Skip to main content

Scalloped Potatoes

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This classic recipe for scalloped potatoes is the ultimate comforting side dish, elevating the humble vegetable into something truly indulgent. Finely sliced potatoes are layered with butter and a hint of fragrant nutmeg, then slow-baked in a rich blend of double cream and whole milk. The result is a beautifully tender gratin with a velvety sauce and a golden, bubbling crust that pair perfectly with a traditional Sunday roast.

As a versatile vegetarian dish, these creamy potatoes are ideal for family gatherings or festive celebrations. The simple seasoning allows the natural flavour of the potatoes to shine through, while the final flourish under the grill adds a delicious textural contrast. Serve this alongside seasonal greens or as a decadent accompaniment to your favourite main course for a satisfying, homemade meal.

In this article:

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Scalloped Potatoes

  • 3/4 teaspoons grated nutmeg

  • 1.4kg large boiling potatoes (about 6)

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

  • 350ml double cream

  • 180ml whole milk

How to make Scalloped Potatoes

Preheat oven to 177°C with rack in upper third. Generously butter a 2 1/2-quart shallow baking dish (not glass).

Stir together nutmeg, 2 teaspoons salt, and 3/4 teaspoons pepper.

Peel and thinly slice potatoes. Layer potatoes in baking dish, overlapping slightly and sprinkling each layer with some of salt mixture and some of butter. Pour cream and milk over potatoes, pressing down gently to submerge potatoes in liquid.

Cover with foil and bake until potatoes are tender, 1 to 1 1/4 hours.

Remove gratin from oven and discard foil. Turn grill on and grill gratin 2 to 3 inches from heat until top is browned in spots, 3 to 5 minutes.

Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.