Preheat the Oven: Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take an 8×8 or a 7×10 baking pan and generously butter the bottom and sides.
Layer the Potatoes: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared pan.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional minute. Reduce the heat to medium-low, gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Allow the sauce to come to a light simmer to thicken. Then, mix in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Remove the sauce from heat.
Assemble: Pour half of the cheese sauce over the first layer of potatoes. Sprinkle about 1/2 cup of cheese on top. Arrange the remaining potato slices over this cheese layer. Pour the rest of the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes and top with the remaining cheese.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake, uncovered, for 50-60 minutes. The potatoes should be fork-tender, and the top golden brown.
Enjoy: Allow the potatoes to cool slightly before serving to let the sauce thicken up a bit more. Serve warm as a delicious side that complements any main course.
Chef’s Tips:
Feel free to add a personal touch by incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cheese sauce for added flavor.
For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with low-fat milk, but keep in mind, the sauce might be less creamy.
If you’re a cheese lover, go ahead and add extra cheese on top for a more gooey and golden crust. However, if you prefer a lighter dish, you can reduce the amount of cheese used on top without sacrificing flavor.
Celebrate the holidays or any special dinner with these heavenly cheesy scalloped potatoes that promise to steal the show.
