Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes

Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. This dish features layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes, rich half and half, and aromatic basil, all brought together with the distinctive flavor of garlic basil cheese. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, these scalloped potatoes offer a creamy texture and an irresistible taste that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, basil, and creamy cheese creates a savory experience that elevates ordinary potatoes.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal cooking techniques, this dish is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: These scalloped potatoes pair well with meats, veggies, or can even stand alone as a hearty vegetarian option.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dish in advance and bake it just before serving for a stress-free meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or holiday gathering, Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes will impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the essential tools to make your cooking process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Medium pot
• Slotted spoon
• Mandolin slicer (optional)
• Nonstick spray

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8-inch baking pan: The perfect size for evenly cooking your scalloped potatoes while providing enough depth for layers.
• Medium pot: Ideal for heating the half and half and infusing flavors from garlic and bay leaf.
• Slotted spoon: Useful for removing garlic cloves and bay leaves without losing any liquid from your cream base.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes:

For the Cream Base

• 1½ cups half and half
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed with the back of a knife
• 1 bay leaf

For the Potato Layers

• 1 pound russet potatoes, peeled and sliced very thin (use a mandolin slicer if you’ve got one)
• 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil, chopped
• salt and pepper

For Topping

• 7 ounces Sincerely, Brigitte™ garlic basil cheese, grated

How to Make Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Infuse the Cream Base

1. Over medium heat, heat the half and half, garlic, and bay leaf in a medium pot.
2. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Lower the heat to low, letting it simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bay leaf and garlic cloves.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Spray an 8×8-inch baking pan with nonstick spray.
2. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.

Step 3: Layering Ingredients

1. Pour about ¼ cup of the cream into the bottom of the dish.
2. Place a layer of potato slices (slightly overlapping).
3. Add about 2 tablespoons of chopped basil on top of the potatoes.
4. Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of grated cheese over the basil.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Repeat this layering process—cream, potatoes, basil, cheese, salt, and pepper—at least two more times until all potatoes are used up.
7. Reserve at least a couple tablespoons of cheese for broiling later.

Step 4: Baking

1. Place the baking dish into the oven.
2. Bake for 35-40 minutes until potatoes are cooked through and top is golden brown.

Step 5: Broiling

1. After baking, add remaining cheese on top.
2. Put under the broiler for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is bubbly and browned.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve immediately with more fresh basil sprinkled over the top.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes!

How to Serve Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes

Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your meal. Their creamy texture and rich flavor make them a versatile side that pairs well with many main courses.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken complements the creamy potatoes, adding a protein balance to your plate.

As a Side for Steak

• The richness of scalloped potatoes perfectly balances the hearty flavors of a well-cooked steak.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Pairing with colorful roasted vegetables adds freshness and texture, creating a vibrant meal.

With a Fresh Salad

• A light salad offers a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the potatoes, making for a balanced dish.

On a Cozy Family Dinner Table

• Serve these potatoes as part of a comforting family meal, enjoyed alongside loved ones for any occasion.

Paired with Fish

• The mild flavors of fish, like salmon or tilapia, provide an excellent pairing that won’t overpower the dish.

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How to Perfect Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes

To ensure your Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes are perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and basil will enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried versions.
• Slice potatoes evenly: Thin and uniform slices allow for even cooking and a consistent texture throughout.
• Layer carefully: Take your time layering the ingredients; this helps all flavors meld beautifully during baking.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your dish to prevent overcooking or burning; adjust baking time based on your oven’s performance.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. This helps set the layers and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different types of cheese alongside garlic basil cheese for added flavor depth.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes

Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds crunch and freshness, enhancing the overall meal experience.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   The caramelization from roasting brings out the natural sweetness in Brussels sprouts, balancing out rich potatoes.
3. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing that contrasts nicely with creamy scalloped potatoes.
4. Honey Glazed Carrots
   Sweet honey-glazed carrots provide a delightful burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic basil notes.
5. Garlic Bread
   Enjoy buttery garlic bread as it complements the flavors of both the potatoes and any savory meat dishes served alongside.
6. Creamy Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of scalloped potatoes for well-rounded bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome of your dish.

• Overcooking the potatoes: Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly. This helps them cook uniformly and prevents some from becoming mushy while others are undercooked.
• Skipping the bay leaf: The bay leaf adds depth to the flavor. Don’t skip it! Simmer it in the cream mixture for the best taste.
• Not layering properly: Improper layering can lead to uneven distribution of flavors. Follow the layering instructions carefully for even coverage of cream, basil, and cheese.
• Ignoring the broiler step: Broiling is crucial for achieving a bubbly, golden top. Don’t skip this step; it enhances both texture and presentation.
• Using low-quality cheese: The quality of cheese affects the overall flavor. Choose a good garlic basil cheese for a richer taste in your Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Consider freezing before baking for optimal texture when reheated.

Reheating Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Reheat in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until hot. Use a microwave-safe dish.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes that might help you while preparing this dish.

Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, but the flavor profile will change.

How do I know when my Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes are done?

The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the top should be golden brown after broiling.

Can I make Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to a day in advance and bake them right before serving.

What should I serve with Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes?

These scalloped potatoes pair well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables as a delicious side dish.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes offer a rich and creamy side that’s perfect for any occasion. They are versatile and can be customized with different herbs or cheeses to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress your family and friends!