Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

An easy and delicious side dish perfect for the holidays or any weeknight dinner! These Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes feature thinly sliced Yukon potatoes baked in a velvety garlic-infused cheese sauce until bubbling and golden. Comforting, flavorful, and sure to impress any crowd, this dish is versatile enough to be served at family gatherings or casual weeknight meals.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Potatoes
• For the Cheese Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
• Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
• Step 4: Layer the Dish
• Step 5: Bake
• Step 6: Cool Before Serving
• How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
• Pair with Proteins
• Add Fresh Salads
• Enhance with Sauces
• How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
• Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
• Reheating Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?
• What type of potatoes is best for scalloped potatoes?
• Can I customize the cheese used?
• How do I know when my scalloped potatoes are done?
• Are Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and three types of cheese creates a creamy, savory experience that elevates any meal.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish without breaking a sweat.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or even a cozy weeknight dinner, these scalloped potatoes fit any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This comforting dish is sure to impress guests with its rich flavors and appealing presentation.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving, making your dinner planning easier.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparing Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
• Medium saucepan
• 9 x 13 casserole dish
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandoline slicer: Ensures even slicing of the potatoes for uniform cooking.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for making the cheese sauce without splattering.
• Casserole dish: Provides ample space for layering potatoes and sauce for optimal baking.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 2.5–3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced (1/8 inch; no need to peel)
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 8–10 cloves garlic, minced

For the Cheese Sauce

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dish bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Scrub and clean the potatoes thoroughly. Slice them into 1/8-inch rounds using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife. Set aside for layering later.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until soft but not browned. Stir in the flour to form a roux.

Once combined, gradually add the milk, chicken broth, thyme, and salt. Stir continuously until you bring it to a gentle boil. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

Turn off the heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until combined; it’s okay if some cheese doesn’t fully melt.

Step 4: Layer the Dish

Lightly grease a 9 x 13 casserole dish. Layer 1/3 of the sliced potatoes evenly in the dish. Follow with 1/3 of the cheese sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with remaining cheese sauce on top.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that time has elapsed, remove foil and continue baking for an additional 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and potatoes are fork tender.

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set properly. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes!

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement this rich and creamy dish.

Pair with Proteins

• Roast Chicken: The creamy texture of the potatoes pairs wonderfully with juicy roast chicken, enhancing the flavors of both dishes.
• Grilled Steak: A perfectly grilled steak complements the richness of the cheesy potatoes, making for an indulgent meal.
• Baked Salmon: The lightness of baked salmon balances the heaviness of scalloped potatoes, creating a well-rounded plate.

Add Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing contrast to the cheesy goodness, making your meal more satisfying.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens provide a fresh and healthy side that cuts through the richness of the potatoes.

Enhance with Sauces

• Garlic Aioli: Drizzling garlic aioli over scalloped potatoes can add an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
• Balsamic Reduction: A splash of balsamic reduction brings a tangy sweetness that beautifully complements your dish.

How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

To ensure your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips. They will help you achieve creamy, flavorful results that impress your guests.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Yukon gold potatoes and high-quality cheese significantly enhance flavor and texture.
• Slice Evenly: Cutting the potatoes into uniform 1/8-inch slices ensures even cooking and prevents some pieces from being undercooked.
• Layer Properly: Be sure to layer the potatoes and cheese sauce evenly to guarantee every bite is rich in flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to cool for about 10 minutes before serving helps the sauce set, making it easier to serve.
• Broil for Crispiness: If you desire an extra crispy top, broil for a few minutes at the end of baking—just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

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Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

While Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes can stand alone as a star side dish, pairing them with other sides can create a more balanced meal. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any extra cheese sauce left on your plate.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while complementing the creamy potatoes.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots: These sweet carrots provide a nice contrast to the savory scalloped potatoes, enhancing overall flavor.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of your main dish.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with cheesy dishes and makes for a fun, casual addition to any meal.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with quinoa or rice add another layer of flavor and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes, avoiding common pitfalls can make a big difference in the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Ignoring potato thickness: Slicing potatoes too thick can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for 1/8-inch slices for the best results.
• Using raw garlic: Adding raw garlic directly can result in a strong flavor. Always sauté garlic briefly to enhance its sweetness.
• Skipping the cheese sauce: Neglecting to coat all potatoes in cheese sauce leads to dry spots. Ensure every layer gets ample sauce for creamy results.
• Not letting it cool: Serving immediately can cause the sauce to run. Allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes before serving for better consistency.
• Baking without foil: Baking uncovered at the start can dry out the top. Cover with foil during initial baking to keep moisture in, then uncover for browning.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes can last up to 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil.
• These potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to maintain creaminess.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake when ready to serve!

What type of potatoes is best for scalloped potatoes?

Yukon gold potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape and provide great flavor.

Can I customize the cheese used?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.

How do I know when my scalloped potatoes are done?

They are done when the top is golden brown and a fork easily pierces through the potatoes.

Are Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes offer a delightful comfort food experience, perfect as a side dish for any occasion. Their creamy texture and rich flavor will impress your guests and family alike. Plus, feel free to customize with different cheeses or herbs for a unique twist! Enjoy this versatile dish at your next gathering or holiday celebration!