Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that always steals the show, these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are exactly what you need. They are creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made this dish for Thanksgiving—everyone just can’t get enough of it! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it brings people together around the table.

These scalloped potatoes are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a bit of slicing and mixing, you can whip this up in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike adore the creamy goodness and cheesy layers.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it earlier in the day and pop it in the oven when it’s time to eat.
• Deliciously flavorful: Infusing the cream with herbs adds a depth that makes each bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Don’t worry; there’s nothing fancy here—just good food made with love!

For the Scalloped Potatoes

• Yukon Gold potatoes
• Heavy cream
• Butter
• Fresh rosemary (or thyme/sage)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base
• Parmesan cheese

Optional Add-Ons

• Chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Variations

One of the great things about these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes is their flexibility. Feel free to switch things up based on your preferences or what you have available!

• Try different cheeses: Use Pecorino Romano cheese instead of parmesan for a sharper flavor.
• Switch up the potatoes: Red-skinned potatoes work beautifully as an alternative to Yukon Golds.
• Change the base flavor: Substitute with Better Than Bouillon Sautéed Onion Base or Roasted Turkey Base if you want a different twist.
• Herb alternatives: If you’re not a fan of rosemary, feel free to use fresh thyme or sage instead.

How to Make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This step is essential because it ensures that your scalloped potatoes cook evenly and develop that beautiful golden crust on top.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease your baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter and sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese at the bottom. This adds extra flavor while also preventing sticking—no one wants a delicious potato stuck to the pan!

Step 3: Infuse the Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream, butter, fresh herbs, salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base. Stir gently until the butter melts and small wisps of steam rise from the mixture. This infusion process brings out all those lovely flavors which will soak into the potatoes.

Step 4: Slice Those Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer, thinly slice your Yukon Gold potatoes to about ⅛” thick. Gather the slices into loose stacks and arrange them diagonally in your prepared baking dish. This fanned-out presentation not only looks gorgeous but also allows for even cooking.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour that wonderful infused cream mixture over your potato stacks. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes; this steams the potatoes until they’re tender.

Step 6: Uncover and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 20 minutes until everything is bubbly and thickened around the edges. If you want that extra crispy top, broil for about 4 minutes at the end—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

And there you have it! A delightful dish of Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes ready to impress your family and friends at any gathering. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Making scalloped potatoes can be a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can elevate your dish even further!

• Use Waxy Potatoes: Opting for waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red-skinned varieties helps maintain the creamy texture and keeps the slices from falling apart during baking.

• Infuse Your Cream: Gently heating the cream with fresh herbs and seasonings not only enhances the flavor but also allows the potatoes to absorb the deliciousness as they cook.

• Slice Evenly: Using a mandoline slicer ensures uniform thickness for each potato slice, allowing them to cook evenly and creating a beautiful layered effect in your dish.

• Don’t Rush the Baking: Allowing the scalloped potatoes to bake covered initially helps steam them until tender. Uncovering later promotes that gorgeous golden crust we all love!

• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile. Cheese lovers will appreciate this extra layer of taste!

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

When it comes to serving these luscious parmesan scalloped potatoes, presentation is key! Layer them beautifully in your serving dish, and consider adding some garnishes for that extra touch.

Garnishes

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds vibrant color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dish.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives provide a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes without overpowering them.
• Fresh Sage Leaves: For an aromatic touch, garnish with whole sage leaves. They also make for an elegant visual appeal on top of your dish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These slightly charred sprouts bring a nutty flavor and crunch that pairs wonderfully with creamy scalloped potatoes.
• Honey Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of honey-glazed carrots acts as a lovely contrast to the savory notes in your scalloped potatoes, creating a balanced plate.
• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic offer a crisp texture and vibrant color, enhancing both nutrition and visual appeal.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with refreshing ingredients such as cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon dressing provides a healthy contrast alongside rich scalloped potatoes.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes will not only taste amazing but also impress your guests visually. Enjoy creating this delicious side dish that will surely be the highlight of your Thanksgiving feast!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Parmesan scalloped potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making them a fantastic addition to your holiday spread or weeknight dinners. You can prepare them in advance and enjoy the rich flavors without the last-minute rush.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to store for longer, freeze the scalloped potatoes before baking.
• Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture during reheating.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. For a crispy top, uncover for the last 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Parmesan scalloped potatoes.

Can I make Parmesan scalloped potatoes without cream?

Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with a mixture of milk and a little cornstarch for thickness. This will provide a similar creamy texture while keeping it lighter.

How do I achieve perfectly layered Parmesan scalloped potatoes?

To get those beautifully layered scalloped potatoes, use a mandoline slicer for even thickness. Arrange the slices in a fanned pattern and avoid overlapping too much for optimal cooking.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese in Parmesan scalloped potatoes?

Pecorino Romano cheese is an excellent alternative that adds a slightly different flavor profile but still maintains that cheesy goodness.

How long do Parmesan scalloped potatoes last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these potatoes will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these delicious Parmesan scalloped potatoes! They’re not only creamy and flavorful but also bring warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you’re serving them at Thanksgiving or enjoying them on a cozy weeknight, I’m sure they will delight everyone at your table. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or any variations you try!