictions. Let me guide you through this easy and delicious variation.

Why Go Vegan with Scalloped Potatoes?

Making scalloped potatoes vegan means replacing dairy products with plant-based alternatives. Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just curious about trying something new, this dish is an excellent way to enjoy comfort food without missing out on the flavor.

Substitutes for Cream and Cheese

The key to vegan scalloped potatoes is finding the right substitutes for cream and cheese. Here are some great options:

Cashew Cream: Soaked and blended cashews create a rich, creamy base that mimics dairy. Add a pinch of nutritional yeast for extra flavor.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives a creamy texture, but its mild sweetness works best when balanced with savory seasonings.
Vegan Cheese: Many brands offer plant-based cheeses that melt well. Look for options labeled for baking or sauces.
Nutritional Yeast: This ingredient has a cheesy, nutty flavor and works great as a seasoning in the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Vegan Scalloped Potatoes

Here’s how to make your own vegan scalloped potatoes:

Prepare the Potatoes: Slice your potatoes thinly, just as you would for the traditional recipe.
Make the Vegan Sauce: In a blender, combine soaked cashews (or your choice of non-dairy base), vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, garlic, and onion powder. Blend until smooth. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
Layer the Dish: Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil. Arrange a layer of potato slices, then pour some of the vegan sauce over them. Repeat until all the potatoes and sauce are used.
Top with Vegan Cheese (Optional): If you want a cheesy topping, sprinkle shredded vegan cheese on the top layer.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to let the top turn golden and bubbly.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Scalloped Potatoes

To make sure your dish turns out delicious, keep these tips in mind:

Season Generously: Since plant-based substitutes can have a milder taste, don’t be shy with garlic, onion, and spices.
Use a Thick Sauce: If your sauce feels too thin, add a little cornstarch or arrowroot powder to thicken it before layering.
Try Vegetable Additions: Add layers of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions for more flavor and texture.

Vegan scalloped potatoes are proof that this dish can be adapted for everyone. But if you’re craving something sweet and different, the next variation—scalloped sweet potatoes—might be just what you’re looking for. Let’s explore that next!

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

If you want a twist on the traditional dish, scalloped sweet potatoes are a delicious and unique option. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with creamy sauces and a variety of toppings. Let me show you how to make this exciting variation step by step.

Why Choose Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes add a vibrant orange color and a hint of natural sweetness to your dish. They’re also packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, making this version a bit healthier than the classic recipe. Plus, sweet potatoes go well with both sweet and savory flavors, so you can get creative with your ingredients.

How to Pick the Right Sweet Potatoes

Choosing the right sweet potatoes is important for the best flavor and texture. Here’s what to look for:

Firm Texture: Pick sweet potatoes that feel firm with smooth skin.
Medium Size: Medium-sized sweet potatoes cook evenly and are easier to slice.
Popular Varieties: Beauregard and Jewel sweet potatoes are great options because they’re naturally sweet and soft when cooked.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Let’s go through the process of making scalloped sweet potatoes:

Slice the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them thinly. Thin slices cook faster and layer nicely.
Make the Sauce: You can use the same creamy sauce as traditional scalloped potatoes or add a twist by mixing a bit of cinnamon and nutmeg into the sauce for a warm, comforting flavor.
Layer the Dish: Grease your baking dish, then start layering sweet potato slices. Pour a little sauce over each layer. Repeat until all the sweet potatoes and sauce are used.
Add Toppings (Optional): For a sweet version, sprinkle brown sugar and chopped pecans on top. For a savory version, add shredded cheese or breadcrumbs.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes to let the top brown and bubble.

Sweet or Savory? You Decide

Scalloped sweet potatoes can go in two directions:

Sweet Version: Use a cream sauce with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of vanilla. Add a pecan topping for extra crunch.
Savory Version: Stick with the traditional cream sauce and add sharp cheddar cheese or Parmesan for a delicious contrast to the sweet potatoes.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Here are some tips to make your dish even better:

Balance Flavors: If you’re making a sweet version, don’t go overboard with sugar. Let the natural sweetness of the potatoes shine.
Keep Slices Even: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice the sweet potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Try layering in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or fresh herbs for more depth of flavor.

Scalloped sweet potatoes are a wonderful way to bring something different to your table. They’re versatile enough to serve at holiday dinners or as a weeknight side dish. But no matter which variation you try, scalloped potatoes in any form are always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s wrap up with a few final thoughts!

FAQs

What Other Betty Crocker Recipes Are There?

Betty Crocker is a household name, known for providing reliable and delicious recipes for decades. If you’re a fan of her scalloped potatoes, you’ll be happy to know that Betty Crocker offers a wide range of recipes for every meal and occasion. Here’s a quick overview of some popular categories:

1. Breakfast Recipes

Start your day with a hearty or sweet breakfast using these recipes:

Pancakes and Waffles: Classic buttermilk pancakes, blueberry waffles, and creative pancake bites.
Breakfast Casseroles: Hash brown casseroles and egg bakes perfect for feeding a crowd.
Muffins: Blueberry, banana, or chocolate chip muffins are easy to make and family-friendly.

2. Main Dishes

Betty Crocker offers plenty of ideas for dinner that are easy to prepare and sure to impress:

Casseroles: Tuna noodle casserole, chicken and rice bake, and lasagna.
Slow Cooker Meals: Recipes like pot roast, pulled pork, and chili that require minimal effort.
One-Pot Dinners: Quick meals such as cheesy pasta, stir-fries, and skillet chicken dishes.

3. Desserts

Betty Crocker is famous for her desserts, offering a mix of traditional and modern treats:

Cakes and Cupcakes: From classic yellow cake to creative themed cupcakes, there’s something for every celebration.
Cookies: Chocolate chip, sugar cookies, and holiday-themed options like gingerbread.
Brownies and Bars: Fudgy brownies, lemon bars, and layered dessert bars are always a hit.

4. Snacks and Appetizers

For quick bites or party favorites, try:

Dips: Classic queso, spinach artichoke dip, or creamy ranch dips.
Party Mixes: Sweet and savory Chex Mix recipes that are perfect for snacking.
Mini Appetizers: Bite-sized meatballs, stuffed mushrooms, or pigs in a blanket.

Conclusion

Scalloped potatoes are a beloved dish because of their creamy texture, comforting flavors, and endless versatility. From the traditional recipe to exciting variations like cheesy, ham-filled, vegan, or even sweet potato versions, there’s a scalloped potato dish for every occasion and preference.

The beauty of scalloped potatoes lies in their adaptability. Whether you’re preparing a comforting side dish for a weeknight meal or elevating your holiday dinner table, you can customize this classic to fit your needs. Experiment with cheeses, spices, or even alternative ingredients to make the dish your own.

So, whether you stick to the tried-and-true recipe or try one of these creative variations, scalloped potatoes are guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your table. Don’t hesitate to explore and put your own twist on this timeless favorite. Happy cooking!