Quick Description
These High-Protein Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are rich, creamy, and layered with tender sliced potatoes in a smooth garlic cheese sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden, this classic comfort dish is perfect for family dinners, holidays, or anytime you need something warm and satisfying.
Servings & Timing
Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 45–55 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients List
- 2 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup butter
- 1½ teaspoons minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Whisk in flour, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups of the cheese until smooth.
3. Layer the Potatoes
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over them.
Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheese on top.
4. Bake
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until golden and potatoes are tender.
5. Rest & Serve
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to set.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 360
Protein: 15g
Carbs: 34g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Benefits
- High-Protein Side Dish – thanks to milk & cheese
- Ultra Creamy Texture
- Classic Comfort Food
- Perfect for Holidays & Potlucks
- Kid-Friendly
Additional Notes
- Use whole milk or evaporated milk for extra richness
- Add cooked chicken or ham for a full meal
- Gruyère or Monterey Jack also work beautifully
- Slice potatoes thin for even cooking
Dietary Info
High-Protein: ✅
Gluten-Free: ❌ (unless using GF flour)
Vegetarian: ✅
Low-Carb: ❌
Keto-Friendly: ❌
Brief Introduction
Scalloped potatoes never go out of style. This version is creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and baked until perfectly tender. It’s one of those dishes everyone comes back for seconds.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Make garlic butter roux
- Add milk & cheese
- Layer potatoes & sauce
- Bake covered
- Uncover & brown
- Rest & serve
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Potatoes:
Russet or Yukon Gold work best.
Milk:
Use half-and-half for extra creaminess.
Cheese:
Sharp cheddar gives best flavor.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Variations
- Add crispy bacon
- Add sliced onions
- Add broccoli or spinach
- Make spicy with jalapeños
Serve With
- Roasted chicken
- Steak
- Meatloaf
- Grilled vegetables
- Holiday dinners
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate: 4 days
Freeze: 2 months
Reheat: oven or microwave
FAQs
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but fresh melts smoother.
Can I add meat?
Absolutely, chicken or ham works great.
Optional Personal Story
This dish is always the first to disappear at family gatherings. The creamy layers and cheesy top never fail to impress.