Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are a rich and creamy side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a velvety cheese sauce infused with garlic, then baked to golden, bubbly perfection. This classic comfort food is ideal for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Cheesy: Layers of tender potatoes smothered in a luscious cheese sauce.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A favorite side dish for any occasion.
• Customizable: Add extra flavors or toppings to suit your taste.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Feeds a crowd and pairs well with any protein.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), thinly sliced
• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Heavy cream
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives

Directions

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Slice Potatoes: Wash, peel (optional), and thinly slice the potatoes into even rounds, about 1/8-inch thick.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

1. Cook Garlic: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Make a Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until golden.
3. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking to combine. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in half of the cheddar cheese and all the Parmesan until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble and Bake:

1. Layer Potatoes: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
2. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
3. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Serve:

Let the scalloped potatoes cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 6-8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Bacon Lovers: Add cooked, crumbled bacon between the layers for a smoky twist.
• Herb-Infused: Mix fresh thyme or rosemary into the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Lighter Option: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
• Extra Cheesy: Use a blend of cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Colby Jack.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze before baking or after cooling completely. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

What type of potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their starch content and texture.

Can I skip the heavy cream?

Yes, substitute with whole milk or a combination of milk and broth for a lighter version.

How do I ensure the potatoes cook evenly?

Slice the potatoes evenly and layer them tightly for consistent cooking.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce.

How do I prevent the top from drying out?

Cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking, then uncover to brown the top.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, thinly sliced onions or spinach work well layered between the potatoes.

What’s the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes typically have a cream-based sauce, while au gratin includes layers of cheese between the potatoes.

How do I avoid a runny sauce?

Cook the cheese sauce until thickened before layering, and use starchy potatoes for better structure.

Can I use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version?

Yes, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese for a vegan or dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds. With their creamy, garlicky sauce and perfectly tender potatoes, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether for a holiday feast or a casual dinner, these scalloped potatoes are the perfect addition to your table. Customize them to your liking and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!

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