Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and full of rich, garlicky goodness. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner, a potluck side dish, or a special holiday meal, this Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a game-changer. Not only does it cut down on cooking time, but it also delivers an irresistibly decadent dish with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Traditional scalloped potatoes can take up to an hour or more to bake, but using the Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and garlic creates an indulgent, velvety sauce.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: This dish works well as a weeknight side or a showstopper at your holiday table.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients to suit different dietary needs and preferences.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 1 cup broth of choice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Instant Pot
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
- Oven-safe baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into thin, even slices. A mandoline slicer ensures uniform thickness, but a sharp knife works well too.
Step 2: Cook in the Instant Pot
Place the sliced potatoes in the Instant Pot along with the broth, salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 1 minute, followed by a 3-minute natural pressure release. Once done, manually release any remaining pressure and carefully remove the potatoes.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Switch the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the heavy cream and minced garlic, stirring frequently for about 2-3 minutes. Turn off the Instant Pot and add 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Layer half of the potatoes in an oven-safe dish. Pour half of the creamy cheese sauce over them. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final sprinkle of cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
Best Potatoes to Use
- Yukon Gold: Creamy texture with a naturally buttery flavor.
- Russet: Higher starch content makes for extra fluffy scalloped potatoes.
Cheese Substitutions
- Swap cheddar for Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Add a mix of cheeses for more depth.
Make It Lighter
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Reduce the cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety.
Add Some Extra Flavor
- Sprinkle in some crispy bacon bits for added texture.
- Add thinly sliced onions between the potato layers.
- Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Instant Pot: Use the sauté function and stir occasionally.
What to Serve with Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of mains:
- Proteins: Serve with roasted chicken, grilled steak, baked salmon, or pork chops.
- Vegetables: Complement with roasted Brussels sprouts, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad.
- Drinks: Pair with a buttery Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir for a well-rounded meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding 5 extra minutes to the cook time.
Can I use a slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours before transferring to the oven.
Why are my scalloped potatoes still hard?
If your potatoes are not fully cooked, they may be too thickly sliced. Try cutting them thinner next time or extending the cooking time slightly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap heavy cream for unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes recipe delivers a luxurious and creamy dish in a fraction of the time of traditional methods. It’s perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or even just a comforting weeknight meal. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family! If you loved this dish, subscribe to the blog for more easy and delicious recipes. Happy cooking!
