Indulge in a culinary delight with our exquisite Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes recipe. This dish elevates the humble potato to a gourmet level, infusing it with the vibrant flavors of fresh basil and aromatic garlic. With layers of creamy goodness and a hint of sophistication, these scalloped potatoes are perfect for special occasions or as a comforting side dish any day of the week. Join us as we explore the steps to creating this irresistible masterpiece.
Ingredients:
For the Scalloped Potatoes:
- 1 lb Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 7 ounces Sincerely, Brigitte™ garlic basil cheese, grated
- 1 1/2 cups half and half
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare Potatoes: Peel the Russet potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning.
- Make Garlic Basil Infusion: In a saucepan, heat the half and half over medium heat until warm. Add the minced garlic, chopped basil, and bay leaf. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors. Remove from heat and discard the bay leaf.
- Layer Potatoes and Cheese: Drain the sliced potatoes and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Layer half of the potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle half of the grated garlic basil cheese over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese.
- Pour Infused Cream: Pour the warm garlic basil-infused half and half over the layered potatoes and cheese, ensuring it evenly coats the top layer.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the scalloped potatoes from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Cheese Substitution: If you can’t find Sincerely, Brigitte™ garlic basil cheese, you can substitute it with a combination of grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Add a teaspoon of dried basil and garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Add Protein: To turn this side dish into a complete meal, add cooked and diced chicken, ham, or bacon between the layers of potatoes and cheese.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add layers of thinly sliced tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.
- Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or chives to customize the flavor profile of the scalloped potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of potato? A: While Russet potatoes are traditionally used for scalloped potatoes due to their starchy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier texture and slightly different flavor.
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the scalloped potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftover scalloped potatoes? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover scalloped potatoes for future enjoyment. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Substitute the Russet potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative. Use heavy cream instead of half and half to reduce the carb content further. Choose a keto-friendly cheese blend without added sugars or fillers.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the amount of potatoes by half and increase the proportion of cheese and cream for a richer, lower-carb version of this dish. You can also omit the potatoes altogether and create a creamy cheese and herb bake with thinly sliced zucchini or cauliflower.
Elevate your dining experience with the irresistible flavors of our Garlic Basil Scalloped Potatoes. From the aromatic infusion of garlic and basil to the creamy layers of cheese and tender potatoes, this dish is a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds with every bite. Whether served as a side dish or a comforting main course, these scalloped potatoes are sure to become a staple on your menu. So gather your ingredients and prepare to savor the gourmet goodness of this delectable dish!
