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Wholesome Make-Ahead Cheesy Gruyère Scalloped Potatoes

make-ahead gruyère scalloped potatoes - featured image

These make-ahead scalloped potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and perfect for holidays or busy weeknights. Assemble up to 48 hours in advance for deeper flavor and effortless entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (about 6–7 medium)
  • 8 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 medium shallot, finely diced
  • 1 ½ teaspoons fine sea salt, plus more for layering
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for layering
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of the butter.
  2. Wash and scrub potatoes (peel if desired). Slice into ⅛-inch thick rounds. Place in a large bowl and cover with cold water to prevent browning.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add shallot and cook 2-3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and whole milk. Add thyme, 1 ½ teaspoons salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and nutmeg. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat immediately.
  5. Drain potatoes and pat dry with a clean towel.
  6. Spread ¼ cup of the warm cream mixture on the bottom of the prepared dish. Arrange a single layer of potato slices, slightly overlapping. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper, then ⅓ cup Gruyère. Repeat layering until all potatoes are used (about 4-5 layers). Pour remaining cream mixture over the top.
  7. Sprinkle remaining Gruyère over the top layer. Cover tightly with aluminum foil. At this point, refrigerate for up to 48 hours or bake immediately.
  8. Place covered dish on a baking sheet. Bake for 40 minutes (add 10-15 minutes if baking from cold).
  9. Remove foil and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until top is golden brown and bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
  10. Let rest on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, grate your own Gruyère—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Let the dish rest after baking to allow the sauce to set. If assembling ahead, let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking and add 10-15 minutes to covered baking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, gruyere, make-ahead, holiday side dish, creamy potatoes, comfort food