Who says comfort food has to take hours? If you’re craving comfort food like creamy, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth scalloped potatoes but don’t have the time (or patience) for traditional baking, I’ve got you covered! This microwave version delivers all the rich, buttery goodness you love—in a fraction of the time.
Whether you need a last-minute side dish, a quick weeknight dinner solution, or just an excuse to indulge in creamy potato heaven, this method is a game-changer. No oven? No problem. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty microwave, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it’s been slow-baked for hours.
Ingredients for Scalloped Potatoes in the Microwave
- Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- butter
- heavy cream
- kosher salt
- ground black pepper
- cornstarch
- thyme leaves
- Optional: mozzarella cheese
Table of Contents
How to make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes in the Microwave
The thicker the potatoes the longer this takes to cook, so I recommend using a mandoline to cut the potatoes as thin as possible.
Place the sliced potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and dot with butter.
Cook in the microwave for 4-5 minutes or until the potatoes are soft when gently pierced with a fork or knife.
In a separate bowl, mix the heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, cornstarch, and thyme leaves until the cornstarch is well incorporated. Pour the mixture over the potatoes and gently mix the dish to distribute the liquid evenly over the potato slices.
Continue cooking in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until the cream thickens slightly and bubbles evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
At this point, you have two options:
- You can melt the cheese for about 1 minute in the microwave.
- Or if you want bubbly, browned cheese, turn on the broil on the oven and melt the cheese in the broiler for 2-3 minutes.
Serve immediately.
Suggestions for adding extra flavors
Can I add other ingredients for extra flavor?
Absolutely! You can customize this potato dish by adding:
- cooked bacon
- caramelized onions
- blue cheese
- thinly sliced ham
- crushed red pepper flakes
Reheating
- Reheating Instructions: Cover the dish with a lid and microwave 3-5 minutes, or until the center is hot. To check, insert a fork in the center and carefully touch it. If the fork is hot, the potatoes are ready to be served.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Everything to Know About Making Scalloped Potatoes in the Microwave
What is scalloped potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes is a timeless side dish made with thinly sliced potatoes layered in a rich, creamy sauce, and you can turn it into scalloped potatoes au gratin topped with melted cheese for extra indulgence. Baked until golden and bubbling, it’s the perfect companion to a Sunday roast, holiday feast, or even a cozy weeknight dinner.
Can I cook scalloped potato gratin entirely in the microwave?
Yes, you can make the entire dish in the microwave. This microwave version shortens the process by quickly cooking the potatoes in the microwave, making the cook time less than half that of the traditional oven method. For a crispy top, you can finish it in a preheated oven, or skip the extra step entirely and just have a creamy, comfort food in minutes.
How long do scalloped potatoes last in the refrigerator?
They can be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed dish for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish with a lid and microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze scalloped potatoes. After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely. Once cooled, cover with the lid and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen potatoes to a microwave-safe dish—no thawing needed—and reheat for 4-6 minutes, depending on the portion size, until heated through.
Can I make scalloped potatoes dairy-free?
Yes, you can make the recipe dairy-free by substituting the butter and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like vegan butter and full-fat coconut milk. You can also use a dairy-free cheese option or skip the cheese for a lighter version.
What to serve with Scalloped Potatoes
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Creamy Scalloped Potatoes in the Microwave
Ingredients
- 6 small Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, diced small
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to HIgh Broil or 500°F.
- While the oven preheats, place the sliced potatoes and butter in microwave-safe dish with a lid.
- Cook in the microwave for 4 minutes or until the potatoes are soft when gently pierced with a fork or knife.
- In a separate bowl, mix the heavy cream, salt, pepper, cornstarch, and thyme leaves until the cornstarch is well incorporated. Pour the mixture over the potatoes and gently shake the dish to distribute the liquid evenly over the potato slices. Cover with the lid.
- Continue cooking in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until the cream thickens slightly and bubbles evenly.
- Carefully wipe down the sides of the dish, then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Place the dish, uncovered, in the preheated oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Carefully remove from the oven and serve as desired.
Notes
You can use half and half or 1/2 cup cream and 1/2 cup milk. I have found that using part milk makes it a little creamier and not so thick.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
2Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 260Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 142mgCarbohydrates: 41gFiber: 4gSugar: 2gProtein: 6g
Any nutritional information on justmicrowaveit.com should only be used as a general guideline. This information is provided as a courtesy and there is no guarantee that the information will be completely accurate.
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