Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re ready to experience potato heaven, then these Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are about to steal the show. Picture it: tender, thinly sliced potatoes swimming in a creamy, cheesy sauce, with a subtle garlic kick that perfectly balances everything. It’s like the best comfort food you could imagine, baked to golden perfection with layers of gooey cheese. Trust me, once you take a bite, you won’t want to stop! Whether you’re serving them for a cozy dinner at home, bringing them to a family gathering, or just indulging in a dish that feels like a warm hug, this recipe has you covered. Are you ready to dive into this cheesy, garlicky goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

This dish isn’t just about filling your belly—it’s about creating a moment. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Versatile: These potatoes are perfect for almost any occasion, whether you’re making a family dinner feel extra special or preparing a side that’s guaranteed to impress at a party. They’re just as suited for a casual meal as they are for a holiday spread.

Budget-Friendly: You don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients to make something this delicious! With simple pantry staples like potatoes, garlic, and cheese, you can create a dish that tastes indulgent without breaking the bank.

Quick and Easy: No need to stress about complicated steps. This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly, so even if you’re not a seasoned cook, you can still create something truly special.

Customizable: Want to switch things up? You can play around with the cheese blend or add a dash of herbs like rosemary or thyme. It’s super easy to make it your own!

Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. The combination of creamy cheese, garlic, and tender potatoes is impossible to resist.

Ingredients in Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

This recipe uses simple ingredients, but don’t let that fool you—what you end up with is pure magic. Here’s what you’ll need:

Potatoes: The heart of this dish. Thinly sliced potatoes bake up beautifully, softening into tender layers. They’re the perfect base to soak up all that cheesy goodness.

Garlic: Adds that savory kick that’ll have everyone asking what the secret ingredient is. Fresh garlic really makes all the difference!

Cheese: A combination of cheddar and parmesan cheese creates the ultimate meltiness. The cheddar gives that classic cheesy flavor, while the parmesan adds a lovely depth.

Heavy Cream & Milk: These two combine to make the sauce ultra-creamy and indulgent. The heavy cream is what turns this dish into a rich, velvety masterpiece.

Butter: Adds that golden richness and a little extra indulgence. It’s not a scalloped potato without it!

Herbs & Seasonings: A pinch of salt, pepper, and some dried thyme will bring everything together. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even throw in a little nutmeg for that cozy, comforting vibe.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get to the good stuff—the steps that will turn these humble ingredients into a delicious, cheesy masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your potatoes cook evenly and get that crispy, golden top we all love.

Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring gently. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and dried thyme, and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until it’s slightly thickened.

Layer the Potatoes

In a greased baking dish, start layering the sliced potatoes. Place the first layer of potatoes, making sure they overlap just a bit. Then, pour a portion of the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Add a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese and parmesan. Repeat the process until all the potatoes are layered, finishing with a generous topping of cheese.

Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and pop it in the oven for about 45 minutes. The potatoes should be tender by this point, but the cheese won’t be fully browned just yet.

Add the Finishing Touch

Once the potatoes are tender, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you can even broil it for a couple of minutes to get that perfect crispy top.

Let it Rest and Serve

Once you pull it out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will help the sauce set and make it easier to cut. Then, grab your knife, cut a big serving, and get ready for the cheesy goodness!

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

This dish is perfect on its own or paired with other comforting sides. Here are a few ways to serve it:

Grilled Meat: Serve it alongside a perfectly grilled steak, roast chicken, or even a juicy pork chop for a balanced meal that’s full of flavor.

Green Veggies: Fresh, crisp green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts are the perfect veggie side to cut through the richness of the potatoes.

Salads: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy potatoes.

Crusty Bread: You can never go wrong with warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce—trust me, you’ll want every drop!

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can slice the potatoes and prepare the sauce ahead of time to save time later. Just layer everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Dietary Adjustments: For a lighter version, swap out the heavy cream for a lighter milk or use a plant-based milk and cheese to make it dairy-free.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven for the best texture.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the heavy cream with something else?
A1: You can use a lighter milk if you prefer, but the heavy cream is what gives it that rich, creamy texture.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! It freezes really well. Just make sure to cool it completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time slightly.

Q7: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A7: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your cheese and other ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Conclusion

There you have it—Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes that are sure to impress every time! Whether you’re enjoying them as a comforting side or a decadent main dish, you’re in for a treat. Don’t forget to share with friends and family, because this recipe is definitely a crowd-pleaser.

Print