Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that will steal the show at your next gathering, let me introduce you to my beloved Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes. This creamy, cheesy delight is a surefire hit on any table, especially during Thanksgiving. The combination of rich flavors—thanks to fresh herbs and loads of parmesan cheese—makes these potatoes a comforting addition that everyone will love.

What I adore about this recipe is its versatility. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, these scalloped potatoes are perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re easy to make! You’ll find that the process is simple, allowing you to focus on spending time with your loved ones rather than stressing in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-pleasing flavor: These potatoes are bursting with savory goodness and cheesy richness that everyone craves.
• Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip these up without breaking a sweat!
• Make-ahead option: Prepare them in advance, so you can enjoy the festivities without worry.
• Customizable ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs or cheeses to make it your own.
• Beautiful presentation: Layering the potatoes creates an eye-catching dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delicious Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes, gather some simple and wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 Topping

• Parmesan cheese

Optional Add-Ons

• Chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to personalize your Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes:

• Swap the cheese: Use Pecorino Romano instead of parmesan for a sharper flavor.
• Change the herbs: Try fresh sage or thyme instead of rosemary for a different twist.
• Use different potatoes: Red-skinned potatoes can offer a lovely color and texture variation.
• Experiment with bases: If you don’t have the roasted garlic base, opt for 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. This step ensures that your scalloped potatoes will cook evenly and get that perfect golden top.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter and sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese into it. This creates a lovely base layer that adds flavor and helps prevent sticking.

Step 3: Infuse the Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, herbs, salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base over low heat. Stir gently until the butter melts and you see wisps of steam—this infuses all those delightful flavors into the cream. Stir in all but 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese; this will thicken beautifully around the potatoes.

Step 4: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer (be careful!), slice each potato into thin rounds about ⅛” thick. Arranging them in diagonal stacks in your baking dish not only looks stunning but also ensures even cooking.

Step 5: Assemble Everything

Pour that luscious infused cream mixture over those beautiful potato layers. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil—this keeps everything nice and moist while baking!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake covered for 45 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes until cooked through and bubbly. If it needs extra love on top, broil for about 4 minutes until golden brown.

And there you have it! A delightful dish of Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes ready to impress at any meal. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Creating the perfect Parmesan scalloped potatoes is a delightful experience that even novice cooks can master with a few handy tips. Here are some suggestions to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time!

• Choose the right potatoes: Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold their shape well during cooking, ensuring a creamy texture without turning mushy. Their buttery flavor also complements the richness of the cheese.

• Slice evenly with a mandoline: Using a mandoline slicer allows you to achieve uniform thickness (around ⅛ inch) for each potato slice. This ensures even cooking and contributes to that beautiful layered effect.

• Infuse flavors in the cream: Heating the cream with herbs and Better Than Bouillon enhances the overall flavor profile of your dish. This step creates a rich, aromatic base that seeps into every layer of potatoes.

• Don’t skip the broiling step: Broiling at the end gives your scalloped potatoes that irresistible golden-brown crust. This adds not only visual appeal but also a delightful contrast in texture.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your scalloped potatoes to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps them firm up slightly, making it easier to serve neat portions without losing their shape.

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Presenting your Parmesan scalloped potatoes can enhance the dining experience and transform it into an impressive centerpiece for any meal. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delectable dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the creamy richness of the dish.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives provide a mild onion flavor that complements the cheesy layers beautifully.
• Grated Pecorino Romano: For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a light dusting of Pecorino Romano on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slightly bitter flavor contrasts perfectly with the creamy richness of scalloped potatoes, offering a delightful balance.
• Garlic green beans: These vibrant green beans sautéed with garlic add both color and crunch, enhancing your plate’s overall appeal.
• Cranberry sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce can cut through the richness of scalloped potatoes, providing a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Herb-roasted carrots: Sweet, tender carrots roasted with fresh herbs bring warmth and earthiness to your Thanksgiving spread.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Parmesan scalloped potatoes are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving table or any gathering! Enjoy sharing this comforting dish with your loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance, making your holiday cooking a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the baking dish tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, portion out individual servings before freezing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and reheat for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! While Yukon Golds are recommended for their creaminess, you can substitute with red-skinned potatoes without compromising flavor.

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

To achieve that luscious creaminess, make sure to infuse your heavy cream mixture with herbs and allow it to meld with the cheese before pouring it over the layered potatoes.

Can I make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! These scalloped potatoes can be prepared a day in advance. Just assemble everything and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What is the best way to serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?

Serve these scalloped potatoes as a side dish alongside your favorite proteins during family dinners or special occasions. They pair beautifully with roasted vegetables too!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes for your next gathering! This comforting dish is bound to impress your guests and create lasting memories around the dinner table. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!