Why You’ll Love these Goat Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
There are five irresistible reasons why these Goat Cheese Scalloped Potatoes will become your new favorite side dish.
First, the creamy tang of goat cheese creates a luxurious sauce that’s miles beyond traditional recipes.
Second, those caramelized onions add a sweet depth that perfectly balances the richness.
Third, the thin-sliced Yukon golds develop the most incredible texture—crispy edges, tender centers.
Fourth, it’s surprisingly versatile, pairing with everything from holiday roasts to weeknight chicken.
Finally, the presentation is stunning, with those beautiful layers that reveal themselves when served.
Who knew potatoes could be this sophisticated?
What Ingredients are in Goat Cheese Scalloped Potatoes?
These goat cheese scalloped potatoes take a beloved classic to a whole new level, transforming humble spuds into something truly extraordinary. The combination of creamy goat cheese, tender potatoes, and sweet caramelized onions creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds.
Let me show you exactly what you’ll need to make this showstopper side dish.
- 4 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups smooth goat cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped chives
- 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, cubed
- Salt and pepper to taste
When shopping for these ingredients, quality really matters. Look for a smooth, creamy goat cheese rather than the crumbly variety—it melts much better into the sauce.
And don’t substitute other potato varieties if possible; Yukon golds have the perfect starch content and buttery flavor that makes this dish special. The heavy cream might seem indulgent (okay, it definitely is), but this isn’t the place for half-and-half or milk if you want that luxurious texture we’re aiming for.
Sometimes calories are just worth it, right?
How to Make these Goat Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
Making these dreamy goat cheese scalloped potatoes starts with a bit of prep work that’s absolutely worth the effort.
Begin by combining 2 cups of smooth goat cheese with 4 cups of heavy cream in a bowl, whisking until you have a silky mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper, then fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped chives. This creamy base is what transforms ordinary potatoes into something dinner guests will talk about for weeks.
Next, thinly slice your 2 pounds of Yukon gold potatoes to about 1/8-inch thickness—a mandoline is your best friend here, though a sharp knife works in a pinch. (My knife skills are questionable at best, so I always reach for the mandoline.) Keep those sliced potatoes in cold water until you’re ready to use them; this prevents browning and removes excess starch.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet and add your 2 thinly sliced large onions and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook them slowly for about 10 minutes until they’re gorgeously caramelized and sweet, seasoning with salt and pepper as they cook.
Time to layer—this is where the magic happens. Preheat your oven to 350°F, then drain and pat dry those potato slices. In an ovenproof dish, create alternating layers of potatoes, those fragrant caramelized onions, and the goat cheese mixture. Each layer gets a little seasoning, building flavor throughout.
After your final layer, pour any remaining cream mixture over the top, then dot with 2 tablespoons of cubed butter. For the best results, I recommend using a premium soup pot that can go from stovetop to oven seamlessly. The dish needs about an hour in the oven to become golden brown and bubbly, with the potatoes perfectly tender and the cream reduced to a rich sauce that clings to every bite.
The hardest part? Waiting for it to cool slightly before diving in.
Goat Cheese Scalloped Potatoes Substitutions and Variations
While that perfect recipe is wonderful, adaptability is the soul of great cooking.
I’ve got several delicious twists you might enjoy trying.
Can’t find goat cheese? Substitute cream cheese or even a sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles.
Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk (though the creaminess will diminish slightly).
Russet potatoes work beautifully if Yukons aren’t available.
For herb variations, try rosemary, thyme, or dill instead of chives.
Want more protein? Layer in crispy bacon, ham, or shredded chicken between potato slices.
Caramelized mushrooms make a fantastic vegetarian addition that adds wonderful umami depth.
What to Serve with Goat Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
Pairing the right dishes with goat cheese scalloped potatoes can elevate your entire meal from good to absolutely memorable.
These rich, creamy potatoes naturally complement proteins like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a simple baked salmon.
I’m partial to serving them alongside a bright arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette—the peppery greens and acidic dressing cut through the decadence of the potatoes.
Need something heartier? Try roasted brussels sprouts with bacon or steamed green beans with almonds.
Final Thoughts
These goat cheese scalloped potatoes have truly earned their place as a standout side dish in any home cook’s repertoire. The combination of creamy goat cheese and perfectly tender potatoes creates magic in your mouth, while those caramelized onions add just the right savory note.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can dress it up for holidays or serve it alongside a simple roast chicken for Sunday dinner. For a complete comfort food meal, consider pairing it with a hearty potato soup that combines both pureed and chunky textures.
The leftovers, if you’re lucky enough to have any, taste even better the next day—the flavors meld together beautifully overnight. For another simple homemade treat that requires minimal effort, you might enjoy making banana bread with those overripe fruits sitting on your counter.
