Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that will steal the show at your next gathering, look no further than these delicious Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you. The creamy layers of tender potatoes infused with aromatic herbs and rich parmesan cheese make it an irresistible addition to any meal, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast.

What makes these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes truly special is their simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, they’re perfect for family gatherings, as everyone will be reaching for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this creamy delight in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Who doesn’t love cheesy potatoes? This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Flavor: Infusing the cream with fresh herbs takes this classic comfort food to the next level.
• Beautiful Presentation: The layered look of the potatoes makes for an impressive centerpiece on your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create the ultimate side dish. Here’s what you’ll need for your Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes:

For the Dish

• Yukon Gold potatoes – about 2 pounds
• Heavy cream – 2 cups
• Unsalted butter – 3 tablespoons
• Grated parmesan cheese – 1 ¾ cups (plus more for sprinkling)
• Fresh rosemary or other herbs – 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
• Salt – 2 teaspoons (or adjust if omitting garlic base)
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
• Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base – 1 tablespoon

Optional Add-Ons

• Chopped parsley or chives – for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility! Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the potatoes: Try using red-skinned potatoes instead of Yukon Golds for a different flavor and texture.
• Change up the herbs: Use thyme or fresh sage if you prefer those flavors over rosemary.
• Cheese alternatives: Substitute pecorino Romano cheese for an extra kick of flavor.
• Different bases: If you don’t have roasted garlic base, consider using Better Than Bouillon Sautéed Onion Base or Roasted Turkey Base.

How to Make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This seems simple, but having your oven ready ensures that everything cooks evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter and sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese on top. This not only prevents sticking but also adds extra flavor right at the bottom.

Step 3: Infuse the Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream, butter, herbs, salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base. Stir gently until everything is melted and well mixed—this should take around 5 minutes. The infusion of herbs into the cream is crucial as it brings out all those lovely flavors in every bite.

Step 4: Slice Your Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer, thinly slice each potato to about ⅛ inch thick. Gather these slices into loose stacks and arrange them diagonally in your prepared baking dish. This shingled pattern not only looks beautiful but also helps them cook evenly!

Step 5: Pour Over Cream Mixture and Bake

Pour that creamy mixture over the arranged potatoes. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes. This initial baking phase allows the potatoes to soften and absorb all that delicious flavor.

Step 6: Uncover and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes until cooked through and bubbly. If you’d like a golden-brown finish on top, broil for about 4 minutes! Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn; we want perfectly browned edges!

And there you have it—your very own creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes ready to impress! Enjoy every cheesy bite with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Creating the perfect parmesan scalloped potatoes is all about technique and attention to detail, so here are some pro tips to elevate your dish!

• Use a mandoline slicer: Slicing your potatoes with a mandoline ensures uniform thickness, allowing for even cooking and a beautifully layered presentation.

• Infuse flavor into the cream: Heating the cream with herbs and seasonings before pouring it over the potatoes enhances the overall taste. This step ensures that every bite is packed with delicious flavor.

• Layer properly: When stacking the potato slices, arrange them in a fanned pattern without overcrowding. This not only looks appealing but also helps with even cooking and prevents sogginess.

• Don’t skip broiling: Broiling at the end gives your scalloped potatoes that irresistible golden-brown crust. It adds texture and visual appeal, making your dish even more tempting!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your scalloped potatoes to sit for about 10 minutes after baking lets the cream mixture thicken further. This way, you’ll get perfectly portioned servings without it falling apart.

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Parmesan scalloped potatoes make a stunning centerpiece on any dinner table, especially during festive occasions like Thanksgiving. Here are some creative ways to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness that brightens the rich flavors of the dish.
• Chopped chives: Offering a mild onion flavor, chives complement the creamy potatoes beautifully while adding visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These caramelized sprouts bring a nutty flavor and crispy texture that balances out the creaminess of the potatoes.
• Maple-glazed carrots: Sweet and crunchy, maple-glazed carrots provide a delightful contrast to savory dishes, enhancing your holiday spread.
• Green bean almondine: A classic side full of bright green beans and toasted almonds that add crunch—a refreshing complement to rich scalloped potatoes.
• Cranberry sauce: For a tangy kick, serve cranberry sauce alongside these potatoes. It provides acidity that cuts through the richness, making every bite more enjoyable.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your parmesan scalloped potatoes will surely be a hit at your next gathering! Enjoy preparing this comforting dish and watch as it becomes a cherished favorite among your family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Parmesan scalloped potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on busy days. Here’s how to store and enjoy leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftover scalloped potatoes to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool completely, then cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, slice the potatoes before freezing for easier portioning later.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Cover with foil if you want to prevent excess browning.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Parmesan scalloped potatoes that might help you as you prepare this delicious dish!

Can I use different types of cheese for Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?

Absolutely! While parmesan adds a delightful flavor, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a slightly sharper taste. Just ensure it melts well!

How do I make my Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes healthier?

To lighten this dish, consider using a low-fat cream or milk alternative. You can also reduce the amount of cheese while still maintaining great flavor by infusing your cream with herbs.

Can I prepare Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can assemble it a day in advance and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?

These scalloped potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad. They make a fantastic side dish for any meal!

How do I avoid watery scalloped potatoes?

Make sure to slice your potatoes thinly and allow excess moisture to evaporate during cooking. The infused cream mixture should help create that creamy texture without being too runny.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Parmesan scalloped potatoes enchants your Thanksgiving table as it has mine! This comforting side dish not only offers warmth and richness but also allows you to get creative with flavors and presentations. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations! Happy cooking!