There are certain dishes that simply feel like a hug on a plate, and scalloped potatoes have always been one of those dishes for me.
I remember chilly Sunday afternoons when my mom would pull a bubbling dish of creamy, golden-topped potatoes out of the oven, and the whole house would fill with the most irresistible aroma. It was pure comfort.
As I grew older and started needing to adapt to a gluten-free lifestyle, I found myself craving those cozy flavors but had to find a way to make them safe for me to enjoy.
That is when I created my version of Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes.
This recipe keeps all the creamy, rich goodness of the classic dish but swaps out traditional flour-based sauces for a gluten-free version that tastes just as luxurious.
The first time I made it, I was honestly nervous. Would it hold together? Would it still have that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture? I was thrilled to discover that not only did it work, but it might have even tasted better than the original.
Now, Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes have become a must at every holiday, special gathering, or even just a cozy family dinner. Whenever I pull it out of the oven, it still feels like a little piece of my childhood, only now it fits perfectly into the way I eat today. If you love creamy, cheesy, soul-warming sides, you are going to adore this recipe just as much as I do.
What are Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes?
Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes are a comforting baked side dish made with thinly sliced potatoes layered in a creamy, cheesy, and gluten-free sauce. Traditional scalloped potatoes often use flour to thicken the sauce, but in this recipe, I use gluten-free flour or cornstarch, making it safe and delicious for anyone avoiding gluten.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
You should try this recipe because it offers everything you love about traditional scalloped potatoes without the worry of gluten. It is creamy, rich, satisfying, and perfect for holidays, potlucks, or simply making an ordinary dinner feel a little more special. Plus, it is surprisingly simple to make and can easily be made ahead of time.
Ingredients Needed to Make Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes
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4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch
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1 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional for garnish)
Instruction to Make Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish.
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In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in the gluten-free flour or cornstarch and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a roux.
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Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
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Stir in the cheddar cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
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Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
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Layer the remaining potatoes on top and pour the rest of the sauce evenly over them.
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Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top and dust lightly with paprika if using.
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Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 25 to 30 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
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Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika optional for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the gluten-free flour or cornstarch and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Layer the remaining potatoes on top and pour the rest of the sauce evenly over them.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top and dust lightly with paprika if using.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 25 to 30 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- The key to perfect scalloped potatoes is slicing the potatoes evenly and thinly, about 1/8 inch thick.
- If they are too thick, they might not cook through properly.
- Using a mandoline slicer makes this super easy.
- Also, do not rush the sauce. Allow it to thicken properly before layering it with the potatoes to avoid a watery final dish.
Nutritional Value
A serving of Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes (based on 8 servings) approximately provides:- Calories: 220
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Sugar: 2g
What Goes Well with Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes
These scalloped potatoes are rich and creamy, making them a perfect side for roasted meats like chicken, turkey, ham, or beef. I also love pairing them with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. During the holidays, they sit beautifully alongside stuffing, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce.
My Tips to Make the Best Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes
The key to perfect scalloped potatoes is slicing the potatoes evenly and thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. If they are too thick, they might not cook through properly. Using a mandoline slicer makes this super easy. Also, do not rush the sauce. Allow it to thicken properly before layering it with the potatoes to avoid a watery final dish.
Easy Variations of Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes
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Extra Cheesy: Add a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a deeper flavor.
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Bacon Lover’s Dream: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits between the layers.
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Herbed Version: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic twist.
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Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and dairy-free cheese substitutes.
Best Way to Store Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes
Let the scalloped potatoes cool completely before storing. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer the potatoes to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
A serving of Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes (based on 8 servings) approximately provides:
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Calories: 220
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Fat: 11g
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Carbohydrates: 23g
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Fiber: 2g
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Protein: 8g
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Sugar: 2g
Please note that nutritional values may vary based on the brands and specific products you use.
FAQs
Can I make these scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake just before serving.
Which type of potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they are starchy and create a creamy texture when baked.
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
It is best to freeze them after baking. Let them cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
What milk is best to use?
Whole milk or half-and-half will give the creamiest texture. You can also use unsweetened almond milk if you prefer dairy-free.
Conclusion
Whenever I make these Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes, I feel like I am preserving a piece of tradition while adapting it to fit my needs today. It is funny how food has this incredible power to bridge past and present. This recipe has become a staple not just for holidays but for cozy weekends when I want to bring that special comfort to the table.
I still remember one Thanksgiving when I first introduced this gluten-free version to my extended family. I was nervous because scalloped potatoes were always on the table growing up, and I did not want anyone to feel like they were missing out. To my surprise, everyone raved about how creamy and flavorful they were, and several even asked for the recipe. That day made me realize that gluten-free cooking can absolutely stand shoulder to shoulder with traditional dishes.
These scalloped potatoes are so much more than a side dish to me. They represent creativity, love, and the joy of sharing food that everyone can enjoy together, no matter their dietary needs. Whether you are gluten-free or simply want to try a new twist on an old classic, I genuinely believe you will fall head over heels for this dish. It is hearty, it is cheesy, and it is everything you could ever want from comfort food, made even better.
I hope you give this recipe a try and that it brings as much warmth and happiness to your table as it does to mine.
Happy cooking and even happier eating!
