Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes have a way of making any meal feel like a special occasion. I remember the first time I tried making them myself – the aroma of garlic and butter filling my kitchen was absolutely intoxicating! It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting hug on a plate. This garlic cheese potato bake is my go-to for family dinners and holidays because it’s so reliably delicious and surprisingly simple. If you’re looking for an easy cheesy garlic potato recipe that’s guaranteed to impress, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
- Incredible, rich flavor that’s perfectly savory and cheesy.
- The ultimate comfort food, making any meal feel special.
- Surprisingly quick prep time, perfect for busy weeknights.
- A budget-friendly way to elevate your side dish game.
- Guaranteed to be a family favorite that even picky eaters adore.
- This creamy garlic scalloped potatoes recipe is incredibly versatile.
- It’s a fantastic way to enjoy potatoes with a delightful cheesy garlic flavor.
- You’ll love serving these creamy garlic scalloped potatoes alongside your favorite mains.
Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating that amazing cheesy scalloped potatoes garlic flavor everyone loves. You’ll need 2.5–3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, which I like to slice thinly – about 1/8 inch – no need to peel them, which saves so much time! For the creamy sauce, start with 1/4 cup butter, 1 medium onion, diced, and a generous 8–10 cloves garlic, minced for that punchy garlic note. Then, whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour to thicken. Gradually pour in 2 cups milk and 1 cup chicken broth, adding 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme and 1 teaspoon salt. Finally, the magic happens with 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded, and 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated – these cheeses create that irresistible melt and depth.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9 x 13 casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Step 2: Scrub the Yukon gold potatoes thoroughly. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, carefully slice them into uniform 1/8-inch rounds. Don’t worry about peeling them; the skins add a nice texture. Set the sliced potatoes aside.
- Step 3: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatics for about 1–2 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly softened. The smell is already amazing!
- Step 4: Sprinkle in the 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and stir well to create a roux with the butter and aromatics. Cook for about a minute, stirring constantly.
- Step 5: Gradually whisk in the 2 cups milk and 1 cup chicken broth. Continue stirring to ensure a smooth sauce. Stir in the 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme and 1 teaspoon salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes. This is the base for our simple cheesy garlic potato bake.
- Step 6: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the shredded 1 cup cheddar cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, and grated 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Stir until all the cheeses are melted and the sauce is luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- Step 7: Begin layering your simple cheesy garlic potato bake. Place one-third of the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Spoon one-third of the luscious cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat these layers two more times, ensuring the top layer of potatoes is completely covered with the remaining sauce.
- Step 8: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Step 9: Carefully remove the aluminum foil. Continue baking uncovered for an additional 35–45 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is beautifully golden brown and bubbling. The aroma of this cheesy garlic potato casserole recipe will fill your home!
- Step 10: Let the Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make these potatoes absolutely perfect. Follow these tips for guaranteed success:
- Uniformity is key! Slice your potatoes evenly, about 1/8-inch thick, so they cook at the same rate. A mandoline is your best friend here.
- Don’t skimp on the garlic! Freshly minced garlic provides a much richer flavor than pre-minced varieties.
- Resting time is crucial. Letting the dish sit for 10 minutes after baking allows the sauce to thicken and set, making it easier to serve without it being too runny.
- Experiment with cheese blends. While cheddar and mozzarella are classic, adding Gruyère or a sharp white cheddar can elevate the flavor profile.
What’s the secret to perfect cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes?
The secret lies in the sauce and the potato slice thickness. A well-made béchamel base infused with plenty of garlic, combined with evenly sliced potatoes that cook perfectly, ensures a creamy, tender, and flavorful result. Think of it like a gourmet garlic butter scalloped potatoes recipe – balanced flavors are everything. For more on creating perfect sauces, check out this guide on making a béchamel sauce.
Can I make cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! Prepare the entire dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
How do I avoid common mistakes with cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes?
The biggest pitfall is unevenly sliced potatoes, leading to some being undercooked and others mushy. Also, avoid over-baking once uncovered, as this can dry out the potatoes and sauce. Ensure your sauce is properly thickened before layering.
Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
This decadent side dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of main courses. It’s the perfect cheesy garlic scalloped potato side dish for holiday feasts or a simple weeknight dinner. Try serving it alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a classic comforting meal. It also makes a fantastic accompaniment to grilled steak or pork chops, adding a creamy, savory element to the plate. For a vegetarian option, pair it with a hearty lentil loaf or grilled portobello mushrooms.
Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving for this delicious cheesy garlic potato casserole recipe. Keep in mind these are estimates and can vary slightly based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Once your delicious cheesy garlic potato casserole recipe is baked and has cooled slightly, proper storage is key to enjoying it later. Let the dish cool on the counter for about 20-30 minutes before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to airtight containers. This cheesy garlic potato bake will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of this cheesy garlic scalloped potato side dish for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, the best method is to gently warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, though the texture might be slightly softer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Can I use different types of potatoes for this cheesy garlic potato bake?
While Yukon Golds are my favorite because they hold their shape and have a creamy texture, you can certainly use Russets. Just be aware that Russets can sometimes become a bit softer. The key is to slice them thinly and evenly for the best results, no matter what potato you choose.
What makes the sauce so creamy in this garlic cheese potato bake?
The creaminess comes from a combination of ingredients: the dairy (milk), the flour creating a roux with butter, and of course, all that melted cheese! It’s a classic technique that ensures a rich, luscious sauce perfect for coating every potato slice. This method is also a staple in many garlic and cheese potato gratin recipes.
My cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes didn’t thicken properly. What went wrong?
This usually happens if the flour wasn’t cooked long enough to create a proper roux, or if the liquid was added too quickly. Make sure you cook the flour in the butter for at least a minute before gradually whisking in the liquids. If the sauce is still too thin after simmering, you can try making a quick slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch and a bit of cold water, then whisking it into the simmering sauce until thickened. This is a good trick for any cheesy garlic potato casserole recipe.
How do I ensure the potatoes are cooked through when learning how to bake cheesy garlic potatoes?
The most important factor is slicing them uniformly thin, about 1/8 inch. This allows them to cook evenly in the sauce. Baking covered for the initial 30 minutes steams them, ensuring tenderness, and then uncovering them allows the top to brown and the sauce to reduce slightly. A fork should easily pierce the potato slices when they’re done.
Variations of Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes You Can Try
While this classic cheesy garlic potato bake is fantastic on its own, there are so many ways to customize it! For a lighter version, try using half-and-half or a dairy-free milk alternative, though the sauce might be slightly less rich. You can also experiment with different cheeses; Gruyère, smoked Gouda, or a sharp Provolone add wonderful depth, transforming it into a more complex garlic and cheese potato gratin. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce. If you’re short on time, you can even use pre-sliced potatoes from the grocery store, though slicing them yourself ensures the best texture for this simple cheesy garlic potato bake.
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Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes: 2 delicious secrets
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are a comforting and flavorful side dish featuring thinly sliced Yukon potatoes baked in a creamy, garlic-infused cheese sauce until golden and bubbling. Perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners, this dish is simple to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Scrub the potatoes thoroughly and slice them into 1/8-inch rounds using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1–2 minutes until soft.
- Stir in the flour to form a roux. Gradually add the milk and chicken broth while stirring continuously. Add thyme and salt. Bring to a gentle boil and cook until slightly thickened.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until well combined.
- Lightly grease a 9 x 13 casserole dish. Layer one-third of the sliced potatoes evenly in the dish. Follow with one-third of the prepared cheese sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with cheese sauce on top.
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another 35–45 minutes, or until golden brown on top and fork-tender.
- Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For best results, ensure potato slices are uniform (1/8 inch) for even cooking.
- Using fresh garlic and herbs will significantly amplify the flavor.
- Allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes after baking so the sauce can set properly.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations for unique flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Sides
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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