- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the onion for about 2 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Stir in heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes (do not boil), then remove from heat.
4. Layer the Potatoes & Cheese
- Arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer in the baking dish.
- Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes and sprinkle with ½ cup cheddar cheese and ¼ cup Parmesan.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheeses.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
6. Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm!
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serving: Pairs well with roast chicken, steak, or holiday ham.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Assemble without baking, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave in short bursts.
Variations & Customizations
- Cheese Lovers: Use a mix of Gruyère, Swiss, or smoked Gouda.
- Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Add cooked bacon or caramelized onions.
- Garlic Parmesan Version: Increase garlic and use extra Parmesan.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk and vegan cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
2. How do I keep my potatoes from turning brown?
Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water and drain before layering.
3. Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes give a slightly sweeter, richer flavor.
4. Why are my potatoes still firm?
Make sure they are sliced thinly and baked long enough for them to soften completely.
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