- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
- Peel and slice the potatoes thinly, about 1/8-inch thick, and set them aside.
2. Make the Garlic Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes, forming a smooth paste.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let it cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1½ cups of cheddar cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and onion powder, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
- Layer the remaining potato slices on top and pour the rest of the cheese sauce, making sure the potatoes are fully covered.
4. Add Cheese Topping
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top. If desired, add a layer of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and a golden crust.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
- Use Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes have a high starch content, which helps create a creamy texture.
- Slice Potatoes Evenly: Try to slice the potatoes as evenly as possible to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Add Extra Garlic for More Flavor: If you’re a garlic lover, you can add an extra clove or two to enhance the flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply prepare and bake, then cover and refrigerate. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until warm.
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes: A Comforting Side for Any Meal
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are the perfect addition to any dinner, bringing creamy, cheesy goodness that pairs beautifully with mains like roast chicken, steak, ham, or even a holiday turkey. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this dish is as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Serve it as a side at your next family gathering or make it for a comforting meal at home—you won’t regret it!
