I absolutely adore how a simple dish can bring so much joy to the dinner table. Imagine tender, thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a rich, creamy garlic sauce, baked to golden perfection with crispy edges. This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked is your ticket to a fuss-free, incredibly satisfying dish that tastes like a labor of love. It’s perfect for busy families, holiday tables, or anyone looking for a hearty, comforting meal component. My kids always ask for seconds, especially when it’s a cold weeknight.
What You’ll Need for Scalloped Potatoes (Ingredients & Why They Matter)
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect, comforting Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked experience. Here’s what makes this dish so special:
- Potatoes: 3 lbs (about 1.4 kg) Russets or Yukon Golds, peeled and thinly sliced – These starches hold their shape well and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Heavy Cream: 1.5 cups (360ml) full-fat – Essential for ultimate richness and a luxurious texture. (Or use half-and-half for a slightly lighter touch, I’ve done it many times!)
- Milk: 1 cup (240ml) whole milk – Balances the richness of the cream and helps create the perfect sauce consistency. (2% milk also works if that’s what’s in the fridge).
- Garlic: 3 cloves, freshly minced – Essential for that aromatic, savory depth in our creamy garlic scalloped potatoes.
- Butter: 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted – Forms the base of our roux and adds a touch of savory flavor.
- Flour: 2 tbsp (16g) all-purpose – Thickens the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup (120ml) low-sodium (or vegetable broth) – Adds another layer of savory flavor without being too salty.
- Cheese (Optional but Recommended): 1 cup (113g) Gruyere or sharp cheddar, freshly grated – For extra richness and a gorgeous golden crust.
- Salt & Black Pepper: 1 tsp fine sea salt, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper – Seasoning is key to bring out all the delicious flavors.
Culinary Extras for Flavor or Nutrition: These small additions can elevate your dish:
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs – Tuck them into the layers for an herbaceous note.
- A pinch of nutmeg – Enhances the creaminess and warmth of the sauce.
- A dash of smoked paprika – For a subtle smoky warmth that pairs wonderfully with potatoes.
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley – For garnish and a burst of fresh flavor just before serving.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Baked Scalloped Potatoes Step by Step
Mastering this Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked will become a cornerstone of your family dinners. Follow these steps for perfectly tender potatoes and a luscious sauce every time.
Prep Your Potatoes:
Thinly slice about 3 lbs (1.4 kg) of peeled potatoes, aiming for a consistent 1/8-inch (3mm) thickness using a mandoline or a very sharp knife. Even slices ensure uniform tenderness. After slicing, rinse them well in cold water to remove excess starch, then pat them very dry with a clean kitchen towel. If you skip the drying, your sauce might become watery, so make sure they’re thoroughly dry. This step takes about 10-15 minutes.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp (28g) butter over medium heat until shimmering. Add 3 cloves of minced fresh garlic and sauté for 1 minute until wonderfully fragrant. Whisk in 2 tbsp (16g) flour and cook for another minute, creating a light roux. Slowly whisk in 1.5 cups (360ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (240ml) milk, and 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until it visibly thickens to coat the back of a spoon, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Season generously with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, tasting to adjust.
Layer and Bake:
This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked is a comforting side that consistently gets rave reviews from my family and friends. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange one-third of your prepared potato slices evenly in the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping. Pour one-third of the warm creamy garlic sauce over the potatoes. If using cheese, sprinkle one-third of the grated cheese evenly over the sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with a final layer of sauce and cheese on top. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes until the potatoes begin to soften. Remove the foil, sprinkle with any remaining cheese (if desired), and bake for another 25-35 minutes, until the top is beautifully golden brown and bubbly and the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. A quick family tip I’ve learned for busy weeknights: if I’m short on time, I often pre-slice the potatoes in the morning and keep them submerged in cold water in the fridge. This makes assembly much faster after work, ensuring we still get this amazing creamy garlic baked scalloped potatoes for dinner without the fuss.
Rest and Serve:
This is crucial for the best texture! Let the Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the creamy sauce to set properly and makes for cleaner slices. I always find it hard to wait, but it’s worth it for that perfect consistency.
Quick Swaps & Variations:
This versatile Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked can be adapted to suit various needs:
- Dairy-free Scalloped Potatoes: For a dairy-free option, use unsweetened oat milk or cashew milk and a dairy-free cream alternative (like full-fat coconut milk from a can, for richness) instead of dairy products. Ensure vegan butter is used for the roux.
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: To enhance the cheese factor, experiment with a blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyere between layers, or even a smoked gouda for extra depth.
- Healthy Scalloped Potatoes: To lighten things up, you can use 2% milk or half-and-half in place of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese slightly for a healthy eating version. This makes it a great addition to your family-friendly quick meals.
Troubleshooting:
- Potatoes not tender? They might have been sliced too thick or not baked long enough. Simply cover the dish again with foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, checking tenderness with a fork.
- Sauce too thin? Don’t worry, the sauce will thicken further as it cools and rests. If it’s consistently too thin for your liking, next time reduce the liquid slightly by 1/4 cup or add a bit more flour (1-2 teaspoons) to the roux during the sauce-making step.
Best Ways to Enjoy Creamy Garlic Baked Scalloped Potatoes
This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked isn’t just for holidays; it’s perfect for any occasion that calls for comforting, family-friendly food. I often make a big batch of this on Sundays; it makes such a difference for easy weeknight dinners and quick meals.
Everyday Uses
- Fantastic weeknight dinner side, especially with roasted chicken or other savory meats.
- Ideal for family meal prep ideas – bake a big batch and reheat portions throughout the week.
- Great for quick lunches when reheated in the microwave or oven.
Special Occasions
- A show-stopping addition to holiday spreads (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter).
- Perfect for potlucks and gatherings – always a crowd-pleaser.
- A comforting dish for family celebrations.
Pairings
- Sides: Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, a simple garden salad.
- Main Dishes: Roasted turkey, steak, meatloaf, rotisserie chicken.
- Toppings: Fresh chives, a dollop of sour cream, or fried onions.
Nutrition & Everyday Wellness with Scalloped Potatoes
Making a balanced meal with this Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked is simple. Potatoes provide sustained energy, and you can easily complement them with lean proteins and fresh vegetables for wholesome ingredients.
- Balanced Meals: A hearty side that can be part of a balanced family meal when paired with lean protein and vegetables.
- Energy & Satiety: Potatoes offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, keeping you full and satisfied.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh potatoes, dairy, and garlic – components of healthy recipes for dinner.
- Naturally Integrating Terms: These Scalloped Potatoes can be modified for easy high-protein meals by serving with grilled chicken, or enjoyed as a satisfying component of family meal prep ideas. While not strictly gluten-free snacks, they are naturally gluten-free if you ensure your broth is GF.
How This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Solves Common Needs
This classic Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked addresses many common needs in the home kitchen, from family meals to ease of preparation.
- Comfort & Family Appeal: A universally loved comfort food that pleases even picky eaters.
- Convenience: Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and make-ahead potential make this an easy option for busy weeknights.
- Versatility: Adaptable for various meals and dietary preferences (e.g., cheesy scalloped potatoes, dairy-free scalloped potatoes).
Expert Pointers and Smart Variations for Creamy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes
Elevate your creamy garlic baked scalloped potatoes with these tried-and-true tips and adaptable variations.
Cooking Tricks
- Use a mandoline for perfectly even potato slices – ensures uniform cooking.
- Pre-warm your milk/cream mixture for a smoother, faster sauce.
- For extra crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the very end (watch carefully!).
Adjustments for Family/Kid Preferences
- Reduce garlic slightly for milder taste.
- Scalloped Potatoes with Cheese: Mix in different cheeses kids love, like mild cheddar or mozzarella.
Allergy-Friendly Tweaks/Diet-Safe Swaps
- Gluten-free Scalloped Potatoes: Ensure flour for roux is gluten-free (cornstarch can also be used, starting with 1.5 Tbsp).
- Lactose-free: Use lactose-free milk and cream alternatives.
- Vegan Scalloped Potatoes: Use plant-based milk/cream, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
Common Questions About Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked
Can I freeze Scalloped Potatoes for later?
Yes, baked scalloped potatoes freeze well. Cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 30-40 minutes.
What’s the healthiest way to make Scalloped Potatoes?
To make healthy scalloped potatoes, use lower-fat milk (like 2% or skim), reduce the amount of cheese, and load up on extra garlic and fresh herbs for flavor without added fat. You can also increase vegetable content by adding a layer of thinly sliced zucchini.
Which ingredients are best for meal prepping Scalloped Potatoes?
Russet potatoes hold their shape well, and heavy cream ensures a stable sauce for reheating. For easy portioning and reheating, I find individual ramekins are best for meal prepping this Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake or freeze.
Can I make Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble and bake the creamy garlic scalloped potatoes a day in advance. Let cool completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Reheat covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and bubbly, about 25-30 minutes.
How do I prevent Scalloped Potatoes from being watery?
Make sure to pat your potato slices very dry after rinsing to remove excess moisture. Also, ensure your sauce is properly thickened on the stovetop before layering. Don’t overcrowd your baking dish, as this can trap moisture.
What kind of potatoes are best for Scalloped Potatoes?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent choices for Scalloped Potatoes. Russets become wonderfully tender and absorb the creamy sauce, while Yukon Golds offer a slightly waxier texture that holds its shape beautifully after baking. Both work well for a creamy garlic baked scalloped potatoes dish.
This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, transforming any meal into a satisfying family dinner. I truly love how this dish brings everyone to the table; pin this easy recipe for family dinners today!
Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked
- Total Time: 115 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Creamy Garlic Baked is a fuss-free, incredibly satisfying dish with tender, thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a rich, creamy garlic sauce, baked to golden perfection with crispy edges. It’s perfect for busy families or holiday tables, offering a hearty, comforting meal component.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs Russets or Yukon Golds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1.5 cups full-fat heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 cloves garlic, freshly minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup Gruyere or sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (Optional but Recommended)
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prep Potatoes: Thinly slice about 3 lbs (1.4 kg) of peeled potatoes, aiming for a consistent 1/8-inch (3mm) thickness using a mandoline or a very sharp knife. Rinse them well in cold water to remove excess starch, then pat them very dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Make Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp (28g) butter over medium heat until shimmering. Add 3 cloves of minced fresh garlic and sauté for 1 minute until wonderfully fragrant. Whisk in 2 tbsp (16g) flour and cook for another minute, creating a light roux. Slowly whisk in 1.5 cups (360ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (240ml) milk, and 0.5 cup (120ml) chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until it visibly thickens to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Season generously with 1 tsp salt and 0.5 tsp black pepper, tasting to adjust.
- Layer and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange one-third of your prepared potato slices evenly in the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping. Pour one-third of the warm creamy garlic sauce over the potatoes. If using cheese, sprinkle one-third of the grated cheese evenly over the sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with a final layer of sauce and cheese on top. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes until the potatoes begin to soften. Remove the foil, sprinkle with any remaining cheese (if desired), and bake for another 25-35 minutes, until the top is beautifully golden brown and bubbly and the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
- Rest and Serve: Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the creamy sauce to set properly and makes for cleaner slices.
Notes
For best results, ensure potatoes are very dry after rinsing to prevent a watery sauce. For quicker assembly on busy days, pre-slice potatoes and store submerged in cold water in the fridge. Enhance flavor with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (tuck into layers), a pinch of nutmeg, or a dash of smoked paprika. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley before serving. For a dairy-free option, use unsweetened oat milk or cashew milk, a dairy-free cream alternative, and vegan butter. To lighten the dish, use 2 percent milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce cheese slightly. If potatoes are not tender, cover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. Sauce will thicken further as it cools and rests; for a thicker sauce next time, reduce liquid by 0.25 cup or add 1-2 teaspoons more flour to the roux.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 180 g)
- Calories: 350 calories
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: scalloped potatoes, creamy garlic, baked, potato side, comfort food, family dinner, holiday dish, easy, savory, cheesy