Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate comfort food side dish, look no further than this easy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes recipe. Creamy and cheesy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes made simple! Perfectly tender layers baked to golden perfection in just minutes, this dish combines buttery potatoes with the rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese. Whether for a family dinner or special occasion, these scalloped potatoes will steal the show every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless comfort food: This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luscious, satisfying dish without any fuss.
• Quick bake time: Unlike traditional scalloped potatoes, this version comes together faster for weeknight dinners.
• Layered flavor: Each bite is a perfect mix of tender potatoes and cheesy, creamy goodness.
• Versatile dish: Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of mains from grilled chicken to holiday roasts.
• Impress everyone: With its golden crust and rich texture, this recipe elevates simple ingredients into something special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays an essential role in achieving that creamy, cheesy, golden outcome. Fresh potatoes offer the backbone of the dish, while Parmesan cheese provides a sharp and savory punch, with just the right balance of cream and seasoning for texture and taste.

• Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes: Choose firm potatoes that slice evenly and hold their shape during baking.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated for the best nutty flavor and melt quality.
• Heavy cream: This adds a rich and velvety texture to the layers.
• Butter: Adds depth of flavor and helps create that irresistible golden crust.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a subtle aromatic kick to the creamy sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors in the dish.
• Fresh herbs (optional): Thyme or rosemary can add fresh, fragrant notes.

Variations for Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Feel free to tweak this Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you want to add more flavor or make it lighter, the base recipe is wonderfully adaptable and forgiving.

• Cheese blend: Swap or add Gruyère, mozzarella, or cheddar for a different cheesy profile.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with basil, oregano, or chives to freshen the classic flavor.
• Dairy-free version: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese substitutes for a vegan-friendly option.
• Low-carb twist: Replace potatoes with thinly sliced cauliflower for a lighter casserole.
• Add protein: Layer in cooked bacon bits or shredded chicken between potato layers for an all-in-one meal.

How to Make Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by peeling the potatoes and slicing them into uniform, thin rounds—about 1/8 inch thick, ideally—with a mandoline or sharp knife. Even slices ensure consistent cooking and perfect layering.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook gently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, stirring constantly to avoid clumps.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes

Grease a baking dish and arrange a layer of potato slices evenly on the bottom. Pour a generous amount of the Parmesan cream sauce over the layer, then repeat layering potatoes and sauce until all ingredients are used, finishing with a sauce layer topped with some extra Parmesan for a golden crust.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to allow the top to turn golden and bubbly. Test doneness by piercing a potato slice—it should be tender throughout.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Let the Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes sit for 5-10 minutes after baking to set the layers and make slicing easier. This resting time also helps intensify the creamy flavors.

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

• Choose the right potato: Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold work best for creamy texture and neat slices.
• Slice evenly: Use a mandoline for uniform slices to ensure even baking and presentation.
• Fresh Parmesan matters: Grating your own cheese yields better melt and flavor than pre-grated varieties.
• Don’t skip resting: Allowing the dish to cool slightly helps it set perfectly and makes serving cleaner.
• Foil tenting: Covering during most baking time prevents over-browning while locking in moisture.

How to Serve Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes

Garnishes

Top with fresh chopped parsley, chives, or thyme just before serving to add a burst of bright color and a hint of freshness against the rich potatoes.

Side Dishes

Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork, as well as grilled vegetables or fresh green salads to balance out the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in ramekins for individual servings at elegant dinners, or bake in a cast-iron skillet for rustic charm. For gatherings, arrange this dish alongside other casseroles to create a cozy comfort food spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve creamy texture.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving when possible to maintain the crispy top.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes?

Absolutely! While Parmesan provides a signature flavor, adding cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella can create a richer and more complex taste.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother dish, but leaving the skins on adds texture and nutrients if you prefer a rustic touch.

What is the best way to slice the potatoes?

Using a mandoline slicer is the easiest and most consistent method to achieve thin, even slices that bake uniformly.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream and using vegan cheese alternatives, you can enjoy a dairy-free Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes version.

How long does it take to bake?

Baking takes about 60 minutes total, with 45 minutes covered and 15 minutes uncovered for that perfect golden crust.

Final Thoughts

Delicious, creamy, and packed with cheesy goodness, this Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes recipe is an absolute winner for any meal. Once you try it, you’ll find it hard to go back to plain potatoes again. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this cozy, flavorful dish as much as I do!

Related Posts

• Honey Roasted Carrots with Garlic Butter
• Crispy Skin Turkey (Crockpot)
• Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Print