Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

These Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful side dish that boasts creamy textures and rich flavors. Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks, this recipe shines as a comforting addition to any meal. With layers of tender potatoes and gooey cheese, you’ll want to make this dish again and again. Plus, it’s straightforward to prepare, ensuring everyone can enjoy its deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic and various cheeses creates a taste sensation that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these potatoes with chicken, beef, or lamb dishes for an unbeatable meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With ten servings per batch, this dish is perfect for feeding a large group or enjoying leftovers the next day.
• Simple Preparation: Quick prep time means you can spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food that warms the heart.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes successfully, you’ll need some special tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Baking dish (14 x 11½ x 2¼)
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: Allows even heating for sautéing onions and garlic, ensuring maximum flavor infusion.
• Baking dish: The right size is essential for properly layering the potatoes and cheese sauce without overflow.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 5 lbs Russet potatoes (sliced ⅛ thick)
• 2 cups onions (chopped small)
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Sauce

• 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

For Layering

• 8 oz sour cream
• 3 cups cheddar cheese (grated, divided)
• 1 cup pepper jack cheese (grated)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray your baking dish with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the finished product.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes into approximately ⅛ thick pieces.
2. Place them in a large mixing bowl until you’re ready to assemble.

Step 3: Cook Onions and Garlic

1. In a large frying pan over low heat, melt the butter.
2. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté for about 4-5 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce

1. Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture; stir well and cook for an additional couple of minutes.
2. Gradually pour in vegetable broth while stirring continuously until fully combined.
3. Add salt, pepper, seasoning, and heavy cream. Stir until the sauce thickens just before boiling.
4. Remove from heat and mix in 2 cups of grated cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 5: Layering Potatoes and Sauce

1. In the prepared baking dish, layer one-third of the potato slices evenly at the bottom.
2. Spread one-third of the sour cream over this layer followed by one-third of the cheese sauce.
3. Top with one-third each of Parmesan, pepper jack cheese, and cheddar cheese.
4. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of cheddar cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake

Cover your baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1½ – 2 hours or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 7: Final Touches

About 15-20 minutes before serving, remove the foil to allow the top layer of cheese to brown slightly.

Step 8: Serve

Once baked, remove from oven and let it sit for about 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together beautifully! Enjoy your cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes!

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these potatoes will be a hit!

Pair with Meat Dishes

• Roast Chicken – The creamy texture complements the savory flavors of roasted chicken.
• Grilled Steak – The richness of the scalloped potatoes balances the robust taste of grilled steak.
• Baked Turkey – A great choice for holiday meals, these potatoes add comfort to baked turkey.

Serve with Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad – The crispness of romaine and tangy dressing pairs perfectly with cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes.
• Mixed Greens – A light salad with vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the dish.

Include as Part of a Buffet

• Potato Bar – Set up a potato bar where guests can customize their serving with toppings like chives, extra cheese, or hot sauce.
• Holiday Spread – These potatoes make an excellent addition to any holiday buffet table.

How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

To achieve the best results for your cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes, follow these simple tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and quality cheeses will elevate the overall flavor of your dish.
• Slice Potatoes Evenly – Ensure potato slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking and texture.
• Let it Rest Before Serving – Allowing the dish to sit for about 15 minutes after baking helps set the layers and enhances flavor.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try different cheese combinations like gouda or mozzarella for unique flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes can shine alongside various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables – A colorful mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus adds freshness.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious contrast to the rich potatoes.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These crispy sprouts add texture and flavor that complements the creamy dish.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the heaviness of scalloped potatoes.
5. Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread on the side for extra indulgence!
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn is an easy-to-make side that brings sweetness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make a few missteps when preparing Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not slicing potatoes evenly: Uneven slices can lead to inconsistent cooking. Use a sharp knife or mandoline to ensure each slice is approximately ⅛ thick.
• Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the potatoes immediately after baking can cause them to fall apart. Allow the dish to rest for about 15 minutes before serving.
• Overcooking the cheese sauce: Cooking the sauce too long can result in a grainy texture. Remove it from heat just before it reaches a boil for a smooth finish.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season each layer of potatoes can make the dish bland. Be sure to add salt and pepper at every step for full flavor.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold cream or broth can affect how well the sauce thickens. Warm your liquid ingredients slightly before combining them with the other components.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• It’s best to freeze without the final cheese layer for optimal texture upon reheating.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: On low heat, warm in a skillet with a splash of vegetable broth, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some commonly asked questions.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! You can mix and match cheeses like mozzarella or gouda to create your perfect cheesy blend.

How do I fix runny scalloped potatoes?

To thicken runny scalloped potatoes, return them to the stove and cook on low heat until they reduce. Adding more flour or cornstarch can also help.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it up to a day in advance. Just cover tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes?

These potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are not only creamy and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables or trying different cheeses based on your preferences. It’s a perfect side dish that will impress family and friends alike!