Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that will wow your family and friends, these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are just what you need! This creamy, cheesy delight is perfect for Thanksgiving or any gathering where comfort food is a must. With layers of tender potatoes baked in a rich cream infused with fresh herbs and lots of parmesan cheese, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

What makes this dish so special is not only its delicious flavor but also how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up on busy weeknights or make it ahead for those family get-togethers. Trust me, once you serve these scalloped potatoes, there won’t be any leftovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of creamy potatoes and sharp parmesan creates a taste that everyone adores.
• Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you’ll have an impressive dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance, so the day of your event is stress-free and enjoyable.
• Customizable Options: Swap out ingredients easily to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes:

For the Potatoes

• Yukon Gold potatoes – about 2 pounds
• Heavy cream – 2 cups
• Unsalted butter – 1 tablespoon + 3 tablespoons (for greasing and mixing)
• Fresh rosemary (or substitute with thyme or fresh sage) – 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
• Grated parmesan cheese – about 1 ½ cups (plus more for sprinkling)
• Salt – 2 teaspoons (use 2 ½ teaspoons if not using roasted garlic base)
• Black pepper – to taste

For Flavoring

• Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base – 1 teaspoon (or substitute with other bases as suggested)

Optional Add-Ons

• Chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Here are some fun ways to put your twist on these scalloped potatoes:

• Swap the Potatoes: Use red-skinned potatoes instead of Yukon Golds for a different texture and flavor.
• Change the Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano cheese instead of parmesan for a sharper taste.
• Herb Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of rosemary, feel free to use thyme or fresh sage for added flavor.
• Add Some Veggies: Mix in thin slices of zucchini or mushrooms for an extra layer of deliciousness.

How to Make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your scalloped potatoes will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Grease the Baking Dish

Grease a baking dish with one tablespoon of butter and sprinkle about three tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese. This creates a flavorful base that helps prevent sticking while adding extra cheesiness!

Step 3: Infuse the Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream, remaining 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 five minutes. Stir in all but ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese to create a rich sauce.

Step 4: Slice the Potatoes

While the cream mixture is heating up, use a mandoline slicer to cut each potato into thin slices—about ⅛ inch thick. Gather these slices into loose stacks and arrange them diagonally in the prepared baking dish. The goal here is to create a beautiful presentation while ensuring even cooking.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the infused cream mixture over the arranged potatoes. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully while cooking the potatoes through.

Step 6: Finish Baking

After the initial baking time, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 20 minutes until cooked through. If needed, broil for about four minutes until everything is golden brown on top—this adds that delectable crispy finish we all love!

And there you have it! A gorgeous dish of Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes that’s sure to impress at any meal! Enjoy sharing this comforting side with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Creating the perfect Parmesan scalloped potatoes can be a breeze with just a few helpful tricks up your sleeve!

• Use a mandoline slicer: This tool allows for perfectly even slices of potatoes, ensuring they cook uniformly and absorb the creamy goodness evenly.

• Infuse flavors well: Gently heating the cream with herbs before mixing it with the cheese helps to release their essential oils, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

• Layer thoughtfully: When stacking your potato slices in the baking dish, try to keep them slightly fanned out but not overlapping too much. This allows for better cooking and an eye-catching presentation.

• Cover tightly with foil: Ensuring your dish is covered properly during the initial baking time helps steam the potatoes, resulting in tender bites while keeping the top layer from burning too soon.

• Broil for a crispy finish: A quick broil at the end adds that beautiful golden-brown crust. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Serving these creamy delights is all about presentation and pairing! They make a stunning centerpiece on any Thanksgiving table.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley or chives: These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a fresh taste that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the scalloped potatoes.
• Grated extra parmesan: A light sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan on top right after pulling them from the oven takes this dish to another level of cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slight bitterness complements the creamy potatoes beautifully, plus they add a nice crunch.
• Green bean almondine: The crisp texture of green beans sautéed with almonds provides a vibrant contrast alongside your scalloped potatoes.
• Stuffed acorn squash: This dish offers a lovely sweetness that balances well against the savory flavors of your potatoes.
• Creamy coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw gives a refreshing crunch that pairs pleasantly with the rich creaminess of scalloped potatoes, making each bite enjoyable.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Parmesan scalloped potatoes will not only shine as a side dish but also steal the show at your Thanksgiving gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance and store them, making it easy to enjoy this comforting dish anytime.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best quality, consume within this timeframe.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your scalloped potatoes, wrap the cooled dish tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped dish in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen scalloped potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
• If you prefer a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes:

Can I make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes without cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just make sure to adjust seasonings accordingly for flavor!

What type of potatoes are best for Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds work wonderfully as they hold their shape well during cooking. However, red-skinned potatoes are also a great alternative if you’re looking for something different!

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

Experimenting with herbs or using different cheese like Pecorino Romano can add unique flavors. You could also try adding sautéed onions or garlic for an extra punch!

Can I prepare Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! These scalloped potatoes can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes! They truly bring warmth and comfort to any meal, especially during special occasions like Thanksgiving. Feel free to get creative with your own twists on this recipe. Happy cooking, and may your table always be filled with good food and great company!