Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

A delicious side dish like Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes can elevate any meal, making it perfect for gatherings and special occasions. This recipe features layers of creamy potatoes infused with aromatic herbs and a generous amount of parmesan cheese. It’s a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with various main courses, ensuring it will be a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and melted cheese creates a rich and indulgent dish.
• Flavorful Infusion: Infusing the cream with herbs adds depth to every bite, making these scalloped potatoes irresistible.
• Visual Appeal: Layering the potatoes in a fanned pattern not only looks stunning but also allows for even cooking.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap ingredients based on availability or preference without sacrificing flavor.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for holidays and gatherings, this side dish is sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Preparation is key to achieving the best results. Gather your tools beforehand to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mandoline slicer
• Baking dish
• Medium saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandoline slicer: Allows you to effortlessly create uniform potato slices, ensuring even cooking.
• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish helps achieve a beautiful golden crust while keeping the potatoes tender inside.

Ingredients

For the Cream Mixture

• Heavy cream
• Butter
• Fresh herbs (such as thyme or sage)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base

For the Potatoes

• Yukon Gold potatoes (or red-skinned potatoes as a substitute)
• Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano as an alternative)

Optional Add-Ons

• Chopped parsley or chives for garnish

How to Make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to cook the potatoes thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese evenly across the bottom.

Step 3: Infuse the Cream Mixture

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, fresh herbs, salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base.
2. Heat over low until the butter melts and the mixture is warm with light wisps of smoke (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in all but 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese until well combined.

Step 4: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer, thinly slice each potato to about ⅛ inch thick. Gather them into loose stacks.

Step 5: Layer the Potatoes

1. Transfer the potato slices to your prepared baking dish at a diagonal.
2. Continue layering with remaining potato slices in a fanned pattern without overlapping too much.

Step 6: Bake the Dish

1. Pour the infused cream mixture evenly over the layered potatoes.
2. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
3. Afterward, uncover and bake an additional 20 minutes until cooked through.
4. Optionally, broil for about 4 minutes until golden brown on top if needed.

These Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are ready to serve! Enjoy this rich and creamy side dish at your next gathering or holiday feast!

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Parmesan scalloped potatoes are a versatile side dish that can elevate any meal. Their creamy texture and cheesy flavor make them a perfect companion for various main courses.

With Roasted Chicken

• Juicy roasted chicken pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy potatoes, creating a satisfying balance of flavors.

Alongside Grilled Lamb Chops

• The savory notes of grilled lamb chops complement the cheesy goodness of the scalloped potatoes beautifully.

As Part of a Holiday Spread

• Serve these scalloped potatoes during festive gatherings as they add elegance and comfort to your holiday table.

With Sautéed Green Beans

• Crisp-tender green beans provide a fresh contrast to the creamy potatoes, making for a well-rounded plate.

Accompanied by a Fresh Salad

• A light, refreshing salad balances the richness of the scalloped potatoes while adding color to your meal.

How to Perfect Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

To achieve the best results with your parmesan scalloped potatoes, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These waxy potatoes hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture that enhances the dish.

• Infuse Cream with Herbs: Heating cream with fresh herbs like thyme or sage adds an aromatic depth to your scalloped potatoes.

• Layer Carefully: Arrange potato slices in overlapping layers to ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation.

• Don’t Skip the Broiling Step: Broiling at the end creates a golden crust on top, adding both texture and visual appeal.

• Allow to Rest Before Serving: Letting the dish sit for 10 minutes after baking allows it to set, making it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Parmesan scalloped potatoes can be complemented by several delightful side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli – Tender broccoli roasted with garlic makes for a nutritious and flavorful addition.

2. Honey Glazed Carrots – Sweet carrots glazed with honey offer a lovely contrast to the rich cheesy flavor.

3. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted until crispy, Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that pairs well with creamy dishes.

4. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the scalloped potatoes.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide a hearty and healthy option alongside.

6. Herbed Quinoa – Fluffy quinoa seasoned with herbs adds protein while keeping your plate light and vibrant.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Boldly skip the prep: Not slicing the potatoes thin enough can lead to uneven cooking. Use a mandoline slicer for consistent thickness.
• Boldly ignore seasoning: Forgetting to season the cream mixture will result in bland potatoes. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Boldly rush the bake time: Removing them from the oven too soon can leave the potatoes undercooked. Ensure they are tender by checking with a fork before broiling.
• Boldly overlook the foil: Not covering the dish initially can cause the top to burn before the potatoes are done. Use greased foil to keep moisture in during baking.
• Boldly forget about leftovers: Leaving cooked scalloped potatoes out too long can spoil them. Always store leftovers promptly in the fridge.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

• Allow them to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months.

Reheating Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring as needed until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream if needed, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes.

How do I make my Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes creamier?

To enhance creaminess, consider adding more heavy cream or incorporating sour cream into your mix for extra richness.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Pecorino Romano is a great alternative if you want a slightly bolder flavor while still keeping it cheesy.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can work well too; just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh ones.

Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything up to baking and refrigerate overnight. Just add about 10-15 minutes to your baking time if starting cold.

What dishes pair well with Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?

These scalloped potatoes complement roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even a fresh salad, making them versatile for any meal.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes make an irresistible side dish that elevates any meal. Their creamy texture and rich flavor are sure to impress at gatherings or cozy dinners alike. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or cheeses for a personal touch!