As the aroma of buttery, golden potatoes fills the kitchen, I'm reminded of the comfort and warmth that a good meal brings. Today, I'm excited to share my recipe for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes, a dish that has quickly become a family favorite. With its layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, this recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also an impressive way to elevate any gathering. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—it’s quick to whip up, and its delightful flavors make it a sure crowd-pleaser. Picture the scene: a comforting casserole bubbling away in the oven, its cheesy top golden and inviting. Ready to discover how to create this scrumptious classic that will leave everyone asking for seconds? Let’s get started!

Why are Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes irresistible?

Comforting, Homestyle Appeal: These Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any dinner table.

Layered Flavor Explosion: With creamy cheese sauce blanketing tender Yukon Golds, each bite bursts with delicious harmony.

Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal effort and time, making it perfect for busy home cooks or those relaxing on the weekend.

Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe feeds a crowd, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied and happy.

Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with just about anything—steak, chicken, or a simple salad, and watch it steal the show!

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients

For the Potatoes
• Yukon Gold potatoes – these golden gems are creamy and hold their shape beautifully.
• Butter – adds richness and depth to the sauce, bringing all flavors together.
• Diced onion – imparts a sweet aroma and depth to the cheesy sauce.
• Minced garlic – brings a fragrant punch that elevates the overall flavor.

For the Sauce
• All-purpose flour – helps thicken the cheese sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Milk – creates a creamy base and balances the richness of the cheese.
• Chicken broth – enhances the flavor and adds savoriness to the sauce.
• Fresh thyme – this herb adds a delightful earthiness to the layers.
• Salt – elevates all the flavors and ties the dish together.

For the Cheesy Goodness
• Shredded cheddar cheese – this cheese provides a sharp flavor that melds beautifully with the other cheeses.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – contributes stretchiness and a creamy texture.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – gives a nutty finish while adding a lovely golden crust on top.

Now that you have all the essential components for these irresistible Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes, you're one step closer to creating a dish that will delight your family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes will bake evenly and develop that lovely golden crust. While the oven heats up, gather your other ingredients and prepare your equipment, including a medium saucepan and a 9 x 13 casserole dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Scrub and clean 2.5 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly, then slice them into ⅛-inch rounds with a sharp knife for even cooking. As you slice, keep an eye out for blemishes and remove any imperfections. Place the potato slices in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Onion and Garlic
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of butter. Add 1 cup of diced onion and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the cheesy sauce that will envelop the potatoes.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
Stir in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, allowing it to cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw taste. Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 4–5 minutes. You’ll want to see a smooth consistency that clings beautifully to your sliced potatoes.

Step 5: Combine the Cheeses
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 cup each of shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and ¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and homogeneous. This cheesy blend will envelop the potatoes, creating the ultimate comfort food experience.

Step 6: Layer the Ingredients
Lightly grease the bottom of your 9 x 13 casserole dish with cooking spray or butter. Layer one-third of the sliced potatoes in the dish, topping them with one-third of the cheesy sauce. Repeat this process two more times until all potatoes and sauce are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese sauce on top for that perfect golden finish.

Step 7: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, allowing the potatoes to start tenderizing while the flavors meld together beautifully. The foil helps to create steam, ensuring the potatoes cook evenly.

Step 8: Bake Uncovered
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil, allowing the top to become golden and crispy. Continue baking for an additional 35–45 minutes, or until the top is beautifully browned and the potatoes are fork-tender. Keep an eye on it to achieve that perfect bubbly finish on your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are blissfully baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes before serving. This waiting period will allow the layers to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy all that cheesy goodness!

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the Yukon Gold potatoes and layer them in the casserole dish up to 24 hours in advance, then simply cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time (up to 3 days in advance), storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, just reheat the cheese sauce gently on the stove before layering it with the potatoes and baking as instructed. This method ensures your dish remains just as delicious and helps you save time while delighting your family with comforting goodness!

What to Serve with Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

As you gather around the table, the warmth and cheesy goodness of this dish will inspire you to create the perfect meal.

Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors of grilled chicken contrast beautifully with the creamy potatoes, adding a delightful protein element to your feast.
Roasted Vegetables: Serving crispy roasted vegetables adds a fresh and colorful crunch that complements the richness of the scalloped potatoes wonderfully. Think of vibrant carrots, Brussels sprouts, or crispy green beans.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with its tangy dressing and crunchy croutons balances the richness of the potatoes, creating an inviting plate that begs to be savored.
Tender Steak: A juicy, seared steak brings hearty flavor to the table, and the combination of flavors offers a satisfying bite that pairs excellently with the creamy comfort of the potatoes.
Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread for a delightful side that echoes the bold garlic notes in the scalloped potatoes, making every bite a celebration of flavor.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay beautifully complements the gooey, cheesy layers, enhancing your dining experience with its fruity undertones.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a velvety chocolate mousse rounds off the meal perfectly, providing a sweet finale that beautifully contrasts with the savory scalloped dish.
Apple Pie: Enjoying a slice of warm apple pie would add a comforting, nostalgic conclusion to your meal—a sweet finish to a cheese-infused adventure.

Storage Tips for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture.

Freezer: To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Frozen Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes can last up to 2-3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish out for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illnesses. Always refrigerate promptly after serving.

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delicious scalloped potatoes to suit your taste!

Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cheese blend for a creamy texture.
For a nutty twist, you can also try adding nutritional yeast to enhance cheesiness while keeping it dairy-free.
Vegan: Use plant-based butter and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Opt for vegan cheeses for a completely plant-friendly option.
These changes ensure everyone can enjoy this luscious dish without compromising on flavor!
Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce before layering.
This added heat will awaken your taste buds and elevate the cozy comfort of the dish.
Herbed Delight: Enhance flavor by mixing fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley into the cheese sauce for a fragrant twist.
These herbs bring a vibrant taste to the potatoes that's refreshing and delightful.
Loaded Variations: Sprinkle cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms in between layers for a loaded version.
Adding these savory elements gives a wonderful heartiness that makes for an epic side dish.
Cheese Lovers: Combine different varieties like Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a richer flavor profile.
This blend can take your cheesy experience to new heights, making every bite enticing.
Make It a Meal: Add cooked shredded chicken or sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to create a full meal.
This transforms your comfort side into a wholesome main dish the whole family will love!
Nutty Crunch: Top with crushed, toasted nuts or breadcrumbs before the final bake for added texture.
This crunchy topping will provide a delightful contrast to the creamy goodness of the potatoes.

Expert Tips for Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Use Fresh Potatoes: Choose firm, fresh Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture. Avoid any that feel soft or have blemishes to prevent mushiness.
Layer Wisely: To maximize flavor, ensure that each layer of potatoes is evenly coated with cheese sauce. This helps every bite be just as delicious as the last.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time. Ovens vary, so check for that golden brown color and fork tenderness to avoid overcooking.
Let it Rest: Allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve your Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes perfectly.
Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your tastes. Adding Gruyère or even a hint of blue cheese can take your dish to the next level!

Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for firm, fresh Yukon Gold potatoes. They have a creamy texture that holds up beautifully in the layers. Avoid potatoes with dark spots or softness, as they can result in a mushy final dish.

What’s the best way to store leftover Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor and texture, make sure they are well-sealed in order to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes?
Of course! To freeze, let the dish cool completely. First, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, then wrap it with foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What if my cheese sauce doesn’t thicken?
If your cheese sauce doesn’t thicken, don’t worry—it happens to the best of us! You can let the sauce simmer on low heat a bit longer while continuously stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. If it still seems too thin, mix a tablespoon of flour with a little cold milk to make a slurry, then gradually stir it into the sauce, allowing it to thicken further as it warms.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
While this Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a delightful treat, it does contain common allergens like dairy. For those who are lactose intolerant, consider using lactose-free milk and cheese alternatives to enjoy this creamy dish without worry. Always check labels if you're accommodating specific allergies for yourself or your guests!