Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyere Cheese

Introduction

Scalloped potatoes with Gruyere cheese is a classic comfort food that embodies the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and tender textures. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, baked until bubbly and golden brown, and topped with a beautifully browned crust of Gruyere cheese. The nutty, slightly sweet flavor of Gruyere elevates the humble potato into an indulgent side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats, poultry, or even a simple green salad.

Why You Love This Recipe

1. Creamy, Comforting Texture
   Each slice of potato is enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. The creaminess gives a luxurious mouthfeel that feels indulgent without being overwhelming. It’s the ultimate comfort food—you can almost feel it warming you from the inside out.
2. Nutty, Sophisticated Flavor
   Gruyere cheese isn’t just “cheese”—it has a nutty, slightly sweet, and deeply savory profile. This elevates the humble potato into something gourmet, giving you a sense of sophistication while still being homey.
3. Golden, Bubbling Perfection
   The top layer of melted, slightly browned Gruyere is visually irresistible. That golden crust gives you that satisfying crunch while the inside remains tender and creamy—contrast is key, and this recipe nails it.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

1. Ultimate Comfort Food
   The creamy, cheesy layers of tender potatoes make this dish a classic comfort food. It’s warm, satisfying, and soothing—perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or holidays. Every bite feels like a little indulgence you deserve.
2. Elegant Yet Simple
   While it tastes like something from a gourmet restaurant, the ingredients are simple—potatoes, cheese, milk, butter, and seasonings. That combination of elegance and simplicity makes it a must-try because it’s accessible yet impressive.
3. Perfectly Balanced Flavors
   Gruyere cheese brings a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that complements the mild potatoes beautifully. The subtle hint of nutmeg in the sauce adds depth, and the golden baked top gives a delicious contrast of textures—creamy inside, lightly crisp outside.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 kcal

Course and Cuisine

• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: French / American Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Potato Base

• 2 lbs (900 g) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (1/8 inch)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing the baking dish)

For the Cheese Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups Gruyere cheese, grated (reserve 1/4 cup for topping)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Optional Garnish

• Fresh thyme or chives, finely chopped

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
3. Prepare the cheese sauce by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
4. Stir in the flour to make a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
5. Gradually whisk in the warmed milk until smooth and thickened, about 4–5 minutes.
6. Add Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
7. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 1 1/4 cups Gruyere and all the Parmesan cheese until melted.
8. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish.
9. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
10. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
11. Sprinkle the reserved Gruyere on top for a golden crust.
12. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
13. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prep the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (1/8 inch thickness) using a sharp knife or mandoline.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter, stir in flour, and gradually whisk in milk. Season and add Gruyere + Parmesan.
3. Layer Potatoes: Spread a layer of potatoes in the greased dish, then half the sauce. Repeat the layer.
4. Top and Bake: Sprinkle remaining Gruyere on top. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F.
5. Finish Baking: Remove foil, bake until golden and bubbly. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve warm as a side dish with roasted chicken, turkey, beef, or ham.
• Garnish with fresh thyme, chives, or parsley for added color and flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best texture.
• Slice potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
• Warm the milk before adding to the roux to avoid lumps.
• Cover the dish during baking to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.

Variations

• Cheese Variations: Substitute Gruyere with sharp cheddar, Fontina, or Emmental.
• Add-ins: Incorporate caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or crispy bacon for extra flavor.
• Creamier Version: Mix 1/2 cup heavy cream into the milk for a richer sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed (add 10–15 minutes to baking time).

Special Equipment Needed

• Mandoline (optional, for uniform potato slices)
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Medium saucepan for cheese sauce
• Whisk for sauce preparation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use other potatoes?
   Yes, Yukon Gold and Russet work best for texture and creaminess.
2. Can I make this ahead?
   Absolutely. Assemble, cover, refrigerate overnight, then bake before serving.
3. Do I have to use Gruyere?
   No, you can substitute with other meltable cheeses like Fontina, Emmental, or cheddar.
4. Why is my sauce lumpy?
   Lumps usually happen if milk is added cold or too quickly. Warm milk and whisk constantly.
5. Can I make it gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

Conclusion

Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyere Cheese is a timeless comfort dish that delivers creamy, cheesy perfection with every bite. Its rich flavors, velvety texture, and golden crust make it a show-stopping side dish for any occasion. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and versatile variations, this recipe is a must-have in your culinary repertoire. Whether for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, it’s sure to impress and satisfy every palate.