Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my garlic basil scalloped potatoes! They’re seriously one of my all-time favorite side dishes. Imagine creamy, dreamy layers of thinly sliced potatoes, all enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce infused with the aromatic goodness of garlic and fresh basil. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! The combination of garlic and basil adds such a unique twist that really elevates the dish, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Trust me, once you try these scalloped potatoes, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering garlic basil scalloped potatoes. Make sure to gather everything before you start, so you can enjoy the cooking process without any interruptions!
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Feel free to play around with the cheese—you can use whatever you love! Cheddar, Gruyère, or even a mix can really bring out those flavors. Just remember, the fresher the ingredients, the better your dish will taste!
How to Prepare Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes
Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s get started! I promise, the steps are super simple and straightforward, and before you know it, you’ll have a bubbling dish of garlic basil scalloped potatoes that’ll make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, we need to get that oven warmed up! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Trust me, this is crucial for that perfect bake. You want your potatoes to cook evenly and come out nice and golden on top!
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Mixture
While your oven is heating up, grab a saucepan and pour in the 2 cups of heavy cream. Toss in the 4 cloves of minced garlic and warm it gently over medium heat. You don’t want it boiling—just warm enough to infuse that garlic goodness into the cream. Give it a stir and let those flavors mingle for a few minutes!
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes
Now, let’s build our masterpiece! In a greased baking dish, layer half of your thinly sliced potatoes. It’s okay if they overlap a bit, just make sure they’re evenly spread out. Sprinkle half of the chopped basil, along with a pinch of salt and pepper over the potatoes. This is where the magic begins!
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Pour half of that warm cream mixture over the layered potatoes, making sure to cover them well. Now, sprinkle half of your grated cheese on top. Oh, the cheese! Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, basil, cream, and cheese. You’re building layers of flavor that are going to be out of this world!
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Cover the dish with foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes. Once that’s done, carefully remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 15 minutes. You’re looking for that golden brown, bubbly top that’ll make you want to dive right in!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your garlic basil scalloped potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. This little pause helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve. But oh boy, the wait is going to be hard with that irresistible aroma filling your kitchen!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your garlic basil scalloped potatoes turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips that I swear by:
- Let It Sit: After baking, let the dish sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to firm up a bit, making it much easier to cut those beautiful portions without everything sliding around.
- Experiment with Cheese: Don’t feel restricted to just one type of cheese! Mixing cheeses like mozzarella for stretchiness and parmesan for a salty kick can elevate your dish. Try different combinations and see what you love best!
- Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs can work in a pinch, fresh basil really brings out that vibrant flavor. If you can, use fresh herbs to amp up the taste—it’s totally worth it!
- Watch the Bake Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your potatoes during the last few minutes of baking. You want that golden brown top, but be careful not to over-bake them!
- Add Some Crunch: For an extra texture element, consider topping your scalloped potatoes with a sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil before the final bake. It adds a delightful crunch!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a dish that not only tastes incredible but also looks stunning on the table. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the nutritional side of these delicious garlic basil scalloped potatoes! Here’s the estimated breakdown per serving, so you can enjoy this creamy treat while keeping track of what you’re indulging in:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, especially the type of cheese and the amount of cream. But overall, you’re treating yourself to a comforting and satisfying dish that’s worth every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! One of the best things about garlic basil scalloped potatoes is their versatility when it comes to cheese. While I love a good sharp cheddar for its flavor, you can mix it up with Gruyère for creaminess, mozzarella for that gooey stretch, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a salty kick. Feel free to experiment and find your perfect combination—it’s all about what you enjoy!
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which I doubt because they’re so delicious!), simply let the garlic basil scalloped potatoes cool completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. Just be cautious not to overcook them in the microwave, or they might dry out!
What are good side dishes to serve with this?
Oh, let me tell you, garlic basil scalloped potatoes are such a fantastic side dish that they can complement a variety of mains! I love serving them alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal. They also pair beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a lighter option. You could even enjoy them with some succulent baked fish. Whatever you choose, these potatoes will definitely elevate your meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me share why you’re going to adore these garlic basil scalloped potatoes! They’re not just delicious; they’re packed with flavor and so easy to whip up. Here’s what makes this dish a winner:
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this dish ready in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy potatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil creates an unforgettable flavor profile that elevates any meal.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by experimenting with different cheeses or adding in your favorite herbs, making it uniquely yours!
- Impressive Presentation: The layers of golden, bubbling potatoes are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a feast for the eyes, perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, taking the stress out of entertaining.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds! This dish has a way of bringing people together around the table.
With all these fantastic qualities, it’s no wonder garlic basil scalloped potatoes have become a staple in my home. You’re going to love them just as much as I do!
Print
Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes: 6 Irresistible Layers
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic basil scalloped potatoes are a creamy and flavorful side dish that combines the richness of potatoes with the aromatic taste of garlic and basil.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream with minced garlic until warm.
- Layer half of the potato slices in a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped basil, salt, and pepper over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes.
- Add half of the cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with remaining ingredients.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use different types of cheese.
- Let the dish sit for a bit before serving for better slicing.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: garlic basil scalloped potatoes
