Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that will steal the show at your next gathering, look no further than these delightful Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes. This creamy, cheesy masterpiece is not just a side; it’s a comforting hug for your taste buds. I’ve cherished this recipe for years, and every time I serve it, I’m met with smiles and compliments. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family feast, these potatoes are sure to impress.

What makes this dish even more special is how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a little love, you can create something extraordinary. The combination of fresh herbs and rich parmesan cheese elevates the flavor to new heights, making it perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves creamy potatoes! This dish brings comfort and joy to any table.
• Easy preparation: With just a few steps, you’ll have a stunning side dish ready in no time.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep these scalloped potatoes in advance, allowing you to enjoy your gathering without being stuck in the kitchen.
• Flavorful depth: Infusing the cream with fresh herbs adds layers of taste that elevate this simple dish to something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! These staples come together beautifully in this delightful dish.

For the Cream Mixture

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or thyme/sage if you prefer)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base

For the Potatoes

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (or red-skinned potatoes)

Toppings

• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (you can substitute with Pecorino Romano)

Optional Garnish

• Chopped parsley or chives

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Herb swap: Try using thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese change: Substitute parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
• Potato swap: Use red-skinned potatoes instead of Yukon Golds for extra color and texture.
• Base switch: If you don’t have the roasted garlic base, try Better Than Bouillon Sautéed Onion Base instead.

How to Make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Greasing your baking dish with butter will not only help prevent sticking but also add extra flavor. Sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese at the bottom—this creates a delicious crust as it bakes!

Step 2: Create the Creamy Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the heavy cream, butter, herbs, salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base. Stir occasionally until the butter melts and everything is well blended—this should take about 5 minutes. It’s important not to rush this step; gently heating allows those flavors to infuse together beautifully.

Step 3: Slice Those Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer (or your trusty knife), slice each potato into thin rounds about ⅛” thick. The thinner they are, the more tender they’ll become while baking! Stack them loosely and arrange them diagonally in your prepared baking dish. This shingled presentation not only looks gorgeous but ensures even cooking.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour that luscious cream mixture over the arranged potatoes—making sure they’re all coated well! Then cover tightly with greased aluminum foil; this helps steam them perfectly as they bake.

Step 5: Bake Until Tender

Pop your baking dish into the oven and bake for 45 minutes under foil. After that time has passed, uncover it and let it bake for another 20 minutes until golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges. If you’d like an extra crispy top, broil it for about 4 minutes—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Now you’re ready to serve up these incredible Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes! They’re sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving table or any meal you choose to share them at. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Making the perfect Parmesan scalloped potatoes is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy, cheesy, and utterly delectable!

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme add vibrant flavor to your cream mixture. They infuse the dish with aromatic notes that elevate the overall taste experience.

• Don’t Skip the Mandoline: Slicing your potatoes with a mandoline ensures even thickness. This helps them cook uniformly, resulting in perfectly tender layers throughout the dish.

• Layer Carefully: When stacking the potato slices in the baking dish, avoid overlapping too much. This allows for better heat circulation and ensures each slice absorbs that delicious infused cream.

• Broil for Extra Crunch: If you want an irresistible golden crust on top, broil the scalloped potatoes for a few minutes before serving. It adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy layers beneath.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together beautifully. This small step will give you a more cohesive dish when serving.

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Serving your Parmesan scalloped potatoes beautifully can enhance not only their flavor but also their visual appeal on your Thanksgiving table. Here are some creative ideas to present this comforting side dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances out the richness of the cheese and cream.
• Chives: Thinly sliced chives provide a mild onion flavor and an elegant touch that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crisp-tender Brussels sprouts tossed with olive oil and sea salt make an excellent contrast to the creamy scalloped potatoes, adding both texture and nutrition.

• Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet maple-glazed carrots offer a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory dishes like scalloped potatoes, making every bite a harmonious experience.

• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic add brightness and crunch to your plate, balancing out the richness of the potatoes while providing vibrant color.

• Herb-Crusted Chicken: For those looking to complete their meal with protein, herb-crusted chicken can be a great addition. The herbs will tie in nicely with those used in the scalloped potatoes, creating a cohesive flavor profile across your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Parmesan scalloped potatoes are sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Parmesan scalloped potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, creamy side dish without the last-minute rush. You can prepare them ahead of time and store them efficiently, making your Thanksgiving dinner even more enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the dish up until baking, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• To bake from frozen, add an additional 30 minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with aluminum foil and reheat in the oven for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Parmesan scalloped potatoes.

Can I make Parmesan scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for convenience. Just follow the storing and reheating instructions above for best results.

What can I substitute if I don’t have parmesan cheese?

If you’re out of parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative that still offers a rich flavor. You can also try nutritional yeast for a vegan option!

How do I ensure my Parmesan scalloped potatoes don’t become mushy?

Using waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold helps maintain their structure. Also, be sure not to overbake them—check for doneness after covering and baking as directed.

Can I use different herbs in my Parmesan scalloped potatoes?

Yes! Feel free to swap rosemary with thyme or fresh sage based on your preference. Each herb brings its unique flavor profile that complements the creaminess beautifully.

How do I achieve a golden brown top on my Parmesan scalloped potatoes?

Broiling them for a few minutes at the end of baking will give you that lovely golden crust. Just watch closely so they don’t burn!

Final Thoughts

These Parmesan scalloped potatoes truly shine as a cozy side dish that everyone will love. The combination of creamy texture, rich flavors, and aromatic herbs makes it stand out on any dining table. I hope you find joy in preparing this recipe as much as I do! Enjoy every bite and share it with loved ones—after all, food is best when shared! Happy cooking!