Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that will steal the show at your next gathering, let me introduce you to my beloved Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes. This creamy delight is a staple in my kitchen, especially during the holiday season. The blend of fresh herbs and lots of parmesan cheese creates a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with everything from roasted turkey to grilled veggies. Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight when you just want something cozy and delicious.

These potatoes have a special place in my heart because they remind me of family gatherings filled with laughter and love. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just an ordinary Sunday dinner, these scalloped potatoes are always a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a gourmet side dish ready to impress your guests.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves creamy, cheesy potatoes; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this dish in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Flavor: The infusion of fresh herbs and parmesan cheese makes each bite memorable.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or even as a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes:

For the Potatoes

• Yukon Gold potatoes (or red-skinned potatoes if preferred)
• Heavy cream
• Unsalted butter
• Fresh rosemary (or thyme/sage if you’d like)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base

For the Cheese Layer

• Grated parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences:

• Herb Swap: Use fresh thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Change: Try using Pecorino Romano instead of parmesan for a sharper taste.
• Potato Variety: Red-skinned potatoes can add a pop of color and slightly different texture.
• Base Alternatives: Substitute with Better Than Bouillon Sautéed Onion Base or Roasted Turkey Base for a unique twist.

How to Make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your potatoes will cook evenly and helps achieve that perfect golden top.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease your baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter, then sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese over it. This step not only prevents sticking but also adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness at the bottom!

Step 3: Infuse the Cream

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 you see wisps of smoke—this takes about 5 minutes. Stir in all but 1/4 cup of the grated parmesan cheese. Infusing the cream with these flavors is key for making every bite utterly delicious.

Step 4: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer, thinly slice each potato to about ⅛” thick. Gather them into loose stacks and transfer them diagonally into your prepared baking dish without overlapping too much. This not only looks beautiful but helps ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Combine Layers

Pour that luscious infused cream mixture over the stacked potatoes. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Covering it helps steam the potatoes until tender while allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Bake & Broil

After 45 minutes, uncover the dish and continue baking for another 20 minutes until the potatoes are cooked through and the cream thickens around the edges. If you’d like an extra crispy top, broil for about 4 minutes until it turns golden brown; keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

And there you have it! A warm dish filled with creamy goodness that’s sure to be loved by all at your table. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Making the perfect Parmesan scalloped potatoes is all about attention to detail and a few little tricks. Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish!

• Use a mandoline for even slices: This tool helps you achieve consistent thickness, ensuring that all potato slices cook evenly and create that luscious creamy texture.

• Infuse the cream properly: Heating the cream with herbs allows their flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Don’t rush this step; let it simmer gently.

• Layer thoughtfully: Taking the time to shingle the potato slices creates an appealing presentation and helps them cook uniformly, making sure every bite is packed with flavor.

• Cover tightly while baking: Using greased aluminum foil prevents moisture loss during the initial bake, ensuring your potatoes become tender without drying out.

• Broil for a crispy finish: A quick broil at the end adds an irresistible golden crust on top that contrasts perfectly with the creamy layers underneath.

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Parmesan scalloped potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re a statement! With their creamy texture and cheesy goodness, they can steal the show at any meal. Here’s how you can present this delightful dish to make it even more enticing.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives provide a mild onion flavor and a beautiful green contrast on top of your scalloped potatoes.
• Fresh thyme leaves: A few thyme leaves scattered over the top enhance both presentation and flavor, tying in with the herb-infused cream.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slight bitterness balances out the creaminess of the potatoes and adds a nice crunch when roasted until golden brown.
• Garlic green beans: Sautéed with olive oil and garlic, these green beans bring brightness and freshness to your plate, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Cranberry sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce is perfect for cutting through the richness of scalloped potatoes, offering a refreshing contrast.
• Mixed greens salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this salad provides crispness and acidity that complements the creamy texture of your potatoes beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Parmesan scalloped potatoes will surely be a hit at your Thanksgiving table or any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them ahead of time, making your holiday or weeknight dinner stress-free.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you want to maintain the creamy texture, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely first.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to label the containers with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, adding a splash of cream if they seem dry.
• Make sure to cover them while reheating to keep moisture in!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes that might help you out.

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

Absolutely! Pecorino Romano cheese is a great alternative if you’re looking for something different. It adds a nice sharp flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

How long do Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these delicious potatoes will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Perfect for leftovers!

Can I make these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day or two before serving and simply bake them when ready. This makes them an excellent choice for meal prepping!

What type of potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red-skinned potatoes work best due to their creamy texture when baked. They hold up well and create that lovely shingled look.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes a try! They truly are a delightful addition to any meal, especially during special occasions like Thanksgiving. The creamy texture combined with that rich parmesan flavor is sure to win over your guests (and your taste buds!). Enjoy making this recipe, and may it bring warmth and joy to your table!