Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

A creamy potato side dish, Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion, especially Thanksgiving. This delectable recipe features thinly sliced potatoes layered with a rich, herb-infused cream and plenty of parmesan cheese. The result is a comforting dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses, making it a versatile choice for family gatherings and special celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious side dish that impresses everyone.
• Rich Flavor: Infusing cream with fresh herbs and parmesan cheese elevates the taste to new heights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with different cheeses or herbs to suit your preference or dietary needs.
• Beautiful Presentation: The shingled potatoes create an eye-catching display that’s perfect for festive occasions.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is loved by all ages, making it a safe choice for family meals and gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandoline slicer: This tool allows you to achieve perfectly thin potato slices quickly, ensuring even cooking throughout.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for heating the cream mixture evenly without scorching it, which is crucial for flavor development.
• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish retains heat well and provides an attractive presentation for serving.
• Aluminum foil: Covering the dish during baking helps steam the potatoes while preventing them from drying out.

Ingredients

For the Cream Mixture

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

For the Potatoes

• Yukon Gold potatoes (or red-skinned potatoes)

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 ensure it’s hot enough to cook the scalloped potatoes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter. Sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese on the bottom to create a flavorful base.

Step 3: Heat the Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat:
1. Combine heavy cream, butter, fresh herbs, salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base.
2. Stir until the butter melts and small wisps of steam appear—this should take about 5 minutes.
3. Mix 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 potato slices into loose stacks and arrange them diagonally in the prepared baking dish.
3. Continue layering until all potato slices are used, ensuring they fit snugly without overlapping too much.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Pour the infused cream mixture over the arranged potatoes. Tightly cover with greased aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

Step 6: Finish Baking Uncovered

After 45 minutes:
1. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes.
2. Check that the potatoes are cooked through and that the cream has thickened around the edges.
3. If desired, broil for about 4 minutes until the top becomes golden brown.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes as a standout side at your next meal!

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Parmesan scalloped potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs well with various main courses. Their creamy texture and rich flavor can elevate any meal, making them perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Pair with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers bring a sweet and savory balance to the richness of the scalloped potatoes.

Serve with Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken adds a light and smoky flavor that complements the creamy potatoes beautifully.

Accompany with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch, providing a wonderful contrast to the soft texture of parmesan scalloped potatoes.

Enjoy with Herb-Crusted Fish

• Herb-crusted fish, whether baked or grilled, offers a delicate protein option that enhances the overall dining experience without overpowering the potatoes.

Add a dollop of Sour Cream

• A spoonful of sour cream on top adds tanginess and creaminess, enriching each bite of the scalloped potatoes.

Garnish with Chopped Herbs

• Finishing your dish with fresh parsley or chives not only adds color but also infuses additional flavors that brighten up this comfort food classic.

How to Perfect Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Perfecting parmesan scalloped potatoes requires attention to detail in both technique and ingredients. Follow these tips for an impressive dish every time.

• Use a Mandoline Slicer: This tool helps you achieve uniformly thin potato slices, ensuring even cooking and a smooth texture.
• Infuse Cream Properly: Heat your cream mixture gently to allow flavors from herbs and garlic base to meld without boiling, which can affect the texture.
• Layering Technique: Arrange potato slices in overlapping layers for better flavor distribution and presentation—this creates beautiful shingled layers.
• Cover While Baking: Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil during the first part of baking. This traps steam and helps cook the potatoes through.
• Broil for Finish: If necessary, broil at the end for just a few minutes to develop a golden crust on top—watch carefully to prevent burning.
• Rest Before Serving: Let your scalloped potatoes rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Parmesan scalloped potatoes are versatile and can be paired with numerous side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic and olive oil add a vibrant pop of color and flavor.
2. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet honey-glazed carrots provide a sweet contrast that pairs perfectly with creamy potatoes.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus spears offer crunchiness and freshness alongside rich scalloped potatoes.
4. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunchiness and balances out the richness of the dish beautifully.
5. Baked Zucchini Fries: Crispy zucchini fries create an enjoyable texture contrast while being lighter than traditional fries.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze enhance flavors while adding depth to your meal.
7. Cauliflower Rice Pilaf: A low-carb alternative that brings grains’ heartiness without overwhelming other flavors on your plate.
8. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For those who love potatoes, these mashed versions offer creaminess while adding roasted garlic depth of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls is essential for making the best Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:

• Using the wrong potatoes – Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold are ideal for scalloped potatoes. Starchy potatoes can become mushy and fall apart.
• Not slicing evenly – Uneven potato slices lead to inconsistent cooking. Use a mandoline slicer for even thickness and perfect layering.
• Skipping the infusion step – Failing to infuse your cream with herbs can leave your dish lacking flavor. Take the time to heat the cream with seasonings for richer taste.
• Overcrowding the baking dish – Packing the potatoes too tightly prevents even cooking and may result in unevenly baked potatoes. Arrange them loosely in a single layer for best results.
• Not letting it rest before serving – Cutting into the dish too soon can result in a runny texture. Allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes after baking to set properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until hot and creamy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes:

Can I make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

You can prepare the dish ahead by assembling it without baking. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Bake just before serving for fresh results.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano cheese is a great alternative if you’re looking for something similar but with a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! Red-skinned potatoes work well as an alternative to Yukon Golds if you prefer their taste or texture.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal, especially during festive gatherings. The creamy texture combined with rich flavors makes them versatile enough to accompany various main dishes. Feel free to customize them with your favorite herbs or cheeses for a personal touch!