Creamy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Ingredients

1.5 kg potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into thin, even slices, about 3–4 mm thick. Do not soak them, as the natural starch helps thicken the sauce.
3. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
6. Add salt, black pepper, onion powder, and thyme. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce becomes slightly thick and creamy.
7. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping each slice.
8. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potatoes and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
9. Add the remaining potatoes and pour the remaining sauce over the top. Finish with the remaining cheeses.
10. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 25–35 minutes, until the potatoes are completely tender and the top is golden and bubbling.
12. Let the potatoes rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.

Tips

Use potatoes that are similar in size so they cook evenly. Slice them thinly and consistently for the best texture.

For an extra-rich version, replace some of the milk with additional heavy cream.

For a crispy golden top, place the dish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.

Conclusion

These creamy scalloped potatoes are tender, cheesy, and packed with garlic and herb flavor. The creamy sauce settles between every layer of potato, while the melted cheese creates a delicious golden crust on top. They make a perfect side dish for roast chicken, steak, ham, or a holiday dinner.