Creamy Garlic Herb Scalloped Potatoes

 

There is something incredibly comforting about a dish of creamy baked potatoes fresh out of the oven. Soft, tender potato slices layered in a rich garlic herb cream sauce create the ultimate side dish that feels both rustic and elegant. Whether served at a holiday dinner, family gathering, or simple weeknight meal, scalloped potatoes never fail to impress.

This Creamy Garlic Herb Scalloped Potatoes recipe combines thinly sliced potatoes with a velvety homemade cream sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and subtle seasoning. As the dish bakes, the sauce thickens and soaks into every layer, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture with golden edges on top.

It’s a classic comfort food recipe that pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, steak, turkey, or even as a satisfying vegetarian main dish. Best of all, it’s simple to prepare with everyday ingredients and delivers rich, bakery-style results.

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Ingredients

• 2 pounds (900g) potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Wash and thinly slice the potatoes evenly (about 1/8 inch thick). You can peel them or leave the skin on for extra texture.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to form a light roux.
Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and milk. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens (about 3–5 minutes).
Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Lightly grease a baking dish.
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the dish.
Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes.
Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
Sprinkle cheese on top if using.

Step 4: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

• Slice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
• Yukon Gold potatoes work especially well for creamy texture.
• Add caramelized onions for extra flavor.
• For a richer version, use only heavy cream.
• For a crispy top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

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Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Can be frozen, though texture may slightly change.

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These Creamy Garlic Herb Scalloped Potatoes are rich, comforting, and full of flavor — the perfect side dish for any special occasion or cozy family dinner.