Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes: Prepare to be transported to a realm of creamy, comforting, and utterly irresistible flavors! This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a culinary experience that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). I’m so excited to share this recipe with you.

Scalloped potatoes, in their simplest form, have graced tables for centuries, evolving from humble peasant fare to a beloved classic. The addition of cheese and garlic elevates this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. While the exact origins are debated, similar potato gratins have been enjoyed across Europe for generations, each region adding its own unique twist. This version, with its generous helping of cheese and fragrant garlic, is a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined with love and care.

What makes cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes so universally adored? It’s the perfect marriage of textures – the tender, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes, the rich and creamy sauce, and the golden, bubbly cheese topping. The garlic adds a savory depth that complements the sweetness of the potatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Serve it as a show-stopping side for a holiday feast, a comforting weeknight dinner, or even as a decadent brunch treat. Get ready to experience potato perfection!

Ingredients:

• 5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Potatoes and Cheese Sauce:

1. Prepare the Potatoes and Onions: Start by peeling your Yukon Gold potatoes. I find that Yukon Golds work best because they hold their shape well during baking and have a naturally creamy texture. Thinly slice the potatoes to about 1/8 inch thickness. A mandoline slicer can be a lifesaver here, ensuring uniform slices that cook evenly. If you don’t have a mandoline, just take your time and aim for consistent slices with a sharp knife. Also, thinly slice the large yellow onion. The onion adds a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
2. Mince the Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves finely. Freshly minced garlic is crucial for that intense garlic flavor that complements the cheesy potatoes so well.
3. Make the Roux: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour. This creates a roux, which is the base for our creamy cheese sauce. Cook the roux, whisking constantly, for about 2-3 minutes. This step is important because it cooks out the raw flour taste. The roux should be smooth and slightly golden.
4. Create the Béchamel: Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring that each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This prevents lumps from forming. Once all the milk is added, whisk in the heavy cream. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
5. Season the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan and scorching.
6. Add Spices and Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using). The nutmeg adds a warm, subtle spice, while the cayenne provides a gentle kick. Now, it’s time for the cheese! Add 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and 3/4 cup of the shredded Gruyere cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and cheesy. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of garlic powder to enhance the flavor.

Assembling and Baking the Scalloped Potatoes:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the potatoes cook through evenly without burning the top.
2. Grease the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This prevents the potatoes from sticking to the dish and makes cleanup easier.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Begin layering the potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce in the prepared baking dish. Start with a layer of potato slices, overlapping them slightly. Then, sprinkle a layer of sliced onions over the potatoes. Pour about one-third of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and onions, ensuring that everything is well coated. Repeat the layers: potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce. You should have about three layers of each.
4. Top with Cheese: For the final layer, pour the remaining cheese sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of Gruyere cheese evenly over the top. This creates a beautiful, golden-brown crust as the potatoes bake.
5. Bake the Potatoes: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps to trap the steam and ensures that the potatoes cook through evenly. Bake for 1 hour.
6. Remove Foil and Bake Again: After 1 hour, remove the foil and continue baking for another 30-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. To check for doneness, insert a fork into the center of the potatoes. If the fork slides in easily, the potatoes are ready. If not, continue baking for a few more minutes.
7. Let it Rest: Once the potatoes are done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to set slightly and makes it easier to slice and serve the potatoes.
8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. The parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes and cheese.

Tips and Variations:

• Type of Potatoes: While Yukon Gold potatoes are my preferred choice, you can also use Russet potatoes. However, Russets tend to be a bit drier, so you might need to add a little more cream to the sauce.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Fontina, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked Gouda would be delicious additions.
• Adding Ham or Bacon: For a heartier dish, add diced ham or cooked bacon to the layers. This adds a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the potatoes and cheese.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ham or bacon.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the scalloped potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to add about 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
• Garlic Lovers: If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two of minced garlic to the sauce.
• Spice it Up: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the cayenne pepper.
• Preventing Browning: If you notice the top of the potatoes browning too quickly, you can tent the baking dish with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions:

Perfect Pairings:

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are a fantastic side dish for a variety of main courses. They pair exceptionally well with:

• Roasted chicken or turkey
• Grilled steak or pork chops
• Baked ham
• Vegetarian options like lentil loaf or stuffed bell peppers

Serving Size:

This recipe makes approximately 10-12 servings, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday dinners.

Storage:

Leftover scalloped potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in individual portions.

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes recipe isn’t just another side dish; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, a comforting hug on a plate, and a surefire way to elevate any meal. From the creamy, cheesy sauce infused with the perfect amount of garlic to the tender, perfectly cooked potato slices, every bite is an explosion of flavor and texture. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it’s surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers restaurant-quality results. Forget those bland, boring potato dishes of the past; this recipe will redefine your perception of scalloped potatoes forever!

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While it’s fantastic as is, there are so many ways to customize it to your liking. For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked ham, bacon, or even shredded chicken between the layers of potatoes. If you’re a cheese lover (like me!), feel free to experiment with different cheese blends. Gruyere, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar would add a unique and delicious twist. For a vegetarian option, try incorporating sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions into the layers. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before baking will also enhance the aroma and flavor.

Serving suggestions are endless! This Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes recipe is the perfect accompaniment to roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham. It’s also a fantastic addition to any holiday feast, from Thanksgiving to Christmas. For a casual weeknight dinner, serve it alongside a simple salad and some crusty bread. And if you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely!), they’re just as delicious reheated the next day. You can even repurpose them into potato pancakes or add them to a breakfast casserole.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. The combination of creamy cheese, fragrant garlic, and tender potatoes is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, perfect for any occasion.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the best scalloped potatoes you’ve ever tasted! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover the magic of Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes.

And now, the most important part: I want to hear from you! Once you’ve made this recipe, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to improve and create even more delicious recipes for you. Don’t be shy – let me know what you think! I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary adventures with this cheesy, garlicky delight. Happy cooking!

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