Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Published: May 8, 2025

by Sofia

An easy and delicious side dish, Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for the holidays or any weeknight dinner! This dish features thinly sliced Yukon potatoes baked in a velvety garlic-infused cheese sauce until bubbling and golden. It’s comforting, flavorful, and sure to impress any crowd.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic and three types of cheese creates a rich, mouthwatering taste that pairs well with any main dish.
Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is easy enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for holiday gatherings.
Versatile Side Dish: Whether it’s a family meal or festive event, these scalloped potatoes are a crowd-pleaser suitable for all occasions.
Creamy Texture: The creamy cheese sauce envelops each potato slice, ensuring every bite is deliciously satisfying.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake right before serving, making your holiday cooking hassle-free.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
Medium saucepan
9 x 13 casserole dish
Aluminum foil
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Mandoline slicer or sharp knife: Ensures even slicing of potatoes for consistent cooking.
Medium saucepan: Perfect for making the creamy cheese sauce without splattering.
Casserole dish: A sturdy dish allows for proper layering of potatoes and sauce while baking.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

2.5–3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced (1/8 inch; no need to peel)

For the Sauce

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

For Cheese

1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot when you’re ready to bake the scalloped potatoes.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Scrub and clean the potatoes thoroughly. Slice them into 1/8-inch rounds using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife. Set aside in a bowl.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt the butter.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté for 1–2 minutes until soft but not browned.
3. Stir in flour to create a roux.
4. Gradually add milk and chicken broth while stirring continuously.
5. Mix in thyme and salt, then bring to a gentle boil until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add Cheese to Sauce

Turn off heat. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until combined (it’s fine if some cheese doesn’t melt fully).

Step 5: Layer the Dish

Lightly grease your 9 x 13 casserole dish. Layer:
1. One-third of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom.
2. One-third of the cheese sauce over those potatoes.
3. Repeat two more times, finishing with remaining cheese sauce on top.

Step 6: Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 35–45 minutes or until top is golden brown and potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set properly.

With these simple steps, you’ll create a delightful dish of Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes that will surely leave everyone asking for seconds!

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes make a fantastic side dish for any meal. Their creamy texture and rich flavor can complement a variety of main courses. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Proteins

Roasted Chicken – The savory flavors of roasted chicken balance well with the cheesy potatoes.
Grilled Steak – A juicy steak with its smoky char pairs perfectly with the creamy scalloped potatoes.
Baked Salmon – The lightness of baked salmon contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese sauce.

Add a Fresh Salad

Caesar Salad – The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the potatoes.
Mixed Greens Salad – A simple salad with vinaigrette can lighten up your plate.

Include Bread Options

Garlic Bread – Enhance the garlic flavors by serving warm, crispy garlic bread alongside.
Dinner Rolls – Soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up leftover cheese sauce.

How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

To achieve the best results with your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes, consider these helpful tips.

Use Yukon Gold Potatoes – These potatoes have a buttery flavor and creamy texture that works best for scalloping.
Slice Evenly – Ensuring uniform slices allows for even cooking and prevents some pieces from being underdone.
Layer Thoroughly – Spread cheese sauce evenly over each potato layer to guarantee every bite is flavorful.
Let Rest Before Serving – Allowing the dish to cool slightly helps the sauce set and makes it easier to serve.
Experiment with Cheese – Try mixing different types of cheese like Gruyère or Fontina for added depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are versatile enough to pair well with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complete your meal.

Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh and vibrant touch.
Honey Glazed Carrots – Sweet carrots provide a delightful contrast to the savory scalloped potatoes.
Braised Green Beans – Tender green beans cooked in garlic and butter enhance your plate’s overall flavor profile.
Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw offers a satisfying texture difference against the creamy potatoes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts add earthy flavors that harmonize beautifully with this dish.
Corn on the Cob – Fresh corn brings sweetness and a fun eating experience alongside cheesy goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using thick potato slices: Thick slices will lead to uneven cooking. Always slice your Yukon gold potatoes to about 1/8 inch for even results.
Skipping the roux step: Not making a roux can result in a watery cheese sauce. Take the time to sauté the flour with butter before adding liquids for a creamy texture.
Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoned dishes can lack flavor. Make sure to add enough salt and consider tasting your sauce before layering it with the potatoes.
Overcrowding the casserole dish: Layering too many potatoes at once can prevent them from cooking evenly. Follow the recommended layering method for best results.
Rushing the cooling time: Serving immediately may cause the sauce to be runny. Allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes after baking to help it set properly.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months, but for best taste, consume within a month.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed throughout.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until hot. Add a splash of milk if needed to revive creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes creamier?

You can add more cheese or increase the milk quantity in your cheese sauce for extra creaminess.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While Yukon golds are preferred, you can use Russets or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

What cheese works best in Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes?

A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives great flavor and creaminess. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses!

Can I prepare Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and refrigerate before baking. Just add an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time if cooking from cold.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are not just a fantastic side dish; they bring comfort and flavor to any meal. This recipe is versatile—feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or different cheeses based on your preference. Give this delightful dish a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!