Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that is both comforting and elegant, then these Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are just what you need! Perfectly creamy and bursting with flavor, they make an appearance at every family gathering and holiday feast. This recipe is special to me because it brings everyone together; there’s something about sharing warm, cheesy potatoes that sparks joy around the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive Thanksgiving dinner, this dish never fails to impress!

With layers of thinly sliced potatoes enveloped in a rich, herb-infused cream, these scalloped potatoes are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Everyone will be reaching for seconds (or thirds)! Plus, they’re easy enough to prepare ahead of time so that you can enjoy more moments with your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious side dish without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will devour these creamy potatoes, making it a hit at every meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble the dish in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—perfect for busy days!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs and rich parmesan cheese creates a taste sensation that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The shingled layers of potatoes look stunning on any table setting!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need to create these mouthwatering Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes!

For the Potatoes:

• Yukon Gold potatoes (about 2 pounds)
• Heavy cream (2 cups)
• Butter (3 tablespoons)
• Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped) or substitute with thyme or fresh sage
• Salt (2 teaspoons)
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
• Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base (1 tablespoon)

For Assembly:

• Grated parmesan cheese (1 cup plus 3 tablespoons for dusting)

Optional Add-Ons:

• Chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Use Different Potatoes: Swap out Yukon Golds for red-skinned potatoes for a slightly different flavor and color.
• Change Up the Cheese: If parmesan isn’t your favorite, Pecorino Romano cheese works wonderfully as an alternative.
• Herb Substitutions: Don’t have rosemary? Thyme or fresh sage will add their unique flavors beautifully.
• Flavor Boosters: Try adding some sautéed onions or garlic in the cream mixture for an extra depth of flavor.

How to Make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your scalloped potatoes cook evenly and develop that lovely golden crust on top.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter. Sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese at the bottom. This not only prevents sticking but also adds flavor right from the start.

Step 3: Infuse Your Cream

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream, butter, fresh herbs, salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base. Stir gently until the butter melts and you see wisps of steam—this means your flavors are melding together nicely. Remove from heat and stir in all but 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Slice Those Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer set to about ⅛” thick, slice each potato as thinly as possible. Gather them into loose stacks to transfer them easily into your prepared baking dish. Layer them at a diagonal in a fanned pattern without overlapping too much—this creates an eye-catching presentation!

Step 5: Pour Over the Cream Mixture

Once your potatoes are arranged beautifully in the dish, pour the infused cream mixture evenly over them. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil to lock in moisture while they bake.

Step 6: Bake Until Tender

Bake in your preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cream has thickened around the edges. If desired, broil for about 4 minutes until the top achieves that perfect golden brown finish.

And there you have it! These Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are ready to be served alongside your favorite dishes. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Creating the perfect Parmesan scalloped potatoes is all about those little details that elevate this dish from good to great. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your potatoes turn out creamy, flavorful, and beautifully golden.

• Use Waxy Potatoes: Choosing waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red-skinned potatoes ensures a creamy texture and helps the layers hold together better during baking.

• Infuse Your Cream: Heating your cream with herbs and seasoning not only enhances the flavor but also allows the seasonings to meld beautifully, resulting in a more aromatic dish.

• Layer Carefully: When stacking the potato slices, try to create a diagonal pattern without overlapping too much. This allows for even cooking and ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

• Don’t Rush the Baking: Covering the dish with aluminum foil during the first part of baking helps steam the potatoes, making them tender. Be patient—this step is key to getting that perfect texture!

• Broil for a Perfect Finish: A quick broil at the end adds a lovely golden crust on top. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning; just a few minutes can make all the difference!

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

When it comes to serving Parmesan scalloped potatoes, presentation matters! This dish not only tastes delicious but also looks stunning on your holiday table. Here are some ideas to make your serving experience even more delightful.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top right before serving for a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.

• Extra Parmesan: Grate some fresh parmesan cheese on top just before serving. It melts slightly and adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, these crispy Brussels sprouts add a nice crunch and balance out the creaminess of the scalloped potatoes.

• Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweetness from honey-roasted carrots complements the savory flavors of your potatoes beautifully, creating a harmonious plate.

• Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with toasted almonds offer a refreshing contrast in texture and flavor, making them an excellent partner for rich dishes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Parmesan scalloped potatoes will shine as one of the star dishes at your Thanksgiving table! Enjoy creating this comforting side that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hassle-free cooking during the busy holiday season. You can prepare it in advance and store it, making your Thanksgiving gathering smooth and enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Cool the scalloped potatoes completely before freezing.
• Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
• For frozen potatoes, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or bake directly from frozen, covering with foil until heated through and then broiling for a few minutes to crisp the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes.

Can I make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these scalloped potatoes a day in advance. Just assemble the dish without baking it, cover tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake as directed.

What can I substitute in Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using Pecorino Romano cheese instead of parmesan. For herbs, thyme or fresh sage works beautifully if you prefer not to use rosemary.

How do I ensure my Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes come out creamy?

To achieve that creamy texture, make sure you use heavy cream and infuse it with fresh herbs. The addition of parmesan cheese will also enhance the creaminess and flavor.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes! While Yukon Golds are recommended for their waxy texture, you can certainly use red-skinned potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Just slice them thinly as directed!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes recipe becomes a staple at your holiday gatherings! It’s such a comforting dish that brings everyone together around the table. Enjoy creating this delicious side that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Happy cooking!