A creamy side dish like Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes is a must-have for any holiday gathering. This recipe elevates the classic dish with fresh herbs and a generous amount of parmesan cheese, resulting in layers of flavor and texture that are sure to impress. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion, these scalloped potatoes are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them an attractive addition to your table.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal hands-on time, you can whip up this dish without stress.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cream, herbs, and parmesan creates a delectable taste that enhances the potatoes perfectly.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the recipe with different herbs or cheeses based on your preference.
- Impressive Presentation: The layered arrangement of potatoes looks beautiful when served, making it a showstopper for your dinner table.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish caters to many palates, ensuring everyone will enjoy it regardless of their usual preferences.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking process smooth and efficient, gather the necessary tools beforehand. Using the right equipment can significantly enhance your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mandoline slicer
- Baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mandoline slicer: Ensures uniform potato slices, which cook evenly and create a beautiful layered effect.
- Baking dish: A good-quality dish provides even heat distribution for thorough cooking.
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for heating your cream mixture without scorching it.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring all flavors meld together.
Ingredients
For the Cream Mixture
- Heavy cream
- Unsalted 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 as a substitute)
- 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 375Β°F (190Β°C). This allows for even baking once your dish is ready to go in.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese on the bottom to create a delightful crust.
Step 3: Infuse the Cream Mixture
In a medium saucepan over low heat:
1. Combine heavy cream, butter, thyme/sage, salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base.
2. Stir until the butter melts and you see wisps of steamβabout 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and mix in all but 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Slice the Potatoes
Using a mandoline slicer:
1. Thinly slice each potato to about β
inch thick.
2. Gather slices into loose stacks.
3. Transfer them diagonally into the prepared baking dish in a fanned pattern without overlapping too much.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Pour the infused cream mixture over the arranged potatoes evenly. Cover tightly with greased aluminum foil.
Step 6: Bake
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Afterward:
1. Uncover and bake for another 20 minutes until potatoes are tender and cream has thickened at edges.
2. If desired, broil for about 4 minutes until golden brown on top.
This Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes recipe is not just about feeding guests; itβs about creating an unforgettable meal that brings warmth and joy to your table! Enjoy!
How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes
Parmesan scalloped potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal, especially during festive occasions. Their creamy texture and rich flavor pair well with various dishes, making them versatile and appealing.
Pair with Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts bring a sweet crunch that complements the creamy potatoes beautifully.
Serve Alongside Grilled Chicken
- Juicy grilled chicken adds a protein-packed option that balances the richness of the parmesan scalloped potatoes.
Accompany with a Fresh Salad
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
Enjoy with Garlic Bread
- Flavorful garlic bread enhances the mealβs taste while offering an excellent way to scoop up any leftover creamy sauce.
Add a Side of Steamed Green Beans
- Bright green beans add color and a slight crunch, making for a well-rounded plate.
How to Perfect Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes
To achieve the best results with your parmesan scalloped potatoes, follow these helpful tips for optimal flavor and texture.
- Use Waxy Potatoes: Varieties like Yukon Gold or red-skinned potatoes hold their shape well during baking, ensuring tender slices without becoming mushy.
- Slice Evenly: Utilizing a mandoline slicer helps achieve uniform thickness, allowing for even cooking and creamy consistency throughout.
- Infuse Flavors: Heating the cream with herbs enhances the overall taste. Donβt skip this step for maximum flavor impact!
- Layer Neatly: Stacking the potato slices in a fanned pattern not only looks beautiful but also ensures even coverage of the cream mixture.
- Cover Tightly: Using greased aluminum foil during baking traps steam, which aids in cooking the potatoes evenly and helps thicken the sauce.
Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes
Parmesan scalloped potatoes can shine alongside several side dishes that enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add a fresh, vibrant touch that pairs wonderfully with rich flavors.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots provide an enjoyable contrast to the savory scalloped potatoes.
- Creamed Spinach: This dish offers creaminess akin to scalloped potatoes but with added nutrients from spinach.
- Baked Zucchini Fries: Crispy baked zucchini fries are a fun twist that adds crunch and flavor diversity.
- Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower presents a hearty yet lighter option that complements rich sides.
- Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn brings sweetness and bright color to your plate, enhancing visual appeal and taste balance.
- Caprese Salad: The combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil creates freshness that contrasts nicely with the creamy potatoes.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can provide additional filling options while showcasing colorful vegetables alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes will help you create the best Parmesan scalloped potatoes possible. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is a success:
- Not using enough cheese: Parmesan cheese is key for flavor. Make sure to use the full amount specified in the recipe for that creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Skipping the herb infusion: Infusing the cream with herbs gives depth to your dish. Donβt rush this step; itβs essential for enhancing the flavors.
- Overlapping potato slices: For even cooking and texture, arrange your potato slices without too much overlap. This allows the cream to seep between them properly.
- Underestimating baking time: Cooking times can vary based on your oven and potato thickness. Always check for tenderness before removing from the oven.
- Not covering while baking: Covering your dish with foil initially helps steam the potatoes, making them tender. Donβt skip this step!
- Failing to broil at the end: A golden-brown top adds visual appeal and a bit of crunch. Broiling for a few minutes can elevate your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Use within 3-5 days for best quality.
Freezing Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Parmesan scalloped potatoes.
Can I use different types of cheese in Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?
Yes! You can substitute Pecorino Romano cheese if you want a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining creaminess.
How do I make vegan Parmesan scalloped potatoes?
For a vegan version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and choose a plant-based cheese alternative.
What is the best type of potato for Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their waxy texture, which holds up well during baking. However, red-skinned potatoes work too!
Can I add vegetables to my Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate thinly sliced zucchini or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
How long does it take to prepare Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with total cooking time around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Parmesan scalloped potatoes are not only a comforting side dish but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding different herbs or cheeses based on your preferences. This recipe is perfect for gatherings like Thanksgiving or any family dinnerβencouraging everyone to enjoy this delightful dish together!

Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes, a delightful side dish that is perfect for any festive gathering. This recipe takes the classic scalloped potatoes to the next level with layers of Yukon Gold potatoes, infused with rich cream and fresh herbs, creating a stunning presentation that will impress your guests. The combination of parmesan cheese adds a savory depth that perfectly complements the tender potatoes. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, this dish makes it an ideal choice for Thanksgiving or any special occasion. Elevate your dinner table with these decadent scalloped potatoes that are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Yukon Gold potatoes
- Heavy cream
- Unsalted butter
- Grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh thyme or sage
- Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, herbs, salt, pepper, and garlic base over low heat until warmed. Remove from heat and mix in all but 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese.
- Thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline slicer and arrange them in the baking dish.
- Pour the cream mixture over the potatoes and cover with greased aluminum foil.
- Bake for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Broil for 4 minutes if desired for a golden top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red-skinned for best texture. Customize your herb selection based on personal preference. Consider adding thinly sliced zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.