These Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are the epitome of comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with rich garlic flavor. Baked to golden perfection, the layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes and the savory garlic sauce will make this side dish the star of your meal. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or enjoying a cozy dinner, these scalloped potatoes are sure to impress!

Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a creamy, cheesy dream come true! The garlic sauce is rich and flavorful, perfectly complementing the buttery, soft layers of Yukon Gold potatoes. With Gruyère and Parmesan cheese melted on top, you’ll experience a delightful crunch and a beautiful golden color. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it the perfect side dish for any meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare Potatoes and Aromatics:
Peel and thinly slice the Yukon Gold potatoes to 1/8 inch thickness. Place them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning and remove excess starch. Mince the garlic and thinly slice the yellow onion. Set everything aside.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes to form a roux. The roux should be light golden with a nutty aroma.
Gradually pour in the milk, about ½ cup at a time, whisking continuously to incorporate it into the roux. Make sure each addition of milk is fully incorporated before adding more.
Once all the milk is added, stir in the heavy cream and minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes). The sauce should coat the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil.
Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Layer a thin layer of potato slices on the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping to create a solid base.
Sprinkle some of the sliced onion over the potato layer, then pour a generous amount of the creamy garlic sauce over the potatoes and onions.
Repeat the layers of potatoes, onions, and sauce until all ingredients are used. The top layer should have a generous coating of the creamy garlic sauce.
Gently press down on the layers with a spatula or your hand to ensure that the potatoes are submerged in the sauce.
Bake the Scalloped Potatoes:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes.
Bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
To check for doneness, insert a fork or knife into the center of the dish. The potatoes should be tender and easily pierced. If they’re still firm, continue baking for a few more minutes.
Rest and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 8-10 servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 90 minutes

Variations

Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses such as provolone, fontina, or Gruyère to alter the flavor. You can also add a bit of ricotta for extra creaminess.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce for a spicy twist.
Vegetable Add-ins: Stir in cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or leeks to add more depth and flavor.
Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage for added fragrance and flavor in the sauce.
Meat Lovers: Add cooked bacon or sausage for a meaty version of this classic dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, though the crust won’t be as crispy.

Health Benefits

While scalloped potatoes are traditionally a comfort food, this version is packed with nutrients from the Yukon Gold potatoes, which are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. The creamy sauce provides a good source of calcium, and the fresh garlic adds a boost of immune-boosting compounds. You can also make this dish lighter by adjusting the amount of cheese or using lower-fat dairy products.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred for their creamy texture and flavor, but you can substitute with Russet potatoes if needed. Keep in mind that Russets may break down a bit more and create a creamier texture.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. Can I use a mandoline to slice the potatoes?

Yes, using a mandoline slicer will help ensure even slices and make the prep work quicker and easier.

4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch in the roux.

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and dairy-free butter to make the sauce, and swap the cheese for vegan cheese.

6. How do I prevent the potatoes from being too firm?

Make sure to bake the potatoes long enough for them to soften and cook fully. If they are still firm, continue baking them for a few more minutes and check for tenderness.

7. Can I add meat to the dish?

Yes, you can add cooked bacon, sausage, or even ground beef to the layers for a heartier dish.

8. How do I make the sauce creamier?

You can make the sauce even creamier by adding more heavy cream or a bit of mascarpone cheese to the mixture.

9. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

10. How can I make the topping extra crispy?

To make the topping extra crispy, sprinkle some extra breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese on top before baking and broil for the last few minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

These Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Whether as a side dish for a family dinner or as part of a special meal, this dish will surely become a favorite. With layers of tender potatoes, a creamy garlic sauce, and a crispy cheesy topping, it’s the perfect addition to any occasion. Enjoy!