Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes
Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes are a creamy, cheesy comfort food featuring tender potato slices baked in a rich Parmesan sauce until golden and bubbling. This easy-to-make side dish uses simple pantry ingredients and delivers warmth and indulgence, perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or anytime you want a cozy yet impressive potato dish.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if flour substituted; otherwise contains gluten)
Potatoes
- 2 to 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8 inch thick
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
- 2 1/2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for low-fat)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Herbs and Garnishes
- Fresh thyme or parsley (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
- Prepare the potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice them evenly about 1/8 inch thick to ensure uniform cooking and layering in the baking dish.
- Make the creamy Parmesan sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once the sauce thickens, stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and glossy.
- Layer the potatoes and sauce: Lightly butter a baking dish. Arrange a single layer of potato slices, then pour a portion of the cheese sauce evenly over them. Repeat layering potatoes and sauce until all are used, finishing with sauce on top.
- Bake to golden perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Rest before serving: Let the dish cool for 10-15 minutes so the sauce thickens and the layers set, allowing for perfect slices and enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Use a mandoline for uniform potato slices to ensure even cooking.
- Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for best melting and flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper at layers to fully develop flavor.
- Heavy cream yields a richer sauce than milk alternatives.
- Letting the dish rest before slicing helps maintain layer integrity.
- For gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free blend.
- To make low-fat, use half-and-half and reduce butter.
- Peeling potatoes is recommended for smoother texture but can be skipped for a rustic feel.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Parmesan scalloped potatoes, creamy potato bake, cheesy potatoes, comfort food side dish, holiday side dish