Creamy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes

Ingredients

• 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian herbs

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
   Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Prepare Potatoes
   Peel and slice potatoes thinly (about 3–4 mm thick). Arrange them evenly in the baking dish.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

   • Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.

   • Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

   • Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.

   • Gradually whisk in milk and cream.

   • Add salt, pepper, and herbs.

   • Cook until the sauce thickens (3–4 minutes).

4. Add Cheese
   Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

5. Assemble
   Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the sliced potatoes.

6. Bake
   Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
   Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top, and bake another 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

7. Serve
   Garnish with chopped parsley and let it rest 5 minutes before serving.

Q&A

Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q2: Why slice potatoes thinly?
Thin slices cook evenly and absorb the creamy sauce better.

Q3: Can I use only milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. You can add extra cheese to improve texture.

Q4: Which potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are best because they become soft and creamy when baked.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

Q6: Can I add other ingredients?
Yes, you can add caramelized onions, cooked bacon, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor.

Q7: How do I reheat it?
Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions.