Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that brings everyone together, look no further than these delicious Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes. This creamy, cheesy delight has become a staple at our family gatherings, especially during Thanksgiving. There’s something magical about the way the layers of tender potatoes soak up the infused cream, making each bite melt in your mouth.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a big dinner or just looking to elevate a busy weeknight meal, these scalloped potatoes fit the bill perfectly. They are comforting, satisfying, and truly a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a handful of simple steps, you can whip up a dish that looks fancy yet is totally approachable.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will devour these cheesy potatoes; they make any meal feel special.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep these potatoes in advance, allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of fresh herbs and LOTS of parmesan cheese creates a rich taste that elevates this classic dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes shine. Each component plays an important role in creating that creamy goodness we all crave.

For the Potatoes

• Yukon Gold potatoes (or red-skinned potatoes)
• Heavy cream
• Unsalted butter

For the Seasoning

• Fresh rosemary (or thyme/sage)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base

For the Topping

• Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish

• Chopped parsley or chives

Variations

The beauty of Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variation ideas:

• Cheese swap: Try using Pecorino Romano instead of parmesan for a bolder flavor.
• Herb change: Use fresh thyme or sage if you prefer those flavors over rosemary.
• Potato alternative: Red-skinned potatoes work beautifully as a substitute for Yukon Golds.
• Broth boost: If you don’t have the roasted garlic base, consider Better Than Bouillon Sautéed Onion Base for added depth.

How to Make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Getting your oven ready first ensures that your potatoes will cook evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter and sprinkle approximately 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese inside. This step not only prevents sticking but also adds extra flavor right from the start!

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 the butter melts and everything is well combined—about 5 minutes should do it! This infused cream is what gives your potatoes their rich flavor.

Step 4: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer, thinly slice each potato to about ⅛” thick. Gathering them into loose stacks makes it easier to arrange them beautifully in the baking dish. Layering them diagonally in a fanned pattern creates an attractive presentation while ensuring even cooking.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Pour that luscious cream mixture over your carefully arranged potatoes. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Covering helps steam the potatoes while they cook so they become tender and delicious!

Step 6: Uncover and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes until cooked through and bubbling around the edges. If you want that gorgeous golden top, broil for an additional 4 minutes—just keep an eye on it!

And there you have it—perfectly creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes! Serve this delightful dish at your next gathering or cozy dinner at home; I’m sure it will become a favorite just like it has in my family!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Creating the perfect parmesan scalloped potatoes is all about attention to detail, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use a mandoline slicer: This tool ensures that your potato slices are uniform in thickness, which helps them cook evenly and results in that creamy texture everyone loves.

• Infuse the cream properly: Heating the cream with herbs and garlic base brings out their flavors, making your scalloped potatoes richer and more aromatic. Don’t rush this step; let those flavors meld!

• Layer thoughtfully: Instead of just piling the potatoes in the dish, shingle them at a diagonal for a beautiful presentation. This not only looks stunning but also allows the cream to coat every slice perfectly.

• Don’t skip the broil: Broiling at the end gives your scalloped potatoes a delightful golden-brown crust. It adds texture and visual appeal, making it hard for anyone to resist!

• Let it rest: Allowing your dish to sit for about 10 minutes after baking lets the creamy sauce thicken further. This makes serving easier and enhances the overall flavor.

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

When it comes to serving parmesan scalloped potatoes, presentation is key! This delicious side dish can be served straight from the oven or plated elegantly to impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish.

• Chives: Finely chopped chives provide a subtle oniony note and a beautiful pop of color on top of your creamy potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy, caramelized sprouts add a delightful contrast in texture and taste, balancing out the richness of the scalloped potatoes.

• Honey-glazed carrots: Sweet and buttery honey-glazed carrots bring a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like scalloped potatoes.

• Garlic green beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a crisp, fresh element that brightens up your plate while complementing the creamy flavors.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with citrus dressing provides a refreshing side that contrasts beautifully against the rich potatoes, ensuring a well-rounded meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions in hand, you’re ready to make parmesan scalloped potatoes that will be the highlight of any gathering! Enjoy this comforting dish as part of your Thanksgiving feast or any special occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are not just a delicious side dish; they’re also perfect for meal prep! Preparing them in advance can save you time on busy days, especially during the holiday season.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely.
• Cut into portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy leftovers.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through. For crispy edges, uncover for the last 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes:

Can I make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes without cream?

Yes! You can substitute cream with a combination of milk and a little cornstarch for thickening. This will give you a lighter version while still maintaining a creamy texture.

How do I ensure my Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes turn out creamy?

To achieve that luscious creaminess, be sure to infuse your cream with herbs and seasonings as described in the recipe. Also, don’t skimp on the parmesan cheese—it’s key!

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Yukon Golds are recommended for their waxy texture, red-skinned potatoes work beautifully too. Just remember to slice them thinly for even cooking!

How long do Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes take to cook?

The total cooking time is about 1 hour and 45 minutes, plus an additional 20 minutes uncovered to achieve that beautiful golden top.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes finds its way onto your holiday table! It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any gathering. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you. Happy cooking!