1-First Step: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare all ingredients by thinly slicing the potatoes and mincing the garlic if needed. Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

2-Second Step: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in milk or cream, salt, and pepper, heating gently to create the creamy sauce, but adapt by using the roux from butter and flour as mentioned.

3-Third Step: Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the baking dish. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese, caramelized onions, and crumbled bacon.

4-Fourth Step: Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, sauce, cheese, onions, and bacon, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed for that perfect bite.

5-Fifth Step: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.

6-Sixth Step: Let the loaded scalloped potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld, just as in the original recipe’s instructions.