Best Scalloped Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 4-5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. 
   

   Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

   
   
2. 
   

   Prepare the potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8 inch thick). You can use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices, which helps the potatoes cook evenly.

   
   
3. 
   

   Make the creamy sauce:

   
   
   • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, then remove from heat.
   
   
4. 
   

   Layer the potatoes:

   
   
   • Place a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper, and then top with a layer of cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese.
   • Repeat the layering process, building layers of potatoes, seasoning, and cheese until all of the potatoes are used.
   
   
5. 
   

   Pour the cream mixture:

   
   
   • Once all the layers are assembled, pour the creamy sauce evenly over the potatoes. Ensure the sauce covers all of the potatoes.
   
   
6. 
   

   Bake the scalloped potatoes:

   
   
   • Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
   • After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. If you like a crispier top, you can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes.
   
   
7. 
   

   Garnish and serve:

   
   
   • Once baked, remove from the oven and let the scalloped potatoes sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of paprika for color.
   
   

Serve:

These Best Scalloped Potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! They make an excellent side dish for holiday dinners, roasted meats, or a hearty weeknight meal.