Garlic & Herb Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any season. With layers of creamy, cheesy goodness, this dish transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary and crowd-pleasing.
Russet potatoes are starchy and help thicken the sauce as they bake. Heavy cream and whole milk create a rich, creamy base. Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavor, while fresh thyme adds a hint of herbal freshness. Salt and black pepper bring out all the flavors. Gruyere cheese melts beautifully, offering a nutty depth, and Parmesan cheese provides a sharp, savory kick. Finally, unsalted butter ensures the dish doesn't stick to the pan, making serving a breeze.
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or beef tenderloin. For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A glass of chilled white wine like Chardonnay complements these scalloped potatoes perfectly.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for even cooking. While that’s warming up, use unsalted butter to grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. This will prevent sticking and make serving easier later on.
In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, minced garlic, and fresh thyme. Warm these over medium heat but be careful not to let it boil—it should be just enough to infuse the flavors.
Now for the fun part: layering. Place half of your thinly sliced russet potatoes in the baking dish. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. Pour half of your warm cream mixture over these seasoned potatoes, making sure they're well coated.
Then, sprinkle half of the Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses over the top. This cheesy layer will melt into the potatoes as they bake, creating a deliciously gooey texture.
Repeat these steps with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheeses. Once layered, cover the dish with foil, ensuring it's well-sealed to trap in the moisture.
Bake for 45 minutes. This initial bake allows the potatoes to cook through thoroughly. Afterward, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 15 minutes. This step is key for achieving that golden, bubbly top.
Finally, let it cool slightly before serving. This rest period helps the layers set a bit, making it easier to serve.