Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, look no further than these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes. This creamy potato side dish has become a staple in my home, especially during Thanksgiving. The rich flavors of fresh herbs and generous amounts of parmesan cheese meld beautifully together, creating a comforting experience with every bite. Plus, they’re perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and the ability to impress. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a dish that looks stunning and tastes even better. Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With minimal prep time, you can whip this up quickly and get back to enjoying your evening!
• Family-friendly appeal: Who doesn’t love cheesy potatoes? They are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep these scalloped potatoes earlier in the day, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones when it’s time to eat.
• Delicious flavor: The infusion of herbs and garlic creates layers of flavor that elevate these potatoes to comfort food heaven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes. These are items you might already have on hand or can easily find at your local grocery store.

For the Potatoes

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

For the Cheese Mixture

• Grated parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)

Optional Add-Ons

• Chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients based on what you have available or your personal preferences.

• Herb swaps: Use fresh thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese alternatives: Swap out parmesan for Pecorino Romano if you’re looking for a sharper taste.
• Potato variety: Red-skinned potatoes can add color and sweetness if you want to mix things up.
• Flavor boost: Try using Better Than Bouillon Sautéed Onion Base or Roasted Turkey Base instead of the roasted garlic base for an extra kick!

How to Make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the scalloped potatoes cook evenly and achieve that lovely golden-brown top we all crave.

Step 2: Grease Your Baking Dish

Take a baking dish and grease it with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Then sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese into the dish. This not only adds flavor but helps prevent sticking while creating a delicious crust.

Step 3: Infuse the Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream, remaining butter, fresh herbs, salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base. Heat gently until the butter melts and everything is well blended—this should take about 5 minutes. Stir in all but 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese. The infused cream will bring amazing flavors throughout your dish.

Step 4: Slice Your Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer set to about ⅛” thick, slice each potato thinly. Gather them into loose stacks and arrange them diagonally in your prepared baking dish. Create a fanned pattern without overlapping too much so every layer gets that creamy goodness!

Step 5: Pour Over Cream Mixture

Once your potato stacks are arranged nicely in the baking dish, pour that delicious cream mixture evenly over them. Then cover tightly with greased aluminum foil to keep all those flavors trapped inside as they bake.

Step 6: Bake Until Tender

Bake in your preheated oven for 45 minutes. After that time has passed, uncover and bake for another 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cream thickens around the edges. If necessary, broil for about 4 minutes at the end until the top is beautifully golden brown.

Now you’re ready to serve up these delightful Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

These parmesan scalloped potatoes are sure to impress, and with a few expert tips, you can elevate this dish even further!

• Use a mandoline slicer – Slicing your potatoes uniformly ensures even cooking and a beautifully layered presentation. A mandoline makes this process quick and easy.

• Infuse the cream properly – Heating the cream with the herbs and garlic base not only enhances the flavor but also helps the cheese melt seamlessly into the sauce. This results in a rich, creamy texture that complements the potatoes perfectly.

• Let it rest before serving – Allowing your scalloped potatoes to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps the dish set up nicely, making it easier to serve and enjoy without falling apart.

• Experiment with cheeses – Don’t hesitate to mix in different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Gruyere for a unique twist. Each cheese brings its own character that can elevate your dish.

• Adjust seasoning to taste – Taste your cream mixture before pouring it over the potatoes. If you love bold flavors, don’t hesitate to add more salt or herbs according to your preference!

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

When it comes to presenting your parmesan scalloped potatoes, think of creating a warm and inviting atmosphere at your table. The creamy layers of this dish make it perfect for sharing, so consider serving it in the baking dish for a rustic appeal.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.
• Chives – Finely chopped chives offer a mild onion flavor that complements the creamy potatoes beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Green Beans – Crisp-tender green beans tossed in olive oil and garlic provide a vibrant contrast to the rich scalloped potatoes.
• Honey-Glazed Carrots – Sweet, tender carrots drizzled with honey bring an earthy sweetness that balances out the creaminess of the potatoes.
• Cranberry Sauce – A tangy cranberry sauce offers a delightful contrast to the savory notes of the scalloped potatoes, enhancing every bite.
• Simple Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with lemon vinaigrette serves as a refreshing palate cleanser amidst the richness of your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your parmesan scalloped potatoes will be an unforgettable part of your Thanksgiving feast! Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are not just a delicious addition to your Thanksgiving table; they also shine for meal prep! You can easily prepare them in advance, making your holiday cooking a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool down entirely.
• Cut into portions and wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen scalloped potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
• For a crispy top, uncover the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking.

FAQs

Got questions about these delicious Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes? We’ve got you covered!

Can I make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them right before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

What type of potatoes work best for Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red-skinned potatoes are ideal for this recipe. Their creamy texture holds up well during baking and creates that perfect comfort food experience.

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

To elevate the flavor, try infusing the cream with fresh herbs such as thyme or sage. Adding more parmesan cheese will also give it a delightful cheesy richness!

Can I use a different cheese instead of parmesan in my scalloped potatoes?

Yes! You can substitute Pecorino Romano cheese for an equally delicious option. It will add a unique tangy flavor while still keeping that creamy goodness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes as much as I do! They truly bring comfort and warmth to any gathering, especially during Thanksgiving. With their creamy texture and rich flavor profile, they’re sure to become a beloved staple at your table. Happy cooking and enjoy every cheesy bite!