Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for the perfect side dish to elevate your holiday meal, these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are just what you need. Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, they have become a staple at my family gatherings. There’s something about the layers of tender potatoes enveloped in a cheesy, herb-infused cream that makes every bite feel like a hug from the inside. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish will surely impress your loved ones.

What I love most about these potatoes is how easy they come together. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you’ll have a dish that feels both comforting and special. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making your holiday prep just a little bit smoother!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: These scalloped potatoes come together quickly, so you can spend more time enjoying your guests.
• Family favorite: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can assemble this dish earlier in the day and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
• Flavorful twist: The infusion of fresh herbs and roasted garlic base adds depth to this classic recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this delicious side dish!

For the Creamy Mixture

• Heavy cream
• Unsalted butter
• Fresh rosemary (or thyme/sage as alternatives)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base

For the Potatoes

• Yukon Gold potatoes (or red-skinned potatoes as an alternative)
• Grated parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano cheese as a substitute)

Optional Add-Ons

• Chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Change the cheese: Swap out parmesan for Pecorino Romano to bring a different flavor profile.
• Switch up the potatoes: Use red-skinned potatoes instead of Yukon Golds for a slightly different texture and color.
• Herb alternatives: Try fresh thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a new twist on flavor.
• Broil for extra crispiness: If you like a crunchy top layer, add another few minutes under the broiler at the end!

How to Make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F degrees. This ensures that when you put your assembled dish in, it will cook evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Grease and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Take a baking dish and grease it with 1 tablespoon of butter. Then sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese on top. This not only prevents sticking but also creates a lovely crust on the bottom!

Step 3: Infuse Your Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream, butter, herbs, salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base. Heat until the butter melts and there are just a few wisps of smoke—about 5 minutes. Stir in all but 1/4 cup of the grated parmesan cheese. This step is crucial because it melds all those incredible flavors together!

Step 4: Slice Your Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer (be careful!), thinly slice each potato to about ⅛” thick. Gather these slices into loose stacks and transfer them diagonally into your prepared baking dish. Layering them this way not only looks beautiful but also helps them cook evenly.

Step 5: Pour Over The Cream Mixture

Once your potato layers are arranged nicely in the dish, pour that luscious infused cream mixture over them evenly. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil to trap all that steam while it bakes.

Step 6: Bake Until Tender

Bake covered for about 45 minutes. After that time has passed, uncover your dish and bake for another 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cream has thickened around the edges. If you’d like a golden top—who doesn’t?—broil for about 4 minutes until beautifully browned.

Now you’re ready to serve these amazing Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes! They’re sure to be a highlight on any table! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Creating the perfect dish of parmesan scalloped potatoes is all in the details! Here are some handy tips to ensure your potatoes turn out creamy and delicious every time.

• Use a Mandoline Slicer: This tool allows you to slice your potatoes evenly and quickly, which ensures they cook uniformly. Uneven slices can lead to some pieces being overcooked while others are underdone.
• Infuse Flavors: Heating the cream with herbs and seasoning before pouring it over the potatoes enhances the flavors immensely. It allows the herbs to release their aromatic oils, making each bite more flavorful.
• Layer Carefully: Stacking the potato slices in a diagonal fashion not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also helps them cook more evenly. This method creates pockets for the creamy mixture to seep in, ensuring every layer is well-seasoned.
• Cover While Baking: Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first part of baking helps steam the potatoes, cooking them through without drying them out. This is crucial for achieving that tender texture we all love.
• Finish with Broiling: Broiling at the end gives your scalloped potatoes that beautiful golden crust on top. Keep an eye on it, though—broiling can go from golden perfection to burnt quickly!

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Presentation is key when serving up these creamy delights! Here are some ideas on how to showcase your parmesan scalloped potatoes beautifully at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Chives: Thinly sliced chives provide a mild onion flavor that complements the creaminess of the potatoes.
• Fresh Sage Leaves: A few crispy sage leaves on top can add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites offer a nice crunch and balance out the creaminess of the scalloped potatoes. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until crispy.
• Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with slivered almonds create a lovely textural contrast and add a touch of brightness to your plate.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: For those wanting a lighter option alongside their rich scalloped potatoes, mashed cauliflower provides a fluffy texture with garlicky undertones that pair harmoniously.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the scalloped potatoes, offering a refreshing bite that enhances your Thanksgiving feast.

Enjoy making these parmesan scalloped potatoes a staple in your holiday menu—they’re sure to become a favorite among family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or holiday feasts. You can prepare them in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the day of your gathering.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the scalloped potatoes cool completely.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Remove foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes for a crispy top.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delicious Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other types of cheese in Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?

Yes! While parmesan cheese gives these scalloped potatoes their signature flavor, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano cheese for a different twist.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?

Infusing the cream with fresh herbs like thyme or sage adds depth to your dish. You can also stir in some sautéed onions or garlic for extra flavor!

Can I make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare your dish ahead and store it in the fridge or freezer, making it convenient for special occasions or busy weeknights.

What kind of potatoes should I use for scalloped potatoes?

Waxy potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red-skinned potatoes work best as they hold their shape during baking and result in creamy goodness throughout.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes finds its way into your kitchen and heart! It’s a delightful side that brings warmth and comfort to any table, especially during gatherings like Thanksgiving. Enjoy crafting this creamy masterpiece, and don’t hesitate to share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!