Cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes 

 

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Peel the potatoes and thinly slice them into rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. You can use a mandoline slicer for even slices.

Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Cook the sauce for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened, stirring frequently.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.

Assemble the Casserole:

1. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
2. Pour half of the garlic cream sauce over the potatoes, spreading it out evenly.
3. Arrange the remaining sliced potatoes over the sauce in an even layer.
4. Pour the remaining garlic cream sauce over the potatoes, ensuring that they are evenly coated.

Bake the Casserole:

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Finish and Serve:

1. Remove the foil from the baking dish and sprinkle the top of the potatoes with additional shredded cheese, if desired.
2. Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.
4. Enjoy your cheesy garlic scalloped potatoes as a delicious and comforting side dish that’s perfect for holidays, special occasions, or anytime you’re craving a cozy and indulgent meal!