Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

A creamy side dish like Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes is sure to impress your guests at any gathering. This delightful recipe combines layers of tender potatoes with rich, cheesy goodness, making it a standout for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion. With its infusion of fresh herbs and generous parmesan cheese, this dish delivers both flavor and elegance. Perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts, these scalloped potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and parmesan creates a luxurious mouthfeel that elevates the simple potato to gourmet status.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this dish can be made by cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute ingredients based on availability or preference without compromising flavor; this recipe is adaptable!
• Great for Meal Prep: Assemble ahead of time and bake just before serving to save time on busy days.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Infusing cream with herbs ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness, making it a favorite at any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mandoline slicer
• Medium saucepan
• Baking dish
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandoline slicer: Allows you to achieve perfectly thin slices of potatoes quickly, ensuring even cooking.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for heating the cream mixture evenly without scorching.
• Baking dish: A sturdy dish that holds the layers of potatoes while allowing enough room for bubbling sauce.
• Aluminum foil: Helps trap steam while baking, ensuring the potatoes cook through perfectly.

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Ingredients

For the Cream Mixture

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

For the Potatoes

• Yukon Gold potatoes (or red-skinned potatoes)
• Grated parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano cheese)

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) to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

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

Step 3: Infuse the Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat:
1. Combine heavy cream, butter, thyme (or sage), salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base.
2. Heat until the butter melts and you see wisps of steam—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:
1. Thinly slice each potato to about ⅛-inch thick.
2. Gather slices into loose stacks and arrange them in the prepared baking dish diagonally. Fit them in a fanned pattern without overlapping too much.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the infused cream mixture over the arranged potatoes evenly.
2. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 6: Final Baking Steps

1. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 20 minutes until cooked through.
2. If necessary, broil for about 4 minutes until golden brown on top.

With these steps complete, your delicious Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes will be ready to serve! Enjoy this creamy delight as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Parmesan scalloped potatoes are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Their creamy texture and rich flavor make them a versatile accompaniment to various main dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Roasted Chicken

• A beautifully roasted chicken complements the creamy texture of scalloped potatoes, creating a satisfying meal.

Serve Alongside Grilled Vegetables

• Colorful grilled vegetables add freshness and balance to the richness of the potatoes, making for a well-rounded plate.

Accompany with a Crisp Green Salad

• A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty potatoes, perfect for balancing flavors.

Enjoy with Beef Stew

• The creamy scalloped potatoes pair wonderfully with the savory flavors of beef stew, making for a cozy and comforting dinner.

Team Up with Turkey Breast

• Whether it’s roasted or grilled, turkey breast offers a lean protein option that pairs seamlessly with the richness of parmesan scalloped potatoes.

Add a Side of Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread makes for an indulgent pairing, where the crunchiness complements the softness of the potatoes.

How to Perfect Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Perfecting parmesan scalloped potatoes requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish stands out.

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold their shape well and create a creamy texture when baked.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality parmesan cheese will elevate the flavor profile of your scalloped potatoes significantly.

• Infuse Your Cream: Gently heating your cream with herbs enhances its flavor, making each bite more delicious.

• Layer Evenly: Ensure potato slices are layered evenly in your baking dish for consistent cooking and texture throughout.

• Don’t Skip the Broil: Broiling at the end creates a golden crust that adds both texture and visual appeal to your dish.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve while maintaining its shape.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Parmesan scalloped potatoes are versatile enough to pair with numerous side dishes. Here are some excellent options that complement their creamy goodness.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli
   A simple yet flavorful addition that brings a nutrient-rich element alongside the rich scalloped potatoes.

2. Cauliflower Gratin
   This cheesy and creamy side mirrors the decadence of scalloped potatoes while adding variety in flavor and texture.

3. Honey Glazed Carrots
   Sweet glazed carrots provide a lovely contrast in taste that balances out the savory notes of your main dish.

4. Herbed Quinoa Salad
   A light salad featuring quinoa mixed with fresh herbs offers a refreshing taste that pairs nicely with rich sides.

5. Creamy Spinach
   This decadent side adds another layer of creaminess while infusing nutrients into your meal, complementing scalloped potatoes well.

6. Zucchini Fritters
   These crispy fritters provide a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with soft scalloped potatoes, enhancing your dining experience.

7. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with grains or vegetables make for an attractive and hearty addition to your plate, harmonizing flavors effectively.

8. Roasted Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned asparagus can brighten up your meal while providing a tender-crisp bite alongside creamy potato goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan scalloped potatoes, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the slicing technique: Not using a mandoline or sharp knife can lead to uneven potato slices, which affects cooking time and texture. Always slice your potatoes as thinly as possible for even cooking.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Packing the potatoes too tightly can prevent them from cooking evenly. Make sure to shingle them in a fanned pattern for the best results.
• Neglecting to infuse flavors: Simply pouring cream over the potatoes without infusing it with herbs and seasoning will result in a bland dish. Take the time to heat the cream with butter and spices to enhance flavor.
• Not covering during baking: Failing to cover the dish with foil initially can cause excess evaporation of moisture, leading to dry potatoes. Cover tightly for the first part of baking for creamy results.
• Ignoring doneness tests: Skipping checks on potato tenderness can lead to undercooked or overcooked results. Use a fork to test; they should be easily pierced when done.
• Forgetting garnishes: Serving without fresh herbs can make your dish look less appealing. Always consider adding a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives for color and freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• • Container: Use an airtight container for best results.

Freezing Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• • Container: Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.

Reheating Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have more queries about Parmesan scalloped potatoes, here are some common ones answered.

Can I make Parmesan scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and assemble but only bake them just before serving.

What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?

Yukon Golds work great, but red-skinned potatoes are also a delicious alternative if you prefer.

Can I substitute other cheeses?

Absolutely! Pecorino Romano cheese is an excellent substitute if you’re looking for something different than parmesan cheese.

How do I ensure my scalloped potatoes don’t turn out watery?

Be sure to layer your potatoes correctly and allow sufficient time for baking covered initially, which helps thicken the sauce.

Are there any herbs I can use instead of rosemary?

Thyme or fresh sage are wonderful alternatives that complement the dish well.

Final Thoughts

These Parmesan scalloped potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and perfect for any meal or celebration. They offer great flexibility—feel free to customize with different herbs or cheeses based on your taste preferences. We encourage you to try this delightful side dish at your next gathering!