Description
This recipe for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes takes a classic comfort food to a new level with the addition of rich, melted cheese and aromatic garlic. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a creamy sauce made from butter, garlic, cream, and a blend of cheeses, then baked to golden perfection. The result is a decadent, cheesy, and flavorful dish that can be served as a side for special occasions or even as a stand-alone meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or any time you crave something rich and comforting.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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 Tbs 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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400° and spray a 14 x 11½ x 2¼ baking dish with non-stick spray. Set aside.
- Peel and thinly slice potatoes, approximately ⅛” thick. Place in a large bowl until ready to use.
- In a large frying pan, melt butter over low flame then add onions and garlic. Saute for about 4-5 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over onion mixture, stir and cook for a couple minutes.
- Gently pour vegetable broth into pan and stir, add salt and pepper, seasoning and heavy cream. Stir until thickened, remove from heat just prior to boiling and then add 2 cups of cheddar cheese. Stir.
- Layer ⅓ of the potato slices in baking dish then add ⅓ of the sour cream and ⅓ of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Top with ⅓ of the Parmesan, ⅓ pepper jack cheese and ⅓ of cheddar cheese.
- Repeat layering 2 more times ending with cheddar cheese.
- Cover with foil and place in oven. Cook for 1½ – 2 hours.
- About 15 – 20 minutes prior to potatoes being done, remove foil to brown the cheese a bit.
- Remove from oven, let sit for about 15 minutes, then enjoy.
Notes
- Best Potatoes to Use:
Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold work best for this dish, as they create a creamy texture. If you prefer a firmer potato texture, Yukon Gold is the top choice due to its buttery flavor and ability to hold its shape. - Cheese Selection:
Sharp cheddar is a great base cheese for flavor, but don’t be afraid to mix in Gruyère for a nuttier taste or mozzarella for added creaminess. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan or Monterey Jack for a twist. - Garlic Options:
Fresh garlic gives the dish a more pronounced flavor, but garlic powder can be used if you’re in a pinch. If using fresh garlic, make sure to mince it finely so it distributes evenly throughout the dish. - Cream vs. Milk:
Heavy cream is recommended for the richest texture, but you can use whole milk or a combination of cream and milk if you prefer a lighter version. - Make-Ahead Tip:
You can assemble this dish up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. This is especially helpful if you’re planning a large meal and want to save time on the day of the event. - Parboiling Potatoes:
If you’re short on time, you can parboil the potato slices for 5–10 minutes before assembling the dish. This will speed up the baking process, but make sure to cool the potatoes slightly before layering them. - Crispy Topping:
For an extra crispy top, finish the dish by broiling it for the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning the cheese. - Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a heartier, savory twist.
- Include sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or onions for more depth of flavor.
- Try different herbs like rosemary or parsley for a fresh, aromatic touch.