Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
If you are craving a comfort food that feels like a warm hug, look no further than these Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes. This luscious dish combines tender, thinly sliced potatoes drenched in a creamy, garlicky cheese sauce that melts in your mouth. Every bite bursts with layers of sharp cheddar, fragrant thyme, and just the right touch of garlic, making it a standout side or even a crowd-pleasing centerpiece. Whether for a special occasion or simply to elevate your weeknight dinner, these Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes deliver rich flavor and satisfying texture that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each essential component plays a vital role. Every ingredient adds something special—from the golden potatoes providing a hearty base to the creamy dairy and aromatic herbs creating irresistible depth and irresistible aroma.
- Potatoes (3 lbs, Yukon Gold or Russet): These varieties offer the perfect balance of creaminess and structure when sliced thin for scalloped layers.
- Butter (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps carry the garlic flavor through the sauce.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with a warm, savory undertone that enhances every bite.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates a luscious, velvety texture that clings beautifully to each potato slice.
- Milk (1 cup): Lightens the cream just enough to keep the sauce silky but not too heavy.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded): Delivers bold cheesiness and melty goodness all through the dish.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Elevates all flavor elements perfectly without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth and mild spice contrast.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a gentle smoky note and beautiful color to the topping.
- Fresh thyme (1 tablespoon) or dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds aromatic, herbal brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Offers a slightly nutty, crispy finish once baked on top.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Potatoes
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then peel your potatoes and slice them as thinly as possible using a sharp knife or mandoline. To keep them from browning and to remove some starch, immediately place the slices in cold water while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter
In a saucepan set over medium heat, melt the butter gently. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until it starts to smell fragrant, making sure not to brown or burn it, which could cause bitterness. This step unlocks the flavor soul of your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Next, pour in the heavy cream and milk, gently bringing the mixture to a simmer. Whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese along with salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme until the sauce is smooth and glossy. This sauce will coat every tender potato slice with melty, cheesy love.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Drain the potato slices well. Then, in a greased baking dish, arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer. Pour half of the cheese sauce on top, spreading it evenly. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the surface for that perfectly golden crust.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Tender
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 45 minutes to let the potatoes soften and cook through. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to develop a bubbly, golden-brown finishing touch that invites eager forkfuls.
Step 6: Let it Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, allow your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes to rest for about 10 minutes. This brief cooldown lets the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving much easier without losing any of that creamy delight.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Garnishes
Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top for a fresh green pop and a delicate herbal contrast to the rich, cheesy layers. A light drizzle of truffle oil or a few extra thyme leaves can also add a classy finish.
Side Dishes
These Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes shine wonderfully alongside roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables also pair beautifully, offering a fresh balance to the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the scalloped potatoes in individual ramekins for an elegant individual portion. Or try layering the potatoes with caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor complexity that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making them even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and taste.
Reheating
Rewarm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions heat well in the microwave, though you may lose a bit of that crispy top.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese besides cheddar?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives a classic flavor, you can experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or a smoky smoked gouda to change the character of your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeling helps achieve a smooth, tender texture, but if you want to keep some rustic skin and added nutrition, you can leave it on as long as you scrub them well and slice thinly.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use coconut or oat milk in place of dairy, and choose a dairy-free cheese to keep the creamy texture while accommodating dietary needs.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
Try to slice them about 1/8 inch thick. Thin slices ensure even cooking and a melt-in-your-mouth bite that’s key to the best scalloped potatoes.
What is the best way to avoid watery scalloped potatoes?
Soaking the potatoes in cold water removes excess starch that can cause a soggy dish. Also, draining well before layering and letting the dish rest before serving help keep it creamy but not watery.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a warm, comforting plate of Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes. This recipe is a timeless favorite that brings warmth and smiles to any table. I promise you, once you try these rich, garlicky, cheesy layers, they’ll become your go-to side dish for holidays or cozy dinners any time of year. So grab those potatoes, and get ready to make your kitchen smell amazing while creating pure comfort food magic.
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Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes feature thinly sliced Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes baked in a rich, creamy garlic-cheddar sauce with a golden Parmesan crust. This comforting side dish balances the sharpness of cheddar with aromatic thyme and garlic, perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family meals.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Aromatics
- 3 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
Dairy and Cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Spices
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the potatoes evenly.
- Prepare Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin, even rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife. Place the slices in cold water to prevent browning and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it to maintain a mellow garlic flavor.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Whisk in shredded sharp cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme until smooth and fully combined. Remove the sauce from heat.
- Layer Potatoes and Sauce: Drain the potato slices well. Arrange half the potatoes in the bottom of a greased baking dish, then pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes.
- Top with Remaining Layers: Layer the remaining potato slices on top, pouring the remaining cheese sauce over them. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top to add a crispy, golden crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the scalloped potatoes cool for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
Notes
- Using Yukon Gold potatoes gives a creamy texture, but Russet potatoes can be used for a fluffier outcome.
- Slice potatoes uniformly for even cooking; a mandoline slicer is recommended.
- For extra flavor, add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.
- If you want a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and milk.
- You can prepare this dish a day ahead; just cover and refrigerate before baking.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes, garlic potatoes, baked potato casserole, comfort food, holiday side dish
