If you’re craving a warm, bubbling casserole that combines silky potatoes, a blanket of rich cheese, and the irresistible aroma of garlic, then Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are about to become your new kitchen staple. This dish is the ultimate comfort food—every forkful offers creamy, garlicky layers with just the right balance of sharp cheddar, smooth mozzarella, and that unmistakable hint of Parmesan. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply seeking the coziest side dish for dinner, this recipe guarantees applause at the table. Let’s dive right into these mouthwatering Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes and see what makes them truly unforgettable!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role—potatoes for that classic creaminess, cheeses for depth and gooeyness, and a touch of garlic for a savory kick. Here’s what you’ll be gathering to make your casserole shine.
- Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes: Their starch lends an unbeatable creaminess, and thin slices ensure even baking.
- Unsalted butter: This forms a luscious base for your cheese sauce and adds a subtle richness.
- Garlic, minced: The star ingredient that infuses the dish with deep, aromatic flavor.
- All-purpose flour: It helps thicken your sauce, binding the dairy and cheese into a velvety blanket for the potatoes.
- Whole milk: Provides richness while keeping the sauce smooth and light.
- Heavy cream: For that extra level of decadence—this is what makes the potatoes so luxurious.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors together and seasons the potatoes from within.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and enhances the garlic’s flavor.
- Onion powder: Subtly boosts the savory backbone of the cheese sauce.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The main cheesy event, giving each bite its classic, bold taste.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings that irresistible, stretchy melt everyone loves.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty finish to the top.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For a bright, fresh garnish that wakes up the rich flavors.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray—this prevents sticking (and helps those crispy edges form). Set the dish aside while you move on to the rest of your prep.
Step 2: Slice the Potatoes Evenly
Grab your Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes and slice them as thinly as possible—about 1/8 inch thick. A mandoline works wonders for uniform slices (and a speedy prep), but a sharp knife and steady hand work, too. Even slices guarantee every layer cooks through and absorbs that luscious cheese sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for a minute or two, just until fragrant—don’t let it brown! Sprinkle in the flour and whisk it with the butter and garlic to create a roux. Once it’s bubbling gently, slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to banish any lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for 3–4 minutes. Stir in the salt, black pepper, onion powder, and the first cup of sharp cheddar cheese. Watch as the cheese melts into a smooth, dreamy sauce—it’s the heart of your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes.
Step 4: Layer the Potatoes and Cheese Sauce
Time to build those irresistible layers. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes across the bottom of your prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly like fallen dominoes. Pour half of your cheesy garlic sauce evenly over them, using a spatula to make sure every corner is covered. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and sauce—don’t stress perfection, rustic is beautiful here.
Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping
For that signature golden top, sprinkle the remaining cheddar, all of the mozzarella, and the Parmesan cheese evenly over your final layer. You’re setting the stage for the bubbling, irresistible crust that Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are known for.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Cover the dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 30 minutes. This gives the potatoes a jump start on cooking through while keeping everything moist. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 25–30 minutes. When the top is golden and the cheese is bubbling, peek inside to make sure the potatoes are fork-tender. Let your masterpiece rest for 10 minutes—this helps it set and makes serving so much easier.
Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy
Right before bringing your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes to the table, sprinkle a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley over the top. This adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that balances all those creamy, garlicky flavors. Now, dig in!
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic and brightens up each serving, cutting through the richness beautifully. If you’re feeling extra, a dusting of chives or even sliced green onions adds a subtle kick and gorgeous color. For dinner parties, try grating a little extra Parmesan over the top right before serving—those salty, nutty notes take every bite up a notch.
Side Dishes
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with so many main courses. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, glazed ham, or grilled steak for a special occasion. On the lighter side, a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli brings balance to the plate, letting the potatoes be the star without overwhelming your guests.
Creative Ways to Present
Individual ramekins make for a charming, dinner-party-friendly version, perfect for impressing guests with their own personal servings of Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes. Alternatively, use cookie cutters to punch out potato rounds before layering them for a fun, geometric effect. For an eye-catching twist, blend a mix of Yukon Gold and purple potatoes for stunning color contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Let the potatoes cool completely, then cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes will stay delicious for up to three days without losing their creamy texture.
Freezing
To freeze, let the potatoes cool to room temperature, then wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, or portion individual servings into freezer-safe containers. They’ll keep fresh in the freezer for up to one month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results—this helps preserve the creamy sauce and tender potatoes.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly—about 20 to 30 minutes. For a golden top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes. Single servings can also be microwaved, but the oven is best for returning that crisp, cheesy finish to your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes balance creaminess and structure beautifully, red potatoes or even sweet potatoes work as delicious alternatives—just be sure to slice them thinly for even baking.
Do Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes work as a main dish?
Definitely. Just add sautéed greens or a crisp salad on the side and you’ve got a cozy vegetarian meal. For extra heft, try layering in cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed mushrooms between the potatoes.
What’s the secret to getting evenly tender potatoes?
A mandoline slicer is your friend for ultra-thin, even slices. Also, be sure to layer your potatoes flat and pour the cheese sauce evenly—this ensures every slice soaks up that creamy goodness and bakes to tender perfection.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! Assemble the casserole a few hours ahead, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes if needed. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making this a fantastic make-ahead side dish.
How do I get a crispier top?
For extra crunch, remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking and broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Keep a close eye so the cheese doesn’t burn—just turns perfectly golden, bubbly, and irresistible!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the warmth and joy of sharing a bubbling dish of Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes with family or friends. This is comfort food at its finest—simple, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Give these potatoes a try and get ready to watch every last spoonful disappear!
Print
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy and flavorful delight of Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a rich garlic-infused cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection. A perfect side dish for any occasion!
Ingredients
Potatoes:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, cook until fragrant. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add milk and cream, simmer until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and cheddar cheese.
- Layer the potatoes: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over them. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Rest and garnish: Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
- Use a mandoline for evenly sliced potatoes.
- For added flavor, consider layering cooked bacon or sautéed onions.
- This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
