Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. This dish combines earthy potatoes with a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and fresh basil. The unique flavors of Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes make them an ideal side dish for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Rich Flavor: The combination of half and half, garlic, and basil creates a creamy, savory dish that bursts with flavor.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this recipe in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, these scalloped potatoes are always a hit.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pair them with meats, veggies, or salads for a balanced meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dish in advance and bake it just before serving for hassle-free entertaining.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick baking pan
- Medium pot
- Slotted spoon
- Mandolin slicer (optional)
- Oven mitts
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick baking pan: Ensures easy removal of scalloped potatoes without sticking.
- Medium pot: Perfect for heating the cream mixture evenly.
- Mandolin slicer (optional): Helps achieve perfectly thin potato slices for even cooking.
Ingredients
To create these delicious Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes, you will need:
- 1½ cups half and half
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed with the back of a knife
- 1 bay leaf
- 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
- 7 ounces Sincerely, Brigitte™ garlic basil cheese, grated
How to Make Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes
Step 1: Heat the Cream Mixture
In a medium pot over medium heat:
1. Combine the half and half, garlic, and bay leaf.
2. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Lower the heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bay leaf and garlic cloves.
Step 2: Prepare Baking Dish
- Spray an 8×8-inch baking pan with nonstick spray.
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
Step 3: Layer Ingredients
- Pour about ¼ cup of the cream mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Place a layer of sliced potatoes (slightly overlapping).
- Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of chopped basil over the potatoes.
- Add about 2 tablespoons of grated cheese, followed by salt and pepper.
- Repeat this layering process—cream, potatoes, basil, cheese, salt, and pepper—at least two more times until all potatoes are used.
- Save at least a couple tablespoons of cheese for broiling later.
Step 4: Bake Potatoes
- Place the baking dish in the oven.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the potatoes are fully cooked through and the top is golden brown.
Step 5: Broil Cheese Topping
- Remove from oven and sprinkle remaining cheese over the top.
- Broil under high heat for another 5 minutes until cheese is bubbly and brown.
Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately with additional fresh basil sprinkled on top for an extra touch! Enjoy your Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes as a delightful side to any meal!
How to Serve Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes
Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful dish that can be served in many ways. Their creamy, cheesy goodness pairs well with various sides and main courses, making them versatile for any meal occasion.
With Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the potatoes.
- Caesar Salad: The crunch of romaine and salty cheese complements the creamy texture.
Alongside Grilled Meats
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken adds protein and pairs beautifully with the flavors.
- Steak: A perfectly cooked steak enhances the hearty aspect of scalloped potatoes.
As a Standalone Dish
- With Garlic Bread: For a comforting meal, serve these potatoes with garlic bread for extra flavor.
- Topped with Extra Basil: Elevate your dish by adding more fresh basil just before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Perfect Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes
To achieve the best results with your Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes, follow these tips for perfecting this rich dish.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy russet potatoes for a creamy texture.
- Slice Thinly: Ensure potato slices are uniformly thin for even cooking and layering.
- Simmer the Cream: Infuse flavor by simmering garlic and bay leaf in half and half before layering.
- Layer Properly: Alternate layers of cream, potatoes, basil, and cheese to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Broil at the End: Broil for a few minutes to achieve a bubbly, golden top that adds texture.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes
Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes shine as a main attraction but pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender bring freshness and color to your plate.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a crisp contrast to the creamy potatoes.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of scalloped potatoes.
- Creamed Spinach: This classic side offers a rich, leafy green option that pairs well with creamy dishes.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds brightness and is fun to eat alongside scalloped potatoes.
- Baked Beans: Savory baked beans introduce a sweet element that complements the garlic and basil flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Using thick potato slices: Cutting the potatoes too thick can lead to uneven cooking. Use a mandolin slicer for even, thin slices.
- Skipping the herbs: Forgetting to add fresh basil or using dried herbs will reduce the flavor. Always use fresh basil for the best taste.
- Not seasoning properly: Failing to add enough salt and pepper can make the dish bland. Season each layer generously to enhance flavors.
- Overcrowding the baking dish: Packing too many potato layers can prevent even cooking. Ensure there is enough space between layers for the cream to circulate.
- Neglecting the broil step: Skipping the final broil means missing out on that golden, bubbly cheese topping. Always broil at the end for a perfect finish.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Freezing Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes
- Place cooked scalloped potatoes in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-4 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes special?
Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes stand out due to their creamy texture and aromatic basil flavor, making them a delightful side dish.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for varied flavors in your Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes.
How do I know when my scalloped potatoes are done?
The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork and have a golden brown top after baking and broiling.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor in your Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes are not only rich and creamy but also versatile enough to complement any meal. This recipe invites you to explore various customization options while keeping it simple and flavorful. Try adding your favorite ingredients or tweaking spices to make it your own!
Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes are a creamy, indulgent side dish that elevates any meal with their rich flavors and comforting texture. Infused with aromatic garlic and fresh basil, this delightful dish combines tender russet potatoes layered with a savory half-and-half cream sauce and topped with melty cheese. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or a cozy dinner at home, these scalloped potatoes are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to pair with a variety of main courses. Impress your guests or treat yourself with this delicious recipe that promises to be a hit at any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups half and half
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 pound russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 7 ounces Sincerely, Brigitte garlic basil cheese, grated
Instructions
- In a medium pot over medium heat, combine half and half, garlic, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes; remove bay leaf and garlic.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray an 8×8-inch baking pan with nonstick spray.
- Layer the bottom of the baking dish with ¼ cup of the cream mixture. Add potato slices overlapping slightly, followed by basil, cheese, salt, and pepper. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and broil for an additional 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Serve hot with extra fresh basil for garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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