If you’re craving a soul-comforting side dish that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Thyme Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. With layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes bathed in a luxuriously creamy sauce infused with fragrant garlic and fresh thyme, all topped with a golden, bubbly cheddar crust, this dish turns everyday potatoes into something truly spectacular. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast, a Sunday dinner, or just because, these scalloped potatoes will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keep it simple but flavorful! Each ingredient in this recipe has a vital role: from the butter that adds richness, to the fresh thyme that imparts a lovely herbal brightness, and the Yukon Gold potatoes which provide the perfect creamy texture. Let’s dive into what you will need to make this Creamy Garlic Thyme Scalloped Potatoes Recipe stand out.
- Unsalted butter, 3 tablespoons: Essential for creating that smooth, luscious sauce and ensuring the dish doesn’t stick to the pan.
- All-purpose flour, ¼ cup: Acts as the thickening agent to give the sauce its signature creamy consistency without being runny.
- Whole milk, 2 cups: Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce, balancing the garlic’s punch and the thyme’s aroma.
- Vegetable broth, 1 cup: Boosts the depth of flavor while keeping the sauce light and flavorful.
- Garlic cloves, 4 (grated): Freshly grated for that fragrant, savory punch that complements the thyme and potatoes beautifully.
- Fresh thyme leaves, 1 tablespoon (chopped): Provides an earthy, slightly minty note that lifts the dish and makes it unique.
- Sea salt, 2 teaspoons: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the delicate creaminess.
- Freshly ground black pepper, ½ teaspoon: Adds a subtle kick and depth to the sauce.
- Yukon Gold potatoes, 3 pounds (sliced â…›-inch thick): Their creamy texture and buttery flavor make these the perfect potato choice for scalloped potatoes.
- Yellow onion, ½ medium (thinly sliced): Adds a mild sweetness and layers of flavor between the potatoes.
- Grated cheddar cheese, 1½ cups: Gives a golden, melty topping that’s rich and irresistibly cheesy.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Thyme Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Grease
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F—it’s going to give you that perfect golden brown top and tender potatoes beneath. While the oven warms up, generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. This not only helps prevent sticking but adds another layer of buttery goodness to your dish.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
Melt the three tablespoons of butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. As soon as it’s melted, whisk in the flour. Keep whisking for about a minute to cook out that raw flour taste and create a smooth base. Slowly pour in the whole milk, followed by the vegetable broth, all while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Once the mixture starts to thicken slightly, stir in the freshly grated garlic, chopped thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, whisking often until the sauce just coats the back of a spoon. This velvety sauce will cling to the potatoes beautifully, making every bite luscious and flavorful.
Step 3: Layer Up the Potatoes
The magic really starts here. Lay half of your thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes in the bottom of the buttered dish, making sure they overlap slightly for even cooking. Scatter half of the thinly sliced yellow onions over the potatoes. Pour half of your creamy garlic and thyme sauce over the layers, then sprinkle with one cup of the grated cheddar cheese. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, onions, sauce, and top with the remaining half-cup cheese. This layering builds those luxurious pockets of creamy, cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover your dish with foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes covered to allow the potatoes to soften perfectly. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 35 to 40 minutes. This uncovered stage lets the cheese melt and brown into a gorgeous golden crust with bubbling edges. When the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is browned just right, it’s time to let the dish rest. Set it aside at room temperature for at least 20 minutes before serving—this step lets the sauce thicken up and flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Thyme Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate the presentation and flavor by adding a light sprinkle of freshly chopped thyme or a touch of crispy fried shallots on top. A small handful of finely chopped chives or parsley also brightens the dish with a burst of fresh color and flavor. For a bit of indulgence, a small drizzle of browned butter just before serving takes the creaminess up a notch.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Garlic Thyme Scalloped Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with just about any protein. Think roasted chicken, herb-crusted pork tenderloin, or seared steak. For a vegetarian spread, roasted Brussels sprouts or a crisp green salad add the perfect contrast to the richness of the potatoes. The dish’s crowd-pleasing creaminess complements both casual family dinners and fancy holiday spreads alike.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning centerpiece, consider baking the dish in individual ramekins for personal servings at a dinner party. You could also spoon the scalloped potato mixture into puff pastry shells for a fun handheld appetizer option. Another exciting idea is to serve it alongside grilled vegetables stacked in layers, creating a colorful and textural experience that’s as pleasing to the eyes as to the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your scalloped potatoes have cooled completely, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 4 days, making them perfect for quick reheating during the week. The flavors actually deepen after sitting, making your next meal just as delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze it before baking by covering tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. Freezing after baking is possible, but reheating may slightly affect the creamy texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the scalloped potatoes in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of reheating. Avoid microwaving if possible, as oven reheating maintains that luscious texture and rich flavor beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes in this Creamy Garlic Thyme Scalloped Potatoes Recipe?
Absolutely! While Yukon Golds are perfect for their creamy, buttery texture, Russets or red potatoes can also work. Just keep in mind that Russets might break down a bit more, leading to a softer, more mashed texture.
Is it necessary to use fresh thyme leaves, or can I use dried?
Fresh thyme really shines in this recipe with its bright, herbal notes. However, if you only have dried thyme on hand, you can substitute about one-third of the fresh amount. Add it early in the cooking process to allow the flavor to infuse the sauce.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another type?
Yes! Sharp white cheddar, Gruyère, or even a blend of cheeses can provide different but delicious flavors. Just choose cheeses that melt well to keep that beautiful, gooey top layer you’re aiming for.
How thin should the potato slices be?
Slice the potatoes about â…›-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly and absorb plenty of that creamy sauce. Using a mandoline slicer can be a big help here for uniform slices.
Can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Definitely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly since the broth is vegetable-based, and no meat products are used. Just be sure to use a vegetarian-friendly cheddar cheese if that’s a concern.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a warm, cheesy, creamy slice of scalloped potatoes, and this Creamy Garlic Thyme Scalloped Potatoes Recipe delivers on all fronts. From its aromatic garlic and thyme-infused sauce to the perfectly tender Yukon Golds graced with a melted cheddar crown, it’s a dish that invites smiles and second helpings. I promise, once you make this, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So go ahead and give it a try—you’re going to love how easy and satisfying this recipe is!
Print
Creamy Garlic Thyme Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic and creamy scalloped potatoes recipe featuring tender Yukon Gold potatoes layered with a rich garlic-thyme cheese sauce, baked until bubbly and golden brown. Perfect comfort food for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for the pan)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 4 garlic cloves (grated)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (chopped)
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (sliced â…›-inch thick)
- ½ medium yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- 1½ cups grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in ¼ cup all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups whole milk followed by 1 cup vegetable broth, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce. Add 4 grated garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme, 2 teaspoons sea salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Cook while whisking for 2 to 3 minutes, until the sauce thickens enough to lightly coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat.
- Layer the Potatoes: Spread half of the thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes at the bottom of the prepared dish. Evenly layer half of the thinly sliced yellow onion over the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the onions, then sprinkle 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat by layering the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce in the same order. Finish with the remaining ½ cup of grated cheddar cheese evenly sprinkled on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This helps the potatoes start cooking and absorb the flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 35 to 40 minutes. This allows the top to brown and become bubbly while ensuring the potatoes are tender throughout.
- Rest Before Serving: Once baked, let the scalloped potatoes stand at room temperature for 20 minutes. This resting time helps the dish set and makes it easier to serve.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and smooth slicing.
- Slicing potatoes uniformly (â…›-inch thick) ensures even cooking.
- For a sharper flavor, substitute cheddar with Gruyère or a mix of cheeses.
- Make sure to whisk the sauce continuously to prevent lumps in the roux.
- If preferred, add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for subtle warmth.
- Letting the dish rest before serving helps it firm up and improves slicing.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
