Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

If you’re searching for a rich and comforting side dish that comes together with ease, this Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is your new best friend. Combining tender slices of baby yellow potatoes with a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish brings the perfect balance of flavors and textures to your table. Thanks to the Instant Pot, you get those classic, slow-cooked flavors in a fraction of the time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings when you want to wow guests without slaving away in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Believe it or not, you only need a handful of simple, everyday ingredients to create this decadent casserole. Each component plays an essential role in building layers of flavor and that irresistible creamy texture.

• Baby yellow potatoes: These tender, thinly sliced potatoes provide the perfect base with their natural sweetness and creaminess.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds savory depth while keeping the dish from being too salty or heavy.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors; just the right amount for seasoning without overpowering.
• Salted butter: Brings richness and helps carry the garlic’s aroma beautifully.
• Minced garlic: A little punch of savory brilliance that awakens the taste buds.
• Half-and-half: The secret to that luscious, creamy sauce that hugs every potato slice lovingly.
• Italian seasoning: Offers a subtle herbal note to complement the cheese and potatoes.
• Marbled cheddar cheese: Freshly shredded to melt perfectly, giving you that comforting cheesy goodness with a hint of sharpness.

How to Make Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by layering your sliced baby yellow potatoes into the Instant Pot along with the chicken broth and kosher salt. Give everything a quick stir to ensure all the potatoes are moist and ready to soak up that flavorful broth during cooking.

Step 2: Pressure Cook the Potatoes

Seal your Instant Pot and set it to cook under high pressure for just 1 minute. Though it takes some time for the pressure to build, the actual cooking time inside is very brief, preventing the potatoes from becoming mushy but ensuring they’re perfectly tender.

Step 3: Release the Pressure

Once the timer dings, switch off the Instant Pot and carefully use the quick-release valve to release any remaining pressure. This step is key to stopping the cooking at the right moment and preserving the texture of the potatoes.

Step 4: Transfer Potatoes to Baking Dish

Generously grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray, then gently scoop the cooked potatoes out of the pot and into the pan. Try to leave most of the cooking liquid behind since it will be transformed into the sauce next.

Step 5: Sauté Butter and Garlic

Switch the Instant Pot to the sauté setting and melt the butter in the leftover liquid. Add the minced garlic and stir frequently for about 7 minutes until the butter is fragrant and bubbling, creating a flavorful base for the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Add Half-and-Half

Slowly pour in the half-and-half while stirring constantly. This prevents curdling and helps you develop a smooth, velvety sauce that will coat your potatoes beautifully.

Step 7: Season and Thicken the Sauce

Add the Italian seasoning to bring that lovely herbaceous note, then keep stirring until the sauce thickens slightly—about 2 to 3 minutes. This gradual thickening is what makes every bite wonderfully creamy and indulgent.

Step 8: Stir in Cheese

Turn off the Instant Pot heat and fold in 1 cup of the shredded marbled cheddar cheese. Melt it gently into the sauce for that signature cheesy texture and flavor.

Step 9: Pour Sauce Over Potatoes

Pour the luscious cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes in your baking dish. Use a spatula to gently spread it out, making sure every slice gets its share of creamy goodness.

Step 10: Top With Remaining Cheese

Sprinkle the last ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top, setting the stage for a beautifully golden, bubbly crust once baked.

Step 11: Broil for the Perfect Finish

Place the baking dish under the broiler for 5 to 7 minutes. Keep a close eye as it cooks—once the cheese is golden brown and bubbling, you know it’s ready to come out.

Step 12: Serve Hot and Enjoy

This dish is best enjoyed immediately when it’s still warm and creamy. Grab a serving spoon and dive into layers of silky potatoes and cheesy sauce that are comfort food at its finest.

How to Serve Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

For a fresh twist, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top before serving. A dash of cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add a subtle kick and lovely color contrast that makes your scalloped potatoes look as good as they taste.

Side Dishes

This Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted meats like herb-crusted chicken, juicy pork chops, or even a succulent prime rib. For a vegetarian meal, serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this dish in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation, perfect for dinner parties. You can also layer the potatoes in a casserole with sautéed onions or mushrooms for added flavor and texture variations that make this recipe uniquely yours.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining that creamy delight without drying out. Just be sure to cover it well to preserve moisture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this recipe freezes quite well. Transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To avoid sogginess, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your scalloped potatoes in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly again, usually about 20 minutes. You can also microwave servings individually, though the oven helps restore that freshly cooked texture and melt the cheese perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes in this Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe?

Absolutely! While baby yellow potatoes provide wonderful creaminess, russet or Yukon gold potatoes can also work well. Just slice them evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate in the Instant Pot.

Is it necessary to broil the dish at the end?

Broiling is what gives the scalloped potatoes their signature golden, bubbly top. You can skip this step if needed, but you’ll miss out on that irresistible crust that makes this dish extra special.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and make sure your cheese contains no animal rennet. The dish will still be rich, creamy, and delicious!

How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?

Pressure cooking briefly (just 1 minute) and quick releasing the pressure helps keep the potatoes tender yet firm. Overcooking or longer pressure times can lead to mushiness, so stick closely to the timing.

Can I add extra flavors to the sauce?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding caramelized onions, cooked bacon bits, or even a hint of mustard to the cheese sauce for a personal twist on this classic recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Recipe truly brings together speed, simplicity, and incredible flavor, making it a must-have for your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking a weeknight meal or preparing a feast for loved ones, its creamy, cheesy layers never fail to impress and satisfy. Take a chance on this comforting classic—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

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