Name: Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds Yukon potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4 inch rondelles; 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups yellow cheddar cheese, shredded and divided

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 48 reviews

If you have ever craved a comforting, creamy, and cheesy side, then this Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is a must-try. It combines tender Yukon Gold potatoes with a luscious cheese sauce that is effortlessly whipped up using the magic of the Instant Pot, speeding up a traditionally slow bake. This dish is indulgently rich yet simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings alike. Each bite melts in your mouth, showcasing the perfect harmony of garlic, herbs, and gooey cheddar cheese in a way that will surely become a family favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl in the center holds many pale yellow, thin potato slices layered evenly. Below it, a smaller clear bowl is filled with bright orange shredded cheese. To the right of the potato bowl, there is a clear glass cup with a bright yellow-green liquid and a small spout. Below this cup, a small clear bowl contains finely chopped pale garlic. Below the cheese, a round clear bowl holds white cream. Surrounding these are tiny clear bowls with ground black pepper, white salt, another fine light beige powder, and green dried herbs. Two sprigs of green rosemary lie near the bowls. To the right side on a white marbled surface, there is a large wooden spoon with a white handle. On the left, a red and white checkered cloth adds color to the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but each brings a unique touch to create the perfect texture, flavor, and color in your scalloped potatoes. From creamy Yukon Gold potatoes to sharp cheddar cheese, every component plays a vital role.

Yukon potatoes (3 pounds, peeled and sliced): Creamy and buttery, these potatoes hold their shape while becoming tender, essential for a silky finish.
Chicken or vegetable broth (1 cup): Adds depth and moisture, allowing the potatoes to cook perfectly in the Instant Pot.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all flavors without overpowering.
Ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of spice for balance.
Oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a slight herbal note that livens up the creamy sauce.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses the dish with a subtle savory garlic flavor throughout.
Minced fresh garlic (4 cloves): Sautéed for an aromatic, fresh garlicky punch.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Delivers the rich, smooth sauce that coats the potatoes beautifully.
Yellow cheddar cheese (2 cups shredded, divided): Adds sharpness and melts into a gooey topping that makes this dish irresistible.

How to Make Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Cook in the Instant Pot

Start by peeling and slicing the Yukon potatoes into thin 1/4 inch rondelles. Layer them in the Instant Pot and pour in the broth along with salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder. Give everything a good stir so the seasoning is evenly distributed. Seal the lid, set to high pressure for 1 minute, and allow for a 3-minute natural pressure release followed by a quick release of any remaining pressure. This quick cooking step softens the potatoes perfectly, saving you from the usual long bake time.

Step 2: Prep the Cheese Sauce and Combine

While the Instant Pot is still warm, turn on the sauté function. Add minced garlic to the leftover flavorful liquid and sauté briefly to release its aroma. Then, stir in the heavy cream and let it gently simmer. Once warmed, turn off the Instant Pot and melt in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until you have a smooth, velvety sauce. This sauce is where the creaminess and cheesiness of your scalloped potatoes truly shine.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Carefully transfer the cooked potatoes to a pie baking dish. Pour the cheesy cream sauce over the potatoes, tossing gently to make sure every piece is coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top for that bubbly, golden crust. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for about 15 minutes until the dish is bubbly and lightly browned. For an extra special finish, broil it for a few minutes to get a perfectly golden cheese crust that’s both crispy and gooey.

How to Serve Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

A large white dish filled with a layered baked potato gratin topped with melted golden brown cheese that is bubbly and slightly crisp on top. The layers inside show soft, creamy slices of pale yellow potatoes covered with a rich, cheesy sauce, sprinkled with bright green chopped scallions. A white and wooden spoon lifts a portion, showing the layers clearly with browned cheese on the surface and tender potatoes beneath. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a fresh green herb garnish visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a vibrant green pop and fresh flavor that cuts through the richness. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a few crispy fried onions can also bring texture and an extra layer of flavor that makes each serving exciting and visually appetizing.

Side Dishes

This Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef, acting as the ultimate creamy counterpoint. For a lighter pairing, try it alongside steamed green vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, to balance the meal while keeping things comforting and hearty.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties or holidays, consider serving this dish in individual ramekins for a personal touch. You can also layer the scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions or cooked spinach for a twist that adds color, texture, and unexpected savory notes. Presentation is as fun as the flavors when you get creative!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making it a convenient dish for easy meals afterward. Just be sure to cover tightly to maintain moisture and prevent the cheese from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze scalloped potatoes, but it’s best to do so before baking. Assemble the dish up to the cheese topping stage and freeze it tightly wrapped with foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it’s cooked through and delightfully bubbly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Microwaving is quicker but can make the potatoes a little watery, so the oven is preferred for maintaining that creamy texture and to keep the cheese topping nice and melty.

FAQs

Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold for this recipe?

Yes, you can use russet potatoes, but Yukon Golds are preferred for their creamy, buttery texture and because they hold their shape better when cooked, resulting in a smoother scalloped potato dish.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream for the cheese sauce?

Heavy cream is essential to get that rich texture. Using low-fat milk or skim milk can result in a sauce that is less creamy and might curdle, so heavy cream really makes a difference here.

Can I make this Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you have a delicious vegetarian version without sacrificing flavor.

How thick should I slice the potatoes for this recipe?

Slicing potatoes about 1/4 inch thick is ideal because it ensures even cooking and the perfect tender texture. A mandolin slicer works great to keep slices uniform and safe.

Can I prepare this recipe fully in the Instant Pot without baking?

The Instant Pot does a great job tenderizing the potatoes, but baking adds a beautiful golden cheese crust and deepens the flavors, which is why the recipe combines both cooking methods for best results.

Final Thoughts

There is something irresistibly soothing about homemade scalloped potatoes, and this Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe makes it easier and faster than ever to enjoy them. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving comfort food on a busy night, this dish brings warmth, creaminess, and cheesy goodness to your table. Give it a try—you just might find your new favorite way to enjoy potatoes!

Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Cook in the Instant Pot