Creamy, garlicky scalloped potatoes layered with mozzarella and Parmesan — a perfect comforting side dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy sauce infused with fresh garlic flavor

• Layers of tender potatoes with gooey melted mozzarella and sharp Parmesan

• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients

• Perfect side for holiday dinners or weeknight comfort food

• Can be made ahead and baked just before serving

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced (or 4 large cloves)

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 4 cups milk (skim, 2%, or whole)

• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder or kosher salt

• 1 pinch salt, to taste

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 2½ pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8–1/4 inch thick

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, divided

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

Directions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 3

Lower heat to medium-low. Gradually whisk in milk, ¼ cup at a time, stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle boil and cook until slightly thickened. Stir in bouillon powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.

Step 4

Layer half the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Pour half the sauce evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5

Repeat with remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheeses to form a second layer.

Step 6

Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 7

Remove foil and bake an additional 30 minutes until golden and bubbly. For extra crispness, broil 2–3 minutes if desired.

Step 8

Garnish with fresh chives and serve warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for creamy texture, but red potatoes can be used if sliced thinly.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake covered, then uncover for the last 30 minutes.

Is there a way to make it dairy-free?

You can substitute milk with unsweetened plant-based milk and use dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives.

How thin should I slice the potatoes?

Slices about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick work best for even cooking and layering.

Can I add herbs or other spices?

Yes! Fresh thyme or rosemary pairs nicely with the creamy sauce, or a pinch of nutmeg adds warmth.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes recipe is the ultimate comforting side dish with rich, cheesy layers and tender potatoes. It’s straightforward to make, incredibly satisfying, and sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.