If you have a soft spot for comfort food that feels like a warm hug, this Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a rich, garlic-infused cheese sauce that bakes up golden and bubbly. Every bite is a perfect balance of creamy texture and sharp cheddar flavor, making it a standout side dish for any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the best results with this dish is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to create something truly delicious. Each one plays a crucial role, whether adding richness, texture, or a flavor punch that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Yukon gold or russet potatoes (2 ½ lbs): Thinly sliced for tender layers that bake evenly and soak up the creamy sauce.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and a perfect base for sautéing the garlic.
- Garlic cloves, minced (4): Elevate the dish with their fragrant, savory aroma.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Essential for thickening the cheese sauce into luscious perfection.
- Whole milk (1 ½ cups): Helps create a creamy texture without overpowering the cheese.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds indulgent richness and smoothness to the sauce.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (1 ½ cups): The star cheese that offers bold flavor and ooey-gooey goodness.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (½ cup): Brings a salty, nutty depth to the overall flavor.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances the dish and enhances the natural flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth and slight zing.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Rounds out the savory notes without overpowering the garlic.
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh pop of green to brighten the final presentation.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or a nonstick spray. This ensures your scalloped potatoes won’t stick and makes cleanup much easier.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s nicely bubbly. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown—that would make the flavor bitter. This step infuses the dish with that signature garlicky aroma.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Whisk in the flour to the garlic butter mixture, stirring constantly for about a minute to cook the raw flour taste out and form a roux. Slowly add the milk and cream while whisking, keeping the mixture smooth. Cook this for 3–5 minutes until it thickens into a velvety sauce. Once thickened, remove the pan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Keep stirring until the cheese melts fully and the sauce becomes creamy and luscious.
Step 4: Layer the Potatoes
Start by arranging half of the thin potato slices in the greased baking dish, overlapping them slightly to form a solid base. Pour half of the cheesy garlic sauce evenly over the potato layer. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce to build up those irresistible layers.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Tender
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes to allow the potatoes to soften in the sauce. Then remove the foil and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes until the top turns golden and bubbly. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese sauce has beautifully thickened and browned around the edges.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the sauce settle so it’s easier to serve and the flavors deepen. If you want to add a little fresh color and mild herbaceous flavor, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley offers a lovely burst of green that complements the golden brown cheese crust. For a little extra wow factor, you can add a light dusting of smoked paprika or some thinly sliced green onions.
Side Dishes
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes shine as a hearty side alongside roast chicken, prime rib, or glazed ham. They also pair beautifully with steamed vegetables like green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts to balance the richness of the potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive dinner, serve this dish in individual ramekins for perfectly portioned, elegant presentations. Layer it in a deep-dish pie plate for a rustic vibe that’s great for family-style sharing. You can also top with crispy bacon bits or a crumble of toasted breadcrumbs for added texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your scalloped potatoes tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy leftovers without any loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
This Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe freezes beautifully. For best results, freeze before baking, wrapped securely, for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding extra time if needed to ensure the potatoes are fully cooked through.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes uncovered to restore the bubbling cheese and crisp top. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that can make the potatoes a bit watery and less appetizing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, swapping in Gruyère or Monterey Jack will create delicious flavor variations. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite twist on this Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe.
What is the best way to slice the potatoes?
Using a mandoline slicer is ideal for getting evenly thin slices around 1/8 inch thick, which ensures they cook evenly and meld perfectly with the cheese sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
It would be challenging to replicate the creamy, cheesy texture without dairy, but you could try using dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives. Just keep in mind that the flavor and consistency might vary.
How long can leftovers be kept in the fridge?
Leftovers are best enjoyed within 3 days for peak freshness and flavor. Beyond that, potatoes might start losing texture and the cheese sauce can separate.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! Since this recipe contains no meat and uses only vegetarian-friendly ingredients, it’s a perfect hearty side dish for vegetarians.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. It’s the kind of dish everyone reaches for seconds and asks about at every gathering. Creamy, garlicky, and bursting with cheesy goodness—what’s not to love? Next time you want to treat yourself or impress guests with a classic, comforting dish, remember this recipe and enjoy the cozy vibes it brings to your table.
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Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy, cheesy, and garlicky scalloped potatoes made with thinly sliced Yukon gold or russet potatoes baked in a rich cheddar and Parmesan cheese sauce. This classic American side dish is perfect for holidays or family dinners, with layers of tender potatoes and a golden bubbly top.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 ½ lbs Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about ⅛ inch thick)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Garlic: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant but not browned, to develop flavor.
- Make Roux and Sauce: Whisk in the flour with the garlic butter and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring for 3–5 minutes until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Layer Potatoes and Sauce: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish in a slightly overlapping manner. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Repeat layering with the remaining potatoes and sauce, spreading evenly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook and absorb flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes to set before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh color contrast.
Notes
- Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin potato slices to ensure uniform cooking.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Make sure not to overcook garlic during sautéing to avoid bitterness.
- Letting the dish rest before serving helps the sauce thicken up for cleaner slices.
