Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for the perfect side dish to impress your family and friends this season, look no further than these delectable Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes. This creamy delight is a staple on my holiday table and for good reason. The combination of fresh herbs, rich cream, and loads of parmesan cheese creates a comforting dish that feels both indulgent and homey.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a festive Thanksgiving dinner or simply enjoying a busy weeknight meal, these scalloped potatoes are always a hit. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, making them an easy choice when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The rich flavors of parmesan and herbs make this dish irresistible to everyone at the table.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few steps, you can have this dish prepped and baking while you focus on other dishes.
• Flexible Options: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have available or your personal preferences!
• Make-Ahead Appeal: These scalloped potatoes can be assembled a day in advance, making your cooking easier when it counts.
• Show-Stopping Presentation: Layered potatoes baked to golden perfection look stunning in any serving dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes. You might already have many of these items in your pantry!

For the Potatoes

• Yukon Gold potatoes (or use red-skinned potatoes if you prefer)
• Heavy cream
• Unsalted butter
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh rosemary (or thyme/sage as substitutes)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base

Optional Add-Ons

• Chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes is how adaptable they are! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Switch up the cheese: Try using Pecorino Romano cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a unique twist.
• Change the potato type: Use red-skinned potatoes instead of Yukon Golds for added color and texture.
• Infuse with onion flavor: Substitute the Roasted Garlic Base with Better Than Bouillon Sautéed Onion Base or Roasted Turkey Base for another layer of flavor.

How to Make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F degrees. This ensures that your scalloped potatoes will bake evenly and turn perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter and sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese across the bottom. This adds flavor while also preventing sticking—nobody wants their delicious potatoes stuck to the pan!

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. Stir gently until the butter melts and you see just a few wisps of smoke—this means it’s ready! Mix in all but 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese until it’s smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer, thinly slice each potato to about ⅛” thick. Gather those lovely slices into loose stacks and place them into your prepared baking dish diagonally. Continue until all your potato slices are arranged beautifully without too much overlap; this helps them cook evenly!

Step 5: Pour on the Cream Mixture

Now it’s time to pour that delicious infused cream mixture over your stacked potatoes. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil—this keeps all that moisture in while baking.

Step 6: Bake Away!

Bake covered for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes. You want those potatoes tender and the cream thickened around them. If you desire an extra crispy top, pop them under the broiler for about four minutes until golden brown.

And there you have it! These Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or simply as a comforting addition to your weeknight meals. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Making the perfect Parmesan scalloped potatoes is all about the little details! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy and flavorful every time.

• Choose the right potato: Waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds hold their shape better and create a creamier texture, making them ideal for scalloped dishes.

• Use a mandoline slicer: This tool helps achieve uniform slices, ensuring even cooking and a beautifully layered presentation. Plus, it saves you time in the kitchen!

• Infuse your cream: Heating the cream with herbs and garlic base not only adds depth of flavor but also makes every bite irresistible. Don’t skip this step!

• Layer thoughtfully: Stacking the potato slices at a diagonal in the baking dish not only looks pretty but also promotes even cooking and prevents sogginess.

• Broil for crispiness: If you want that perfect golden top, broiling for a few minutes at the end gives you that delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy layers.

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Presentation matters when it comes to serving this delightful side dish. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience with Parmesan scalloped potatoes!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley or chives: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and a burst of freshness, balancing the richness of the cream.
• Additional grated parmesan: A light dusting of parmesan right before serving enhances flavor and creates an appealing look.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slightly bitter flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy potatoes, adding both texture and nutrition to your meal.
• Honey-glazed carrots: The sweetness of honey-glazed carrots complements the savory scalloped potatoes, creating a delightful contrast on your plate.
• Garlic green beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic provide a fresh crunch that balances out the rich potatoes perfectly.
• Cranberry sauce: A touch of tartness from homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce can brighten up your Thanksgiving spread and enhance every bite of those cheesy potatoes.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress your guests with delicious Parmesan scalloped potatoes! Enjoy your cooking adventure and happy Thanksgiving!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their creamy goodness without the last-minute rush. You can easily make them a day ahead or store leftovers for another meal.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your scalloped potatoes, make sure they are fully cooled before wrapping.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen scalloped potatoes in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• For best results, cover with foil to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes.

Can I use other types of cheese in Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?

Absolutely! While parmesan adds a lovely flavor, you can substitute pecorino romano or even a blend of your favorite cheeses for a unique twist.

How do I ensure my Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes don’t turn out watery?

To avoid watery scalloped potatoes, make sure to slice your potatoes thinly and allow the cream mixture to thicken by baking uncovered towards the end. This helps achieve that creamy texture without excess liquid.

Can I prepare Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes in advance?

Yes! These potatoes are ideal for make-ahead meals. You can assemble them a day ahead and bake them right before serving.

What is the best way to serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?

Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes make a delightful side dish for holiday meals, especially Thanksgiving dinner. Serve them alongside your favorite roasted vegetables or main courses for a balanced plate.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these delicious Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes! They bring warmth and comfort to any table, making special occasions even more memorable. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them on a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every creamy bite!