When it comes to comfort food with a touch of elegance, Parmesan Potato Stacks in a Muffin Tin stand out as a delightful choice. This recipe transforms humble Yukon Gold potatoes into a visually stunning and mouthwatering side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant dinner party. Each bite delivers a crisp, golden exterior with a tender, flavorful interior, seasoned to perfection with garlic, onion, and paprika. The grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory note that enhances the overall taste and texture of these potato stacks.
I recall the first time I made these Parmesan Potato Stacks; it was during a holiday gathering with family. I had just discovered the recipe and was eager to impress my relatives with something new yet comforting. As the potato stacks emerged from the oven, their crispy edges and golden tops had everyone eagerly anticipating the first bite. The dish not only looked beautiful but also tasted incredible, and it quickly became a favorite at our family dinners. The best part was how easy it was to prepare, allowing me to spend more time enjoying the company of my loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
Parmesan Potato Casseroles
Ingredients:
4 tablespoons melted butter, plus more for greasing
5 pounds medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/8-inch rounds
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, divided
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground white pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your oven reaches the optimal temperature for baking the potato stacks evenly and achieving a golden, crispy texture.
Prepare the Muffin Tin: Grease 12 muffin cups generously with some of the melted butter. This will help prevent the potato stacks from sticking and make it easier to remove them once baked. Using a pastry brush or a paper towel, ensure the butter covers the sides and bottom of each muffin cup thoroughly.
Prepare the Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the peeled and sliced potato rounds with the remaining melted butter. Toss the potatoes well to ensure they are evenly coated with the butter. This step is crucial for flavor and helps the seasonings adhere to the potato slices.
Season the Potatoes: Add 2 tablespoons of the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and ground white pepper to the bowl with the potatoes. Toss again until all the potato slices are well-coated with the seasonings. The garlic powder and onion powder provide a savory depth of flavor, while the paprika adds a subtle smokiness.
Assemble the Potato Stacks: Neatly stack the seasoned potato slices into the prepared muffin cups, forming stacks that are about 1½ inches tall. The key is to arrange the slices in a compact, vertical stack to ensure they cook evenly and develop a crispy texture on the outside while remaining tender inside.
Bake the Potato Stacks: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the potato slices. Keep an eye on the stacks, and remove them from the oven when the edges and tops are golden brown and crispy, and the centers are tender when tested with a fork.
Cool and Garnish: Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the potato stacks sit for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the stacks to settle and makes them easier to remove from the muffin cups. After they’ve had a chance to cool slightly, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top. The Parmesan cheese will melt slightly and form a deliciously cheesy crust, while the fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Variations and Substitutions
Onion and Bacon: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a layer of thinly sliced onions or a sprinkle of crumbled bacon between the potato layers. These additions will complement the savory Parmesan and provide a delicious contrast to the tender potatoes.
Sweet Potatoes: If you’re looking for a different twist, substitute sweet potatoes for the Yukon Gold potatoes. Sweet potatoes offer a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color, making them an exciting alternative.
Make-Ahead Option: These potato stacks can be prepped in advance. Assemble the stacks, cover them with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes them a great option for meal planning or for entertaining, as you can prepare them ahead of time and pop them in the oven just before serving.
Summary
Parmesan Potato Stacks in a Muffin Tin offer the perfect blend of elegance and comfort. They are visually appealing, easy to prepare, and versatile enough to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply enjoying a family meal, these potato stacks are sure to impress with their crispy edges, tender centers, and savory Parmesan flavor. The ability to customize and prep them in advance adds to their appeal, making them a practical and delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and the joy of sharing this delightful dish with family and friends!
