Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that will steal the spotlight at your next gathering, look no further than these creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes! This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my family for years, and I can guarantee it will be a hit at your table too. The rich, cheesy layers of potatoes are infused with aromatic herbs and just the right amount of seasoning, making every bite a delightful experience.

Perfect for busy weeknights or festive celebrations, these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. You can whip them up ahead of time and pop them in the oven right before serving—talk about a stress-free way to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy goodness: The combination of heavy cream and parmesan cheese creates a luxurious texture that’s simply irresistible.
• Simple preparation: With just a few steps, you’ll have a stunning side dish that feels gourmet without all the fuss.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors of these scalloped potatoes, making them perfect for any gathering.
• Versatile options: You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite herbs or cheese to make it uniquely yours.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and bake when you’re ready—ideal for busy holidays!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes requires simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Potatoes

• Yukon Gold potatoes (or substitute with red-skinned potatoes)
• Heavy cream
• Unsalted butter
• Fresh rosemary (or substitute with thyme or sage)

For the Cheese Sauce

• Parmesan cheese (or substitute with Pecorino Romano)
• Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base
• Salt
• Black pepper

Optional Garnish

• Chopped parsley or chives

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Herb swap: Use fresh thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Cheesy twist: Substitute half of the parmesan with pecorino romano for an extra kick of flavor.
• Potato variety: Try red-skinned potatoes if you want a pop of color and slightly sweeter taste.
• Broth boost: Use Better Than Bouillon Sautéed Onion Base or Roasted Turkey Base instead of roasted garlic for a unique twist.

How to Make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This step is important because it ensures that your scalloped potatoes cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown crust on top.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease your baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter and sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese inside. This adds flavor and helps prevent sticking—trust me, you want those cheesy edges!

Step 3: Infuse the Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the heavy cream, remaining butter, fresh herbs, salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base. Stir gently until everything is melted and combined—this will create a deliciously infused sauce that brings life to our potatoes.

Step 4: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer, thinly slice each potato to about ⅛” thick. Gather them into loose stacks and arrange them diagonally in the prepared baking dish in a fanned pattern. This not only looks beautiful but also ensures even cooking throughout.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the infused cream mixture evenly over the layered potatoes. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. This steaming process helps soften the potatoes perfectly!

Step 6: Finish It Off

After 45 minutes, uncover your dish and bake for another 20 minutes until the cream thickens around the edges and the potatoes are tender. If you want an extra crispy top, broil for about 4 minutes until golden brown.

And there you have it! Your beautiful Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are ready to dazzle everyone at your table. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Creating the perfect Parmesan scalloped potatoes is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious.

• Choose the right potatoes: Using waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold ensures that the slices hold their shape and absorb the creamy mixture beautifully, giving you a rich texture.

• Infuse flavors well: Heating your cream and butter with herbs and seasoning allows those flavors to permeate the dish. This step enhances the overall taste, making each bite more flavorful.

• Slice evenly: Utilizing a mandoline slicer helps achieve uniformly thin potato slices, which cooks them evenly and contributes to a lovely layered appearance in your finished dish.

• Don’t rush the baking process: Allowing time for the potatoes to bake covered before uncovering them helps with even cooking. This method ensures that they become tender without drying out.

• Broil for extra crispiness: A quick broil at the end adds a delightful golden-brown crust on top of the scalloped potatoes, providing a pleasing contrast to the creamy layers beneath.

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

This creamy delight makes for an eye-catching side dish that can elevate any meal. When serving Parmesan scalloped potatoes, consider how to enhance their presentation and flavor profile.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives provide a mild onion flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese.
• Additional parmesan: A light dusting of freshly grated parmesan just before serving can enhance both flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts balances nicely with the creaminess of scalloped potatoes, creating a harmonious plate.
• Garlic green beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic add a crunchy texture and vibrant color, making them an excellent companion for this rich dish.
• Herb-crusted chicken: Pairing these scalloped potatoes with herb-crusted chicken brings in protein while complementing the flavors with added herbs.
• Cranberry sauce: A small serving of cranberry sauce offers a sweet-tart contrast that brightens up every bite of your Thanksgiving feast.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Parmesan scalloped potatoes are sure to become a highlight at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeks or holiday gatherings. You can prepare it ahead of time, store it properly, and still enjoy its creamy goodness later!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• For best quality, use within 2-3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through (about 20-30 minutes).
• If reheating from frozen, allow to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming.

FAQs

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

Can I make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes without dairy?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk and use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

How do I know when my Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are done?

The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the cream mixture should be thickened around the edges. A golden-brown top is a great indicator that they are ready to enjoy!

What kind of potatoes are best for Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red-skinned potatoes work best because they hold their shape and create a creamy texture when baked.

Can I use other cheeses besides Parmesan in scalloped potatoes?

Absolutely! Pecorino Romano is a great alternative. You can experiment with other cheeses too, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor profile slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes! This dish not only brings comfort to your holiday table but also creates cherished memories with family and friends. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s truly special! Happy cooking!