Description

There's something undeniably delightful about a dish that combines the creamy richness of potatoes with the tantalizing aroma of garlic and the heartiness of cheese. Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes is a timeless favorite that transcends ordinary side dishes, making itself the star of every gathering. This dish is ideal for family dinners, celebrations, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something special.

Originating from European roots, scalloped potatoes have been a comforting staple across many cultures. The recipe marries layers of thinly sliced potatoes with a luscious cheesy sauce, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. The golden, bubbly cheese crust that forms on top is the crowning glory, beckoning you for a taste.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it is relatively easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Whether served alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or enjoyed solo, these scalloped potatoes are bound to evoke smiles and satisfied sighs. As we dive into this recipe, think of it as more than just cooking; it's about creating a cherished memory around the dinner table.

Ingredients

• Gather these essential ingredients to craft your cheesy masterpiece. Feel free to explore substitutions if you like to experiment or adapt it to dietary preferences.
• For the Potato Layer:
• 5 lbs Russet potatoes, sliced ⅛" thick
• 2 cups onions, chopped small
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• For the Cheese Sauce:
• ¼ cup butter (½ stick)
• ¼ cup flour
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 teaspoons pepper
• 2 teaspoons Slap Ya Mama® seasoning (a delightful Cajun spice blend)
• 8 ounces sour cream
• For the Cheese Toppings:
• 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated, divided
• 1 cup pepper jack cheese, grated
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• These ingredients serve as a guideline, but feel free to get creative! Swap out Russet potatoes for Yukon gold or sweet potatoes for a different sweetness. Use your favorite cheese blends—Gruyère, mozzarella, or a zesty blue cheese can make for exciting variations.

Preparation Method

Creating perfect Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes is a straightforward process; just follow along and let your kitchen fill with mouthwatering aromas.

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a 14 x 11½ x 2¼ baking dish and give it a nice coat of non-stick spray to ensure easy cleanup later. Set it aside for now.

Next, you'll want to prepare your potatoes. Start by peeling and thinly slicing the potatoes to about ⅛" thick. This uniform thickness ensures that the potatoes cook evenly and meld beautifully with the cheese sauce. Place the sliced potatoes in a large bowl, keeping them ready for layering.

Now it's time to work on the flavorful cheese sauce. In a large frying pan, melt ¼ cup of butter over low heat. Taking your time here allows the butter to become divine, creamy goodness, rather than burning. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pan. The gentle sautéing will release the beautiful scent of garlic and soft sweetness of onions; let them cook for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender and translucent.

Once the onions and garlic are aromatic, sprinkle ¼ cup of flour evenly over the mixture. This step acts as a thickening agent for your sauce, so stir continuously and let it cook for another couple of minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to look slightly golden and smells nutty.

Next, slowly pour in 1 ½ cups of vegetable broth while stirring. This will help dissolve the flour and create a smooth mixture. Seasons are key in cooking, so add in the salt, pepper, and Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, heightening the flavor profile. Following this, pour in 1 ½ cups of heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce begins to thicken. Look for values of texture that resemble a warm, smooth gravy—just before it reaches a boil.

Once thickened, remove the sauce from the heat and stir in 2 cups of grated cheddar cheese until it melts into a velvety blend. This is where the magic happens! The aroma will be intoxicating, and you might find yourself wanting to sneak a taste. But resist the temptation—there’s much more to create!

Now, it's time to start layering. Begin by placing ⅓ of the sliced potatoes evenly in your prepared baking dish. Over this layer, spread ⅓ of your sour cream, followed by ⅓ of the delectable cheese sauce.

It's time to introduce some more cheese! Sprinkle ⅓ of the Parmesan cheese, followed by ⅓ of the pepper jack cheese, and finish with ⅓ of the remainder of your cheddar. Repeat the layering process two more times, ending with that irresistible cheddar cheese on the top for the best crispy finish.

Once your layers are complete, cover the dish with foil. This will prevent the top from burning while allowing the potatoes to cook through. Carefully place the baking dish in the oven. Time to let the magic happen! Bake it for about 1½ to 2 hours. You'll know the dish is nearly done when the sides start bubbling and the potatoes soften, becoming fork-tender.

In the final 15-20 minutes of baking, carefully remove the foil. This step allows the cheese to turn that perfect golden-brown color that we all love. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be incredible at this point!

Once the timer goes off, remove your scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them rest for about 15 minutes before diving in. This brief wait allows the layers to set for easier serving and the steam to settle, ensuring you don’t burn your mouth on that enticing first bite.

Tips and Conclusion

To make this dish even more versatile, consider adding your favorite vegetables into the mix. Fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even roasted bell peppers can enhance the flavor profile and add nutritional value. This dish also keeps well in the refrigerator. If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of heavy cream to restore moisture.
Preparing Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes is not just about following a recipe; it's about creating a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. The layers of flavors from the buttery sauce, caramelized onions, and melty cheeses create unison that tantalizes your taste buds. With every forkful, you experience creamy, cheesy heaven.

As you savor this delightful dish, consider exploring similar recipes on our site, from creamy mac and cheese to luscious gratins or vegetable casseroles. Share this recipe with loved ones and encourage them to enjoy the joy of cooking! Each recipe holds the promise of creating cherished memories. Happy cooking!