The aroma of garlic wafts through the kitchen, conjuring memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. As I peel away the layers of Yukon Gold potatoes, I can’t help but feel excitement taking over—it's time to whip up a batch of Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, combining creamy layers and mouthwatering cheese that destined to be a crowd-pleaser at any table. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a magical transformation in the oven, it’s the perfect solution for those busy weekdays when you desire something homemade yet simple. Whether you're pairing it with grilled vegetables or roasted meats, this recipe promises to elevate your dinner to new heights. Who's ready to dive into this cheesy delight?
Why Will You Love Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes?
Unforgettable flavor: The combination of creamy cheeses and aromatic garlic creates an irresistible taste that everyone will crave.
Ease of preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly you can whip up this comforting side dish.
Versatile pairing: These scalloped potatoes complement a range of meals, from roasted meats to fresh salads, making them perfect for any occasion.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, these cheesy layers are guaranteed to impress your guests.
Make-ahead option: Prepare them in advance and simply bake when ready to serve—perfect for busy evenings!
Dive into this homemade goodness, and don’t forget to check out other comforting recipes like Creamy Potato Soup.
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients
Discover the delight of making cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes with this essential ingredient list!
For the Potatoes
• Yukon Gold potatoes – their creamy texture is perfect for this luscious dish.
For the Sauce
• Butter – it adds richness and depth to the flavor.
• Onion – this brings a sweet, savory base to your sauce.
• Garlic – freshly minced, it gives a burst of irresistible aroma and taste.
• All-purpose flour – used for thickening the sauce for a creamy consistency.
• Milk – adds creaminess that beautifully melds with the cheeses.
• Chicken broth – enhances flavor and adds depth to the sauce.
• Dried thyme – its earthy notes complement the richness of the dish.
• Salt – heightens the overall flavors and ensures balance.
For the Cheeses
• Shredded cheddar cheese – bring on the sharp flavor that melts beautifully.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – for extra creaminess and stretchy, gooey goodness.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – it adds a salty and nutty finish to your scalloped potatoes.
With this perfect lineup of ingredients, you're just a whisk and a bake away from creating your own cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes masterpiece! Enjoy the journey!
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 ensures a perfectly cooked, golden layer on top of your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients to make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Scrub and clean the 3 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the potatoes into ⅛-inch rounds. Arrange the slices neatly and set them aside—this prep work blends beautifully into the creamy layers of your dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of butter until it bubbles gently. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for 1 to 2 minutes until the onion softens yet remains translucent. Your kitchen will soon be filled with a delicious aroma as you prepare the base for your cheese sauce.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
Stir in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, creating a roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add ½ teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of salt. Heat the mixture until it gently boils and thickens slightly, about 5 minutes, creating a luscious sauce for your scalloped potatoes.
Step 5: Add the Cheeses
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and ¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are completely melted and integrated into the sauce, forming a creamy, cheesy delight that will envelop your potatoes.
Step 6: Layer the Potatoes
Lightly grease your 9 x 13 casserole dish to prevent sticking. Begin layering by placing one-third of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the dish. Follow with one-third of your prepared cheese sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, ensuring you finish with a luscious layer of cheese sauce on top.
Step 7: Bake Covered
Cover your casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften and absorb the flavor of the sauce. This step is crucial for achieving tender, perfectly cooked Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes.
Step 8: Bake Uncovered
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on your dish, looking for a beautiful golden brown layer on top and fork-tender potatoes underneath. This final baking will create that irresistible crust we all love.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once the Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are beautifully browned and bubbling, remove them from the oven. Let the dish cool for about 10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle and the cheese to firm up slightly. Your hearty, cheesy side dish is now ready to savor!
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Variations
Feel free to play around and customize this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!
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Dairy-Free: Swap out milk and cheeses for almond or oat milk and dairy-free cheese for a creamy texture.
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Vegetarian: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to cater to vegetarian diets while still retaining rich flavors.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sauté chopped jalapeños with the onions for a delightful heat that brings boldness to the dish.
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Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for an aromatic twist that elevates the classic garlic flavor, adding brightness and freshness.
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Mushroom Medley: Layer in sautéed mushrooms for added umami and texture. Their earthiness beautifully complements the creamy sauce.
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Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute half of the Yukon Gold potatoes with sweet potatoes for a colorful, nutrient-packed variation that's slightly sweeter. The combination is both comforting and unique.
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Bacon Boost: Incorporate crumbled, crispy bacon slices between potato layers for a mouthwatering, savory element that everyone will adore. It’s a crowd-pleasing twist!
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Cheesy Crust: Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese for a crunchy topping that contrasts the soft, creamy potatoes underneath.
With these variations, you're sure to create a dish that’s uniquely yours! While you're enjoying this cheesy magic, don't miss out on whipping up other comforting favorites like Creamy Potato Soup and Baked Mac and Cheese for more delightful meals.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the Yukon Gold potatoes and prepare your cheese sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply layer the sliced potatoes and cheese sauce in your casserole dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This prep in advance helps meld the flavors beautifully and saves you precious time on busy weeknights. When you're ready to serve, you can bake straight from the fridge—just extend the baking time by 10-15 minutes to ensure they heat thoroughly. With these make-ahead options, you'll enjoy deliciously cheesy results with minimal effort!
What to Serve With Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Creating a memorable meal is all about balance, and pairing your cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes with the right dishes can elevate your dining experience to new heights.
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Roast Chicken: Juicy, herb-infused roast chicken brings a savory counterpart that enhances the richness of the scalloped potatoes. The tender meat and crispy skin are a delightful contrast to the creamy layers.
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Grilled Asparagus: This vibrant green vegetable adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the potatoes. Simply tossed in olive oil and grilled to perfection, the slight char enhances their natural sweetness.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and a zesty dressing provide a refreshing and crunchy contrast. The salty Parmesan and croutons mimic the cheese in the potatoes, unifying the meal's flavors.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these glazed carrots offer a beautiful color and a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the scalloped potatoes. Their bright flavor adds a homey, comforting vibe to your plate.
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Grilled Salmon: The flaky texture and delicate flavor of the salmon create an ideal light match for the hearty potatoes. A squeeze of lemon over the fish complements the richness beautifully.
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Fresh Lemonade: For a refreshing beverage, zesty lemonade is the perfect thirst-quencher. Its bright citrus notes cut through the creamy richness of your cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes.
Pairing these options with your cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes will surely turn your meal into a delightful feast, inviting everyone to savor each bite!
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Fridge: Store any leftover Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the creamy texture and flavors.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the dish, place it in a freezer-safe container after it has completely cooled. You can freeze it for up to 3 months, ensuring a cozy meal is always at hand.
Thawing: To thaw, simply place the frozen potatoes in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes or until heated through.
Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil to retain moisture, and heat gently in the oven or microwave until warm. Enjoy those cheesy layers all over again!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality cheeses significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Avoid pre-shredded cheese for better melting.
Slice Evenly: Ensure uniform potato slices (⅛-inch) for even cooking. A mandoline slicer helps achieve this texture and prevents unevenly cooked potatoes.
Layering Matters: Alternate between potatoes and sauce when layering. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and ensures each potato slice gets coated in the rich cheesy sauce.
Cover and Uncover: Don't skip the foil cover during the first part of baking. It traps steam, helping the potatoes become fork-tender before adding that coveted golden-brown top.
Rest Before Serving: Allowing your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes to cool for about 10 minutes after baking lets the cheese set slightly and makes for neater servings.
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Yukon Gold potatoes?
Absolutely! When selecting Yukon Gold potatoes, look for firm ones with smooth, blemish-free skins. Avoid potatoes with dark spots or greenish hues, as these can be indicators of overripeness or potential bitterness. The fresher and cleaner the potatoes, the creamier your cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes will turn out!
What’s the best way to store leftover scalloped potatoes?
Sure thing! Store any leftover Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last for up to 3 days. Just remember to let them cool completely before sealing the container, as this helps retain their creamy texture and prevents moisture buildup.
Can I freeze Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes? How?
Very! If you want to freeze your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes, let the dish cool completely first. Choose a freezer-safe container and transfer the potatoes, making sure to cover them tightly. They're good for up to 3 months! When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes or until heated through.
What if my scalloped potatoes are watery?
That's a fantastic question! If you find your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes end up being too watery, it might be because the potatoes released too much moisture. To remedy this in the future, you can try briefly parboiling the potato slices before layering, or simply ensure you’re using a good ratio of cheese sauce to potatoes. A thicker roux can also help keep everything creamy and well-held together!
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Absolutely! For those with dietary restrictions, you can make the Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular all-purpose flour. Additionally, if lactose is a concern, consider using lactose-free milk and cheese alternatives, which still provide wonderful flavor and creaminess without sacrificing taste. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens if you're serving any guests with specific dietary needs!
Melty Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Your New Favorite Side
Equipment
- 9 x 13 casserole dish
- mandoline slicer
- Medium saucepan
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
For the Sauce
- ½ cup Butter adds richness and depth
- 1 medium Onion diced
- 2 cloves Garlic freshly minced
- ¼ cup All-purpose flour for thickening
- 2 cups Milk
- 1 cup Chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Salt
For the Cheeses
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese sharp flavor
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese extra creaminess
- ¾ cup Grated Parmesan cheese salty finish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Scrub and clean the Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly, then slice into ⅛-inch rounds.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then add onion and garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in all-purpose flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk and chicken broth, stirring continuously until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheeses until melted and integrated.
- Grease the casserole dish and layer with sliced potatoes and cheese sauce, repeating until all ingredients are used.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 35-45 minutes until golden and fork-tender.
- Cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
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