As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with the earthy scent of Yukon Gold potatoes wrapped around me like a warm embrace. There's something incredibly satisfying about making Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes from scratch, especially when you can see the joy on your loved ones' faces. This dish is not only an indulgent comfort food perfect for family gatherings, but it’s also a delightful way to elevate any weeknight meal with its creamy, cheesy goodness. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, so you can impress guests without fussing for hours in the kitchen. Are you ready to dive into this cheesy adventure and whip up a heartwarming dish that will have everyone asking for seconds?
Why Are Scalloped Potatoes So Irresistible?
Comforting, cheesy flavors will have everyone clamoring for this dish at the table! Your taste buds will rejoice as layers of Yukon Gold potatoes soak up a luscious blend of creamy cheeses. Easy preparation means you can create a gourmet experience without hours of cooking. Perfect for cozy nights, this recipe effortlessly pairs with everything from a juicy roast to a fresh salad, making it versatile enough for any occasion. And for those who love garlic, check out my delicious Cheese Garlic Crack for another savory treat!
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• Yukon Gold potatoes – a creamy texture and buttery flavor make them ideal for scalloped dishes.
For the Sauce
• Butter – enriches the sauce and adds a luscious mouthfeel.
• Diced onion – brings sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
• Minced garlic – infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma and a kick of zest.
• All-purpose flour – acts as a thickening agent to create a velvety cheese sauce.
• Milk – creates a creamy base that brings the sauce together.
• Chicken broth – adds additional savory richness to the sauce.
• Dried thyme – complements the garlic and potatoes with an earthy hint.
• Salt – enhances the overall flavors, balancing the richness of the cheeses.
For the Cheesy Topping
• Shredded cheddar cheese – gives a sharp, tangy flavor that melts beautifully.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – adds a gooey stretch that makes each bite delightful.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – provides a salty, nutty finish that elevates the dish.
Dive into making these delightful Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes, and let your kitchen fill with their irresistible aroma!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will create the perfect environment for your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes to bake evenly, ensuring that the layers of creamy goodness meld together perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Scrub and clean the 3 lbs of Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly under running water. Using a sharp knife, slice them into ⅛-inch rounds, setting them aside in a bowl. This uniform thickness will allow for even cooking and ensure a tender, delightful texture.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of butter. Once the butter is shimmering, add 1 cup of diced onion and ¼ cup of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant, but be careful not to let them brown.
Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce
To the sautéed mixture, stir in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, forming a roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of chicken broth, whisking continuously to remove lumps. Increase the heat slightly, bringing this creamy mixture to a gentle boil. Cook until it thickens, adding 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of salt for flavor.
Step 5: Add the Cheeses
Once your cheese sauce has thickened, turn off the heat and stir in 1 cup each of shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until all the cheeses melt and the sauce is smooth and creamy, ensuring every bite of your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes is packed with flavor.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Lightly grease a 9 x 13 casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray. Layer one-third of the sliced potatoes evenly in the dish, followed by one-third of the cheese sauce. Repeat this layering two more times, finishing with a generous layer of cheese sauce on top to create a golden, bubbly crust.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Cover the assembled casserole dish with aluminum foil, preventing the top from browning too quickly. Bake in your preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the potatoes to steam and soften in the creamy richness of the cheese sauce.
Step 8: Uncover and Brown
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil to let the top crisp up. Continue baking for another 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and a fork easily pierces through the potatoes, revealing their tender, inviting layers.
Step 9: Let It Cool
Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld further and makes serving easier, presenting your beautifully crafted Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes in all their glory!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can slice the Yukon Gold potatoes and prepare the cheese sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply layer the sliced potatoes in your greased casserole dish, then pour the cooled cheese sauce over the layers. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent browning and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure everything is heated through. This way, you save time on busy nights without sacrificing that comforting, cheesy goodness!
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these scalloped potatoes to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the dairy products with coconut milk and almond cheese for a creamy, plant-based twist. This variation is perfect for those avoiding dairy yet wanting to enjoy that comforting creaminess.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or oregano to the cheese sauce for a fragrant herb boost. The herb-infused flavor elevates the dish, giving it a rustic and aromatic charm.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a delightful heat. This fiery twist will excite your palate and is sure to please spice lovers at the table.
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Bacon Bliss: Incorporate crispy bacon bits layered between the potatoes for an irresistible savory crunch. The smokiness of bacon complements the creamy cheese perfectly, making each bite a flavor sensation.
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in some steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms between the layers for an added veggie punch. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds delightful textures to each bite.
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Cheesy Three-Ways: Combine different cheeses, like Gouda and Gruyère, along with the cheddar and mozzarella, for a rich, complex flavor. Each cheese brings its unique character, turning this dish into a gourmet experience.
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Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top before serving for a nutty crunch. The contrast of textures adds a unique dimension, making your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes even more enticing!
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Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy finish, top the cheese layer with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking. This delightful crunch on top beautifully contrasts with the creamy layers below.
Your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes can be anything you want them to be! Enjoy experimenting with these variations to cater to your family’s taste. And while you’re at it, you might want to serve them alongside some Cheesy Baked Asparagus for a perfect balance!
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbling.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled scalloped potatoes in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the cheesy scalloped potatoes at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illness.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
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Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a creamy texture. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they may become mushy.
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Avoid Lumpy Sauce: When adding milk and chicken broth, gradually whisk them into the roux to prevent lumps from forming. A smooth cheese sauce ensures your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are velvety.
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Layering Matters: Make sure to layer the potatoes and cheese sauce evenly. This promotes even cooking and ensures that every bite is perfectly cheesy and flavorful.
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Don’t Rush the Baking: Properly cover the dish with foil at first to allow steaming, but uncover it to achieve that golden, crispy top. This contrast adds a delightful crunch!
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Rest Before Serving: Letting the casserole sit for 10 minutes after baking allows the flavors to settle, making it easier to cut and serve without falling apart.
What to Serve with Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
There's nothing quite like pairing a creamy, indulgent dish with sides that enhance its heartwarming flavors.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated chicken complements the richness of the scalloped potatoes and adds a protein boost to your meal.
- Steamed Broccoli: The slight crunch and vibrant color of steamed broccoli not only brightens the plate but adds needed freshness.
- Crispy Bacon Bits: Sprinkling crispy bacon on top before serving adds a smoky crunch that elevates the entire dish to new heights.
- Tangy Coleslaw: A cool, tangy slaw provides a refreshing contrast, cutting through the creaminess with a delightful crunch.
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread alongside for dipping into that luscious cheese sauce—perfect for sopping up every bit!
- Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of both the scalloped potatoes and any meat.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp adds a sweet finish to the meal, balancing the savory scalloped potatoes with its fruity goodness.
- Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavors of roasted asparagus offer a sophisticated and healthy side that aligns wonderfully with the potatoes.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad, with its creamy dressing, croutons, and crisp romaine, will complement the decadent scalloped potatoes nicely.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked stuffed mushrooms provide an elegant touch, with umami flavors that pair effectively with the cheesy goodness.
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold potatoes are the ideal choice for this dish because of their creamy texture and buttery flavor. Avoid using starchy potatoes like Russets, as they may become mushy during baking.
How should I store leftover Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes?
I recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F until they’re warmed through and bubbling on top for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Can I freeze Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze these potatoes! Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my cheese sauce is lumpy?
No worries! If you find your cheese sauce gets lumpy, there’s a quick fix. After adding the milk and chicken broth, whisk continuously and gradually. If lumps still form, use an immersion blender to smooth it out or strain it through a fine sieve for a velvety finish.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very importantly! This recipe contains dairy, which makes it unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy. You can substitute the milk and cheeses with lactose-free alternatives or vegan cheese for a dairy-free variation. Just ensure other ingredients align with your dietary needs.
How long can I leave Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes at room temperature?
It's best to avoid leaving your cheesy goodness at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as this can lead to foodborne illnesses. Always refrigerate leftovers promptly!
Creamy Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes to Cozy Up Your Dinner
Equipment
- 9 x 13 casserole dish
- medium saucepan
- sharp knife
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes ideal for scalloped dishes
For the Sauce
- ¼ cup Butter enriches the sauce
- 1 cup Diced onion adds sweetness
- ¼ cup Minced garlic infuses the dish with flavor
- ¼ cup All-purpose flour acts as a thickening agent
- 2 cups Milk creates a creamy base
- 1 cup Chicken broth adds savory richness
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme complements garlic
- 1 teaspoon Salt enhances overall flavors
For the Cheesy Topping
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese sharp, tangy flavor
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese adds gooey stretch
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese provides a nutty finish
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Scrub and slice the Yukon Gold potatoes into ⅛-inch rounds.
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan, then sauté diced onion and minced garlic.
- Stir in flour to form a roux, then gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking continuously.
- Once thickened, stir in shredded cheeses until melted.
- Layer potatoes and cheese sauce in a greased casserole dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 35-45 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
