There’s a certain comfort that comes with a dish of creamy, cheesy potatoes, don’t you think? The moment you pull a bubbling casserole from the oven, you know you’re in for a treat. That’s exactly the feeling I had when I first created these Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes. The combination of Yukon gold potatoes and rich cheddar cheese wrapped in a garlic-infused cream sauce is irresistible.
What truly makes this dish special, though, is the seamless way the Instant Pot transforms it from simple ingredients into gourmet comfort food in no time. Imagine impressing your family or guests with this velvety side that’s not just delicious, but also easy to whip up on a busy weeknight—elevating your dinner table without the fuss of traditional baking methods. After just 40 minutes, you’ll serve a dish that’s sure to spark joy and warm the soul. Ready to dive into this creamy goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Why are Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes a winner?
Comforting and creamy, these potatoes become a family favorite in no time! Quick preparation means you can enjoy gourmet flavors without flipping through lengthy recipes. Made in minutes, the Instant Pot handles the heavy lifting, ensuring perfectly cooked potatoes. Indulge in cheesy goodness with a rich cheddar sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish dazzles and delivers satisfaction with every bite! Don’t forget to check out our other delicious Instant Pot recipes to expand your culinary repertoire!
Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients
Get ready to elevate your meal with these delightful ingredients!
For the Potatoes
• Yukon potatoes – These creamy potatoes hold up beautifully and absorb flavors well.
• Chicken broth or veggie broth – Use low-sodium options to control the saltiness.
For the Seasoning
• Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes.
• Ground black pepper – Adds a subtle kick that complements the creaminess.
• Oregano – Infuses a hint of herbaceous flavor that balances the richness.
• Garlic powder – A must for those who love that unmistakable garlic aroma!
For the Sauce
• Garlic – Fresh garlic elevates the dish with its robust flavor; chop finely for maximum impact.
• Heavy cream – The star of the dish, it contributes to that luscious, velvety texture.
• Yellow cheddar cheese – Melts perfectly and gives that irresistible cheesy goodness you crave!
Feel free to explore variations, like using smoked cheddar or adding a sprinkle of paprika on top for a flavorful twist! Enjoy making these Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes—your taste buds will thank you!
How to Make Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes
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Layer Potatoes: Begin by adding your sliced Yukon potatoes into the Instant Pot. This forms the heart of your creamy dish, so ensure they’re evenly spread for consistent cooking.
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Mix Ingredients: Add chicken broth (or veggie broth), salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder. Give everything a gentle stir to combine; it’s the magic that brings out all those delightful flavors!
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Seal and Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is pointed to sealed. Select High Pressure and cook for just 1 minute. Once done, allow a natural pressure release for 3 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
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Preheat Oven: While the potatoes cook, preheat your oven to 375°F. This prepares for that beautiful final bake!
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Transfer Potatoes: Gently transfer the cooked potatoes from the Instant Pot to a pie baking dish. This is where your potatoes will become a golden, cheesy masterpiece!
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Sauté Garlic: Turn the Instant Pot to Saute mode, adding the minced garlic to the leftover liquid. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant; this will enhance the overall flavor.
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Create Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer slightly. Turn off the Instant Pot and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
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Combine and Top: Pour the luscious cheese sauce over the potatoes, tossing gently to coat. Then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for that delectable, gooey finish!
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Bake and Serve: Bake for 15 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned. For an extra touch, broil for a few additional minutes to achieve that perfect golden crust. Serve and enjoy the harmonious flavors!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes
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Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for this dish, as they maintain their shape and lend a creamy texture.
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Don’t Skip the Natural Release: Allowing pressure to release naturally for 3 minutes helps the potatoes stabilize and ensures even cooking.
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Sauté Garlic Carefully: Watch your garlic while sautéing; burning it can lead to bitterness. Just a quick 30 seconds is all you need!
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Cheese Melting Trick: Make sure your cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the cream. This helps it melt smoothly into your Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes.
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Even Baking: Spread the layers evenly in your baking dish for a perfect bake and to avoid cold spots!
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Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for more flavor variations!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes?
Imagine the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen as you plan a full meal around these creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes.
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Herb-Crusted Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken with crispy herbs provides a delightful contrast to the richness of the potatoes.
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Roasted Veggies: Flavor-packed roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts add a burst of color and a slightly sweet flavor that balances the creaminess.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up that luscious cheese sauce, creating an experience that’s utterly irresistible.
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Simple Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness and brightens the meal.
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Beef Wellington: If you want to impress, serving a succulent beef Wellington alongside adds a gourmet touch to your dinner table.
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Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears with a squeeze of lemon offer a fresh flavor and satisfying crunch for the perfect balance.
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Crisp White Wine: Pair a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the cheesy flavors while enhancing the meal’s overall freshness.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse perfectly rounds off the meal while providing a sweet, creamy finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the Yukon potatoes and layer them in the baking dish up to 24 hours in advance—this not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep them fresh. You can also prepare the creamy garlic cheese sauce and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have rich, comforting potatoes with minimal effort on busier days!
Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutty dairy-free cheese for a rich, plant-based alternative.
Adding herbs like chives can elevate the dish even further, offering a fresh pop to the creaminess without dairy! -
Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper with the garlic for a fiery version.
Craving heat? Just a little goes a long way, making this comfort dish an exciting surprise on your dinner table! -
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of oregano to add an aromatic twist.
These herbs not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish visually appealing with their vibrant green hues! -
Bacon Lovers: Stir in crispy, crumbled bacon before baking for a smoky, savory addition that elevates richness.
Imagine that delightful crunch contrasting with the creamy potatoes; it’s comfort food bliss! -
Loaded Style: Add toppings like sour cream, green onions, and shredded cheese on top for a loaded potato experience.
Each bite bursts with toppings, making the dish not only comforting but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering! -
Veggie Boost: Toss in frozen spinach or sautéed mushrooms before pouring the cheese sauce for an extra layer of nutrition.
This enjoyable addition brightens the flavor while sneaking in some greens—who says comfort can’t be healthy? -
Cheesy Variations: Swap yellow cheddar with garlic and herb-infused cheese or blue cheese for a more sophisticated flavor profile.
This fun switch can turn classic into gourmet, exciting the taste buds of anyone at your table! -
Asian Flair: Use sesame oil instead of regular cooking oil and add some soy sauce for a unique flavor twist.
The interplay of traditional potato comfort with Asian tastes creates an unexpected yet enriching experience!
Storage Tips for Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to maintain creaminess.
Freezer: You can freeze the scalloped potatoes for up to 2 months. Cool completely first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
Reheating: Reheat frozen potatoes in the fridge overnight before warming them in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Wrap: If you’re storing leftovers, cover your dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to lock in moisture and flavor.
Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use?
Absolutely, Yukon gold potatoes are the best choice for this dish! Their creamy texture holds up beautifully during cooking and pairs perfectly with the rich cheese sauce. Avoid using high-starch potatoes like Russets, as they may become mushy.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftover Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat them gently in the microwave or oven to preserve that delightful creaminess!
Can I freeze Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes?
Yes! To freeze your scalloped potatoes, allow them to cool completely. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your cheese sauce turns out thicker than desired, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth, or a little more heavy cream while stirring over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, creating the perfect texture can take a bit of adjustment!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re serving to guests with dietary restrictions, you can substitute dairy-free cheese and use vegetable broth to make this a vegan-friendly dish. Always be sure to check ingredients for allergens, especially if serving to people with dairy or gluten sensitivities.
How can I enhance the flavors in this dish?
For an extra flavor kick, consider adding sautéed onions or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary along with the garlic. You could also sprinkle some paprika or even crispy bacon bits before baking for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes!
Creamy Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Layer Potatoes: Begin by adding your sliced Yukon potatoes into the Instant Pot. This forms the heart of your creamy dish, so ensure they're evenly spread for consistent cooking.
- Mix Ingredients: Add chicken broth (or veggie broth), salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder. Give everything a gentle stir to combine; it’s the magic that brings out all those delightful flavors!
- Seal and Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is pointed to sealed. Select High Pressure and cook for just 1 minute. Once done, allow a natural pressure release for 3 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
- Preheat Oven: While the potatoes cook, preheat your oven to 375°F. This prepares for that beautiful final bake!
- Transfer Potatoes: Gently transfer the cooked potatoes from the Instant Pot to a pie baking dish. This is where your potatoes will become a golden, cheesy masterpiece!
- Sauté Garlic: Turn the Instant Pot to Saute mode, adding the minced garlic to the leftover liquid. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant; this will enhance the overall flavor.
- Create Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer slightly. Turn off the Instant Pot and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
- Combine and Top: Pour the luscious cheese sauce over the potatoes, tossing gently to coat. Then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for that delectable, gooey finish!
- Bake and Serve: Bake for 15 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned. For an extra touch, broil for a few additional minutes to achieve that perfect golden crust. Serve and enjoy the harmonious flavors!
