Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Picture perfectly tender slices of russet potatoes layered with a creamy, garlicky sauce that’s peppered with rich cheeses. As they bake, the aroma wafts through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday spread, these scalloped potatoes are sure to steal the show. With their golden, bubbling edges and luscious texture, they are a family dinner favorite and one of the best scalloped potato recipes for comforting side dishes.

• Why This Recipe Is Worth Your Time
• Main Ingredients
• Tools Needed
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
• Serving Ideas and Pairings
• Variations and Swaps for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
• Leftovers and Storage Tips
• Nutrition Notes
• Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Why This Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Is Worth Your Time

This recipe is worth your time for several reasons. First, the flavor balance is extraordinary; the creaminess of the heavy cream melds beautifully with the sharpness of the cheddar and the spiciness of the pepper jack. The garlic adds a fragrant punch that elevates the dish, making it irresistible. Second, the practicality of this recipe is a game-changer. It can be made ahead of time and simply baked when you’re ready to serve, making it perfect for busy weeknights or large gatherings. Lastly, it stands out because, with its layers of cheese and tender potatoes, it’s not just a side dish; it’s a star that can shine at any meal.

Main Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

To bring this delicious dish to life, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 5 lbs Russet potatoes (sliced ⅛” thick): The star of the dish, russet potatoes provide a fluffy texture while holding up well to baking.
• 2 cups onions (chopped small): Onions add sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
• 6 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic brings a savory essence that complements the richness of the cheese.
• ¼ cup butter (½ stick): Butter adds richness and helps to sauté the onions and garlic.
• ¼ cup flour: Flour helps to thicken the cheese sauce, giving it a creamy consistency.
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth: This adds moisture and a base flavor to the sauce.
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream: Heavy cream creates a luxurious, rich sauce that coats the potatoes beautifully.
• 1 tbsp salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 2 tsp pepper: Adds a mild spiciness that balances the creaminess.
• 2 tsp Slap Ya Mama® seasoning: A flavorful blend that gives the dish a delightful kick.
• 8 oz sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess, enriching the layers.
• 3 cups cheddar cheese (grated, divided): Cheddar cheese provides a sharp, tangy flavor that melts beautifully.
• 1 cup pepper jack cheese (grated): This cheese adds a spicy element and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan contributes a nutty flavor and helps with the browning on top.

Tools Needed for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

ToolPurpose / what it helps withBaking dish (14 x 11½ x 2¼)Holds and layers the potatoes and sauce while baking.Large frying panUsed for sautéing the onions and garlic and preparing the cheese sauce.Sharp knifeEssential for slicing the potatoes thinly.Cutting boardProvides a safe surface for slicing vegetables.Measuring cups and spoonsFor accurate measurement of ingredients.WhiskHelps combine the flour and liquids smoothly without lumps.Aluminum foilCovers the baking dish while it bakes to prevent burning.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Follow these simple steps to create your cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes:

1. Preheat your oven to 400° and prepare a 14 x 11½ x 2¼ baking dish by spraying it with non-stick spray. Set it aside for later use.
2. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes to approximately ⅛” thickness, then place them in a large bowl until you’re ready to use them.
3. In a large frying pan, melt the butter over low heat, and then add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for about 4-5 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, stirring and cooking for a couple of minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
5. Gradually pour the vegetable broth into the pan while stirring, then add the salt, pepper, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, and heavy cream. Stir until the mixture thickens, then remove from heat just before it reaches a boil. Add 2 cups of the cheddar cheese and stir until combined.
6. Begin layering ⅓ of the potato slices in the bottom of your baking dish, followed by ⅓ of the sour cream and ⅓ of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
7. Sprinkle on ⅓ of the Parmesan cheese, ⅓ of the pepper jack cheese, and ⅓ of the cheddar cheese.
8. Repeat this layering process two more times, making sure to end with the cheddar cheese on top.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 1½ to 2 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
10. About 15 to 20 minutes before the potatoes finish cooking, remove the foil to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
11. Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it sit for about 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes!

Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

• Ensure your potatoes are sliced evenly to promote uniform cooking.
• Consider using a mandoline slicer for perfectly thin and consistent potato slices.
• Don’t rush the sautéing process; allow the onions and garlic to develop their flavors.
• Add an extra layer of cheese on top for an irresistible cheesy crust.
• Let the dish sit after baking; this helps the sauce thicken and makes serving easier.
• Feel free to use different types of cheese based on your preference.
• Experiment with adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

• Serve with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with roasted vegetables for a colorful side dish.
• Complement with grilled meats or poultry for a hearty meal.
• Offer a tangy dipping sauce, like ranch or garlic aioli, on the side.
• Serve alongside a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water.

Variations and Swaps for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Faster Weeknight Version

For a quicker option, use pre-shredded cheese and skip the sour cream layer. Layer the ingredients as outlined and bake for about 1 hour.

Lighter Version

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, and use low-fat cheese options to reduce calories.

High-Protein Version

Add cooked diced chicken or turkey in the layers for an extra protein boost.

Budget-Friendly Version

Use less expensive cheese varieties or substitute some cheese with more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.

Leftovers and Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350° for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• This dish freezes well; wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.
• To reheat from frozen, bake at 375° for about 1 hour or until warmed thoroughly.

Nutrition Notes

This dish serves about 12 people, offering a comforting balance of calories and nutrients. Each serving typically has around 350-400 calories, with a good mix of carbohydrates from the potatoes, fats from the cream and cheese, and some protein. To adjust for allergies or preferences, consider using gluten-free flour and dairy-free cheese options.

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Delight

This delicious cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes delight is a fantastic dish that's sure to impress. Made with 5 lbs russet potatoes (sliced ⅛" thick), onions (chopped small), and 6 cloves garlic (minced), it combines great flavors and textures for a memorable meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 5 lbs Russet potatoes (sliced ⅛" thick)
• 2 cups onions (chopped small)
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¼ cup butter (½ stick)
• ¼ cup flour
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 tbsp salt
• 2 tsp pepper
• 2 tsp Slap Ya Mama® seasoning
• 8 oz sour cream
• 3 cups cheddar cheese (grated, divided)
• 1 cup pepper jack cheese (grated)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400° and prepare a 14 x 11½ x 2¼ baking dish by spraying it with non-stick spray. Set it aside for later use.
2. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes to approximately ⅛" thickness, then place them in a large bowl until you're ready to use them.
3. In a large frying pan, melt the butter over low heat, and then add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for about 4-5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, stirring and cooking for a couple of minutes.
5. Gradually pour the vegetable broth into the pan while stirring, then add the salt, pepper, seasoning, and heavy cream. Stir until the mixture thickens, then remove from heat just before it reaches a boil. Add 2 cups of the cheddar cheese and stir until combined.
6. Begin layering ⅓ of the potato slices in the bottom of your baking dish, followed by ⅓ of the sour cream and ⅓ of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
7. Sprinkle on ⅓ of the Parmesan cheese, ⅓ of the pepper jack cheese, and ⅓ of the cheddar cheese.
8. Repeat this layering process two more times, making sure to end with the cheddar cheese on top.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 1½ to 2 hours.
10. About 15 to 20 minutes before the potatoes finish cooking, remove the foil to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
11. Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it sit for about 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes!