Three Cheese Garlic Scalloped Potatoes: A Decadent Comfort Food Recipe

Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food dish, and this three-cheese garlic version takes them to a whole new level of deliciousness. The combination of creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar, nutty Gruyere, and tangy Parmesan, infused with the savory aroma of garlic and scallions, creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe is perfect for a holiday gathering, a special occasion, or simply a cozy weeknight dinner. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this incredibly flavorful and satisfying dish!

## Why This Recipe Works

This recipe stands out for several reasons:

* **Three Cheese Blend:** The use of three different cheeses provides a complex and balanced flavor profile. Cheddar adds sharpness, Gruyere contributes nuttiness and meltability, and Parmesan provides a salty, savory depth.
* **Garlic Infusion:** Fresh garlic cloves are sautéed in butter to create a fragrant and flavorful base for the sauce.
* **Scallions for Freshness:** Sliced scallions add a touch of freshness and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and potatoes.
* **Creamy Sauce:** A combination of heavy cream and milk creates a luxuriously creamy sauce that coats the potatoes perfectly.
* **Even Cooking:** The thinly sliced potatoes ensure even cooking and a tender texture throughout the dish.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

* **Potatoes:** 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick). Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they have a creamy texture and hold their shape well during cooking. Russet potatoes can also be used, but they may become slightly more starchy.
* **Butter:** 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Butter adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves garlic, minced. Freshly minced garlic is essential for the best flavor.
* **Scallions:** 4 scallions, thinly sliced (both white and green parts). Scallions provide a mild onion flavor and a touch of freshness.
* **Heavy Cream:** 1 1/2 cups heavy cream. Heavy cream is crucial for creating a rich and creamy sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less thick.
* **Milk:** 1 cup whole milk. Milk adds moisture and helps to create a smooth sauce.
* **Cheddar Cheese:** 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Sharp cheddar provides a tangy and distinct flavor.
* **Gruyere Cheese:** 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese. Gruyere adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor and melts beautifully.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Parmesan provides a salty, savory, and umami flavor.
* **Salt:** 1 1/2 teaspoons, or to taste. Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
* **Black Pepper:** 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste. Black pepper adds a subtle spice and complexity.
* **Fresh Thyme (Optional):** 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme. Fresh thyme adds a fragrant and earthy note that complements the other flavors.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Mandoline or Sharp Knife:** For thinly slicing the potatoes. A mandoline ensures consistent thickness.
* **Large Skillet or Saucepan:** For making the garlic-infused cream sauce.
* **9×13 inch Baking Dish:** For assembling and baking the scalloped potatoes.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.
* **Cheese Grater:** For shredding the cheeses.
* **Mixing Bowls:** For preparing the potatoes and cheese.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect three-cheese garlic scalloped potatoes:

### Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. **Peel the Potatoes:** Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly.
2. **Slice the Potatoes:** Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, slice the potatoes into thin, even slices, about 1/8 inch thick. Consistent thickness is crucial for even cooking.
3. **Rinse the Potatoes:** Place the sliced potatoes in a large bowl of cold water. This helps to remove excess starch and prevent them from browning. Rinse them several times until the water runs clear. Drain well.

### Step 2: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

1. **Sauté the Garlic:** In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
2. **Add the Scallions:** Add the sliced scallions to the skillet and sauté for another minute, until softened.
3. **Pour in the Cream and Milk:** Pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir well to combine.
4. **Season the Sauce:** Add salt and black pepper to the sauce. If using, add the chopped fresh thyme.
5. **Simmer the Sauce:** Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has slightly thickened.

### Step 3: Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes

1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Grease the Baking Dish:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
3. **Layer the Potatoes and Cheese:** Arrange a layer of potato slices on the bottom of the baking dish, overlapping them slightly. Sprinkle with a mixture of cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheese. Drizzle some of the garlic cream sauce over the potatoes and cheese.
4. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layers of potatoes, cheese, and sauce until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
5. **Press Down Gently:** Gently press down on the layers of potatoes to ensure they are submerged in the sauce.

### Step 4: Bake the Scalloped Potatoes

1. **Cover with Foil:** Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help the potatoes cook evenly and prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
2. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
3. **Remove Foil:** Remove the aluminum foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown. You can test the potatoes for tenderness by inserting a fork into the center of the dish. If the fork goes in easily, the potatoes are done.
4. **Broil (Optional):** For a more browned and bubbly top, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

### Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. **Let it Rest:** Remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.
2. **Garnish (Optional):** Garnish with fresh parsley or extra scallions, if desired.
3. **Serve:** Serve the three-cheese garlic scalloped potatoes warm. They are delicious on their own or as a side dish to roasted chicken, beef, or pork.

## Tips for Success

* **Slice the Potatoes Evenly:** Consistent potato slice thickness is key for even cooking. Use a mandoline for best results.
* **Don’t Overcook the Garlic:** Burnt garlic will make the sauce bitter. Sauté it gently until fragrant.
* **Adjust the Cheese Ratio:** Feel free to adjust the ratio of cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheese to your liking. You can also experiment with other cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Fontina.
* **Use Fresh Herbs:** Fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives can add a wonderful aroma and flavor to the dish.
* **Don’t Skip the Resting Time:** Letting the scalloped potatoes rest after baking allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
* **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the scalloped potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
* **Use different potatoes:** While Yukon Golds are preferred, Russet, Red or even sweet potatoes can be used. Adjust cooking time as needed.

## Variations and Add-Ins

* **Add Bacon:** Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor.
* **Add Ham:** Diced ham makes this dish a hearty main course.
* **Add Caramelized Onions:** Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory depth of flavor.
* **Add Spinach:** Sautéed spinach adds a boost of nutrients and a touch of green.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Try using different combinations of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, Fontina, or Gouda.
* **Vegetarian Option:** For a vegetarian version, ensure the cheese used is vegetarian rennet free.

## Serving Suggestions

Three-cheese garlic scalloped potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways:

* **Side Dish:** Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken, beef, pork, or fish.
* **Holiday Gathering:** Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.
* **Potluck:** A crowd-pleasing dish to bring to a potluck.
* **Main Course:** Serve as a hearty main course, especially when combined with ham or bacon.
* **Comfort Food:** Enjoy on a cozy night in.

## Storage and Reheating

* **Storage:** Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until warm. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to prevent them from drying out.
* **Freezing:** Freezing is not recommended, as the potatoes may become mushy upon thawing.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a serving of three-cheese garlic scalloped potatoes is likely to be high in calories, fat, and carbohydrates. It is a rich and indulgent dish, so enjoy it in moderation.

## Conclusion

These three-cheese garlic scalloped potatoes are a truly decadent and satisfying dish that is sure to impress. With their creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and garlicky aroma, they are the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Follow this recipe and enjoy a culinary masterpiece that your family and friends will rave about!

Enjoy your delicious homemade three-cheese garlic scalloped potatoes!