Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of a classic Italian dish that will have your taste buds dancing with delight! Our Potato and Parmesan Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. With layers of tender potatoes enveloped in rich cream and topped with a golden crust of Parmesan, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a savory experience that will keep you coming back for more. Ready to impress your guests and elevate your dinner table? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to deliver mouthwatering results every time!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash and peel the potatoes. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the potatoes into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/8 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and consistent texture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended, creating a flavorful cream mixture.
- Layer the potato slices in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping each slice. After each layer, sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the cream mixture evenly over the layered potatoes, ensuring all potato slices are covered. The cream will help the potatoes cook and become tender.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, creating a sealed environment that will help the potatoes steam and cook thoroughly.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. This initial covered baking allows the potatoes to become soft.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes. This will help the top become golden brown and crispy, creating a beautiful color and texture.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes. This allows the cream to set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. The parsley adds a fresh, bright color and subtle herbaceous flavor to the dish.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffy texture or Yukon Golds for a creamier consistency. Both will work wonderfully in this casserole!
- Uniform Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly uniform potato slices. This ensures even cooking and helps the layers meld beautifully together.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper in the cream mixture. Proper seasoning at each layer enhances the overall flavor of the casserole.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This step is crucial as it helps the cream set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
- Customize Your Cheese: While Parmesan is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for added flavor and creaminess.
- Add a Crunch: For an extra layer of texture, consider topping the casserole with breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter before the final baking stage for a delightful crispy finish.
- Herb It Up: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in addition to parsley for a more aromatic and flavorful dish.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 475kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 97mg
