Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the thyme, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Heat the mixture until it begins to simmer, then remove it from the heat.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer. If using onion, add half of the sliced onion on top.
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
Pour half of the creamy sauce over this layer, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, cheese, and sauce. Finish by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once done, allow the dish to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set a bit and make it easier to serve.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Slice Evenly: For the best results, use a mandoline slicer to ensure even thickness of potato slices. This helps them cook uniformly.
Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a unique flavor. Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack all work beautifully.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish a day in advance. Simply assemble the layers and store them in the fridge. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
Conclusion
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With their creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and rich flavors, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is simple to follow and yields a truly delightful result. Enjoy the deliciousness of cheesy scalloped potatoes with your loved ones!
