Cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes are a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. Layers of tender potatoes swim in rich cheese and a hint of garlic. Yum!
These potatoes are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! I love making a big dish to share—everyone always wants seconds. Plus, garlic and cheese just make everything better, don’t you think? 🧄🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are great for scalloped dishes since they become creamy and tender when baked. However, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly buttery taste and golden color.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you want something milder, you can substitute it with medium cheddar or even Gouda for a unique twist.
Milk and Heavy Cream: Whole milk and heavy cream create a rich sauce. If you’re looking for lighter options, try using 2% milk or cashew milk, plus a bit of cornstarch to thicken it.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can work too, but use about 1/4 teaspoon instead of 4 cloves.
How Do You Make a Smooth Cheese Sauce?
Making a smooth cheese sauce can be tricky, but with these steps, you can do it easily. Begin by making a roux, which is just a mix of flour and melted butter.
- Heat the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour and let it cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly without letting it brown.
- Gradually add the milk and cream while whisking to eliminate lumps. Keep stirring until thick and bubbly, then reduce the heat.
- Add the cheddar gradually, stirring until melted for a creamy sauce.
Patience is key here! By stirring constantly and adding the cheese slowly, you’ll avoid any clumps and ensure a silky texture.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 1 hour of baking time. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a comforting side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, take a baking dish or a scalloped potato casserole dish and grease it with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes, then slice them into thin, even rounds—about 1/8-inch thick. It’s easier to slice if you use a sharp knife or a mandoline. Once sliced, set them aside for now.
3. Make the Garlic Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Don’t let it burn!
4. Create the Roux
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Keep stirring regularly to form a roux, which will help thicken your sauce. You’re looking for a slightly bubbly mixture.
5. Add Milk and Cream
Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, making sure to eliminate any lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble gently; that’s when you know it’s ready!
6. Cheese It Up
Now, lower the heat and add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, along with salt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg (if you’re using it). Stir constantly until the cheese melts and your sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Layer It Up
Remove the sauce from heat. Now, it’s time to assemble! Layer half of the potato slices evenly in your greased baking dish, then pour half of that cheesy garlic sauce over the top. Repeat this step with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
8. Top with More Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top for that melty finish. Yum!
9. Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender (you can check with a fork).
10. Garnish and Serve
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh thyme or rosemary on top for garnish before serving. Let the scalloped potatoes rest for about 5 minutes to thicken a bit before diving in!
Enjoy this rich, creamy, and delightful dish as a comforting side that everyone will love!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for added flavor.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the layers of potatoes and cheese sauce a day ahead. Simply cover the dish tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to heat through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!