Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Published: November 3, 2025

by kaeli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward instructions, anyone can make this delicious dish.
Flavor-Packed: The infusion of herbs and parmesan cheese elevates the taste, making it irresistible.
Versatile for Occasions: Suitable for holidays, family dinners, or potlucks, this dish fits various events.
Beautiful Presentation: The layered potato stacks create an appealing look that enhances your table setting.
Customizable Ingredients: Easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

To make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes, having the right tools is essential. They ensure that you achieve perfect slices and an even bake. Here are some key tools needed for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mandoline slicer
Baking dish
Medium saucepan
Aluminum foil
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Mandoline slicer: This tool allows you to slice potatoes uniformly and thinly, ensuring even cooking.
Baking dish: A good quality baking dish helps in achieving a beautiful presentation while holding all the ingredients securely.
Medium saucepan: Ideal for heating the cream mixture without burning it, allowing flavors to meld perfectly.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

Yukon Gold potatoes
Heavy cream
Unsalted butter
Fresh rosemary
Salt
Black pepper
Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base

For the Cheese Mixture

Grated parmesan 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 degrees. This ensures that your scalloped potatoes cook evenly throughout.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter. Sprinkle approximately 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese over the bottom to create a cheesy layer.

Step 3: Infuse the Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream, remaining butter, fresh herbs, salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base. Heat until the butter is melted and just starts to smoke lightly—this should take about 5 minutes. Stir in all but 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Slice the Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer, thinly slice each potato to about ⅛” thick. Gather these slices into a loose stack and transfer them diagonally into your prepared baking dish. Continue layering until you use up all potato slices; aim for a fanned pattern without too much overlap.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the infused cream mixture evenly over the potatoes. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

Step 6: Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, uncover the dish and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cream mixture has thickened around the edges. If desired, broil for about 4 minutes until the top turns golden brown.

With these steps completed, your Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes will be ready to serve! Enjoy this creamy delight as part of your Thanksgiving feast or any special occasion meal.

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Parmesan scalloped potatoes are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving them at Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner, these creamy potatoes pair well with various main courses and add a touch of elegance to your table.

Pair with Roasted Meats

Roast Chicken: The savory flavors of roast chicken complement the creamy richness of the scalloped potatoes.
Beef Tenderloin: A succulent beef tenderloin provides a hearty contrast to the delicate potatoes.

Add Fresh Salads

Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and tangy dressing balances the creaminess of the dish.
Mixed Green Salad: A light vinaigrette salad adds freshness and cuts through the richness.

Include Seasonal Vegetables

Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans provide a crunchy texture that pairs well with soft potatoes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized flavor of roasted sprouts enhances the overall taste experience.

Garnish for Presentation

Chopped Parsley: Fresh herbs add color and a burst of flavor on top of your scalloped potatoes.
Chives: Thinly sliced chives offer a mild onion flavor, elevating the dish’s presentation.

How to Perfect Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

To achieve the best results with your parmesan scalloped potatoes, keep these tips in mind. They will help you create a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Use Waxy Potatoes: Waxy varieties like Yukon Gold hold their shape during baking and create a creamy texture.
Infuse Flavor Carefully: Take time to infuse your cream with herbs; this step enhances the overall taste significantly.
Layer Evenly: When shingling the potato slices, ensure they overlap slightly for even cooking and presentation.
Don’t Rush Baking: Allow ample time for baking to ensure that the potatoes are tender and the sauce thickens properly.
Broil for Finish: Broiling at the end creates a crispy, golden top that adds texture to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Parmesan scalloped potatoes can be complemented by various side dishes, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Garlic Bread: This classic accompaniment offers crunch and flavor, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the potatoes.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots bring a pop of color and sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory scalloped potatoes.
Creamed Spinach: Rich and creamy spinach provides additional depth while adding another layer of creaminess to your meal.
Macaroni and Cheese: For cheese lovers, serving macaroni alongside scalloped potatoes creates a comforting cheese overload!
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus gives a fresh and vibrant contrast to creamy dishes like parmesan scalloped potatoes.
Corn Pudding: This sweet and savory side offers a delightful texture contrast while highlighting seasonal ingredients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan scalloped potatoes, it’s easy to overlook key steps that can affect the final dish.

Using the wrong potato type: Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold are best for this recipe. Avoid starchy potatoes which can become mushy.
Skipping the herb infusion: Infusing the cream with herbs enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step; let it simmer gently.
Overcrowding the baking dish: Layering too many potatoes can lead to uneven cooking. Keep stacks loose and fanned out for best results.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is vital in cooking. Use a scale or measuring cups for cheese and cream for consistent flavor.
Ignoring cooking times: Follow the baking time closely. Underbaking will leave potatoes firm, while overbaking can dry them out.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Best used within 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power until warm, usually around 5-7 minutes.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until heated, adding a splash of cream if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Parmesan scalloped potatoes creamy?

For extra creaminess, ensure you use heavy cream and don’t skip infusing it with herbs and cheese.

Can I prepare Parmesan scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate before baking.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano cheese is a great alternative if you want a different flavor profile without sacrificing the cheesy goodness.

Are Parmesan scalloped potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as no flour is added. Always check your other ingredients to confirm.

How do I know when my scalloped potatoes are done?

The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork and the cream should be thickened around the edges after baking.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan scalloped potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile enough to complement various meals. With options for customization like herbs and cheeses, you can easily adapt this dish to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering, and watch it become a favorite!

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