Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Description of this recipe
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are a rich and creamy dish that combines the comforting flavors of garlic, cheese, and perfectly tender potatoes. This indulgent side dish is baked to perfection, creating a golden, bubbly top that is sure to impress at any gathering.
Why you will love this recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that elevates any meal. The combination of cheddar cheese and garlic creates a savory depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with meats, salads, or can even stand alone as a comforting dish. Plus, it’s relatively simple to prepare, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the allure of Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes. This dish brings together the earthiness of potatoes, the richness of cream, and the sharpness of cheddar cheese, creating a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or simply wanting to treat yourself to something special, these scalloped potatoes are sure to be a hit. With their creamy texture and deliciously cheesy topping, they are the ultimate side dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the potatoes from sticking.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your dish.
Step 3: Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine. Heat the mixture gently until it’s warmed through but not boiling. This will ensure that the cream sauce melds beautifully with the potatoes during baking.
Step 4: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Pour half of the creamy garlic mixture over the potatoes, spreading it out gently. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes and the rest of the cream mixture.
Step 5: Top the final layer of potatoes with the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
COOKING Rating:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
This dish is not only easy to make but also delivers on flavor and comfort, making it a perfect choice for all occasions.
Serving Suggestions:
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish for a complete meal. They also make a great addition to holiday spreads and potlucks. For a lighter option, pair them with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the potatoes.
Tips:
- For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding some freshly chopped herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the cream mixture.
- If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to experiment with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
- To save time, you can use a mandoline slicer to quickly and evenly slice the potatoes.
- Make sure to slice the potatoes as thinly as possible to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes are the perfect side dish to elevate any meal. Their creamy texture and rich flavors make them irresistible, and they are sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe allows you to create a delicious dish that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or enjoying them on a cozy night in, these scalloped potatoes are bound to delight.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I make Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Assemble the layers and cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. - What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes due to their starchy texture, which helps create a creamy consistency when baked. - Can I use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream?
While you can substitute low-fat milk, the dish may not be as rich and creamy. For the best results, use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. - Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Sliced onions, bell peppers, or even spinach can be added between the layers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you add vegetables that require longer cooking.
Cheesy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the potatoes from sticking.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your dish.
- Step 3: Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine. Heat the mixture gently until it’s warmed through but not boiling. This will ensure that the cream sauce melds beautifully with the potatoes during baking.
- Step 4: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Pour half of the creamy garlic mixture over the potatoes, spreading it out gently. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes and the rest of the cream mixture.
- Step 5: Top the final layer of potatoes with the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
