Name: Creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 5 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary; 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort side dish, this Creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is going to be your new favorite. There’s just something about layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes, bathed in a luscious Parmesan cream, that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I love pulling this out for family dinners or holiday gatherings because it’s rich without being heavy, and everyone absolutely swoons over that crispy golden top.

What makes this recipe worth trying again and again is how simple ingredients come together to create such an elegant yet cozy dish. The heavy cream and butter melt into the potatoes perfectly while that freshly grated Parmesan adds a deep umami kick. And trust me — adding a touch of rosemary and garlic base takes it to another level of deliciousness. You’ll want to make this Creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe your go-to whenever you want a crowd-pleaser that feels special but isn’t complicated.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. Choosing quality potatoes and fresh Parmesan will make a real difference, so I always opt for Yukon Golds and grate the cheese myself.

Yukon Gold potatoes: Their creamy texture and natural buttery flavor make these perfect for scalloped potatoes. Plus, they hold their shape well when baked.
Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness precisely, and it adds richness to the sauce.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded and brings that authentic sharp cheesy flavor.
Heavy cream: This creates the silky, luscious sauce that makes scalloped potatoes irresistibly creamy.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning every layer, and it enhances all the other flavors.
Freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity to balance the creaminess.
Fresh rosemary sprigs: I love how rosemary adds an aromatic, pine-like fragrance that pairs beautifully with potatoes.
Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base: This little secret ingredient adds a hint of roasted garlic depth without overpowering the dish.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. I often tweak it depending on the season or what I have on hand, and you can absolutely do the same!

Herb variations: I sometimes swap rosemary for thyme or add a pinch of nutmeg to give the creamy sauce a warm, cozy twist.
Cheese combinations: Mixing Parmesan with Gruyère or sharp cheddar ups the cheesiness—perfect if you’re a cheese lover like me.
Dairy alternatives: For a lighter or lactose-free option, try substituting half the cream with whole milk, though it won’t be quite as rich.
Added texture: Crumbled cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms sprinkled between the layers turn this side into a real showstopper.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Potatoes and Flavor Base

Start by peeling and slicing your Yukon Gold potatoes very thin—about 1/8 inch thick is perfect. A mandoline makes this quick and ensures even slices, which is key to cooking them uniformly. Next, in a saucepan, melt your butter over medium heat, then whisk in the heavy cream, kosher salt, freshly cracked pepper, roasted garlic base, and rosemary sprigs. Warm the mixture gently; it should be hot but not boiling. This combo will infuse the cream sauce with deep flavor while softening the potatoes beautifully during baking.

Step 2: Layer and Assemble

Grab a buttered baking dish and start layering your potatoes neatly, slightly overlapping each slice. After a layer or two, sprinkle a generous handful of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to create gooey, cheesy pockets throughout. Then pour some of the warm cream mixture over the layers to coat everything evenly. Repeat these layers, finishing with a thick layer of Parmesan on top. The cheese on top is what browns into that irresistible golden crust you’re aiming for.

Step 3: Bake to Glory

Cover your dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake another 20-25 minutes so the top gets bubbly and nicely browned. Watch closely near the end—you want the cheese crust to be perfectly crisp but not burnt. Let it rest for about 10 minutes once it’s out of the oven; this helps the sauce thicken slightly so it isn’t too runny when you serve.

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a little chopped fresh parsley or extra rosemary leaves over the top right before serving. Not only does it add that pop of green color, but the fresh herbs brighten up the richness of the potatoes. A light drizzle of olive oil can also add a lovely sheen if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with simply roasted vegetables and a protein like roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. I often serve it alongside a crisp green salad to cut through the richness, and it’s been a hit next to garlic butter steak for special dinners.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday dinners, I’ve served individual portions in small ramekins, which is always a crowd-pleaser and looks so polished. You can also layer the potatoes in a pretty baking dish with a patterned edge, letting the golden top shine as the centerpiece of your table. It’s a comforting dish that feels upscale when plated with care.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes hold up wonderfully in the fridge. I store them in an airtight container and they stay creamy and delicious for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, a quick reheat is all it takes to bring them back to life.

Freezing

If you want to make this ahead in bulk, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed—adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Reheating

To reheat, I like to use the oven at 325°F (160°C) to warm it gently, which helps keep the sauce creamy and prevents drying out. Cover with foil for the first 15 minutes, then uncover to crisp up the top again. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works, but the texture won’t be quite as good.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Yukon Golds work best for their texture and flavor, you can use Russets or red potatoes. Just keep in mind Russets are fluffier and might become softer, so slice a little thicker and monitor baking time.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?

Peeling helps achieve a creamy, tender texture, but if you like a bit of rustic charm and extra nutrients, you can leave the skins on—just scrub them well before slicing.
Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer and use a vegan Parmesan alternative. The texture and flavor will change slightly but still tasty!
How do I know when the scalloped potatoes are done?

They’re ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can test by inserting a knife into the dish; it should slide in easily.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, which makes it perfect for busy days or entertaining.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s one of those dishes that brings people together effortlessly. I always find that making and sharing it sparks warm memories and smiles at the table. Seriously, give it a try—you’ll end up making it your go-to side for everything from weeknight dinners to festive celebrations. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family and I do!