There’s something utterly indulgent about the combination of garlic and parmesan that instantly elevates any dish, and my Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé is no exception. Picture this: golden layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes, lovingly enveloped in rich cream and bursting with the aromatic essence of roasted garlic. As I pull this beauty from the oven, the tantalizing scent fills my kitchen, promising a culinary experience that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
This show-stopping French side dish is not just for special occasions; it’s the perfect companion for anything from festive gatherings to weeknight meals when you’re craving something extraordinary. The contrast of its crispy, golden exterior with a velvety interior makes every bite a delightful journey for your taste buds. Plus, topped with a dollop of zesty crème fraîche, it transforms into a luxurious offering that will have your friends and family raving. If you’re ready to say goodbye to boring side dishes and elevate your home-cooked meals, join me in whipping up this Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé that’s sure to impress!
Why will you love this Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé?
Indulgent, Flavorsome Experience: Each bite delivers a savory explosion of garlic and parmesan that’s simply unforgettable.
Layered Perfection: The thinly sliced russet potatoes create a beautiful texture that’s crispy on the outside and creamy within.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for holiday feasts, casual dinners, or any gathering, it pairs beautifully with meats, or even as a stand-alone delight.
Easy Preparation: Simple steps make it accessible for home cooks while still impressing guests.
Gourmet Touch: Topped with zesty crème fraîche, it adds a gourmet flair, making your dish shine on any table.
This Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé is a game-changer—your family will be requesting it on repeat!
Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé Ingredients
For the Potato Layers
• Russet Potatoes – The ideal choice for achieving that perfect balance of texture and starchiness.
• Heavy Cream – Adds a luxurious richness; for a lighter touch, substitute with half-and-half.
• Unsalted Butter – Enhances the flavor; if you use salted butter, be sure to reduce extra salt.
• Kosher Salt – Key for seasoning every layer; feel free to use regular salt in smaller amounts.
• Black Pepper – Introduces depth and warmth; alternatively, white pepper offers a subtler flavor.
For the Aromatic Base
• Garlic Confit – Infuses the dish with sweetness and complexity; sautéed garlic can be used but adjust for strength.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Delivers a savory umami boost; for variation, Pecorino or Grana Padano works beautifully.
For Frying & Garnish
• Clarified Butter or Ghee – Ensures a crispy exterior; regular butter can burn, so be cautious.
• Crème Fraîche – Provides delightful tanginess for topping; you can replace it with sour cream if needed.
As you prepare to create this Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé, gather these ingredients and let your culinary adventure begin!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé
-
Prepare Potatoes: Start by peeling and thinly slicing russet potatoes using a mandolin. Soak the potato slices in heavy cream right after to maintain moisture and prevent browning.
-
Assemble Pavé: Line a loaf pan with parchment paper. Layer the potato slices, alternating with unsalted butter, garlic confit, kosher salt, black pepper, and grated parmesan cheese. Continue layering until all ingredients are used, ensuring a deliciously rich combination.
-
Bake: Cover the loaf pan tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 2 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Compress & Chill: After baking, remove from the oven and weigh down the pavé with a heavy object to compress it. Let it cool and refrigerate overnight to firm up the layers.
-
Cut and Fry: When ready to serve, carefully remove from the pan and cut into your desired shapes. Fry the pieces in clarified butter over medium heat until they are golden brown on all sides—this will enhance that irresistible crispy exterior!
Optional: Serve topped with a dollop of crème fraîche for an added touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé
- Use a Mandolin: Ensure even slices with a mandolin, as uniformity is key for consistent cooking and texture in your Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé.
- Don’t Skip the Refrigeration: Weighing down the pavé and refrigerating overnight allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and fry later.
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying; it ensures a better crispy texture without steaming the potato pavé.
- Monitor Butter Temperature: Clarified butter has a higher smoke point, preventing burning; regular butter may brown too quickly, affecting flavor.
- Make it Extra Flavorful: Experiment with adding fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, between the layers for an aromatic twist that complements the garlic and parmesan perfectly.
Storage Tips for Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé
Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
Freezer: You can freeze the pavé for up to 4 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: For best results, defrost the frozen pavé in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Serving Freshness: Enjoy the pavé freshly fried when possible; for leftover portions, consider pan-frying to restore that crispy exterior.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the potato layers and assemble the pavé up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial baking and pressing steps. Simply bake the pavé, compress it, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the layers to firm up nicely. When you’re ready to serve, cut the pavé into your desired shapes and fry them in clarified butter until golden brown. Keeping the pavé tightly wrapped in the refrigerator helps maintain its quality, ensuring it’s just as delicious when you’re ready to enjoy this luxurious dish. Embrace the convenience of make-ahead cooking and impress your family with this elegant side!
Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your dish with these delicious options that enhance flavors and textures.
-
Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère or cheddar for a unique twist of flavor while still maintaining that creamy texture.
-
Herb Infusion: Layer fresh thyme or rosemary between the potatoes for an aromatic experience that elevates the dish beautifully.
-
Cream Alternatives: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free option; you’ll get a hint of sweetness that pairs well with garlic.
-
Texture Variation: For added crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on the top before frying; it will give a delightful crispiness to the finish.
-
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a subtle kick of heat that complements the richness of the dish.
-
Vegetable Layers: Incorporate thinly sliced zucchini or carrots between the potato layers for extra nutrition and a splash of color.
-
Cashew Cream: For a vegan twist, substitute heavy cream with homemade cashew cream, adding a different yet delightful creaminess.
-
Bacon Addition: Mix in crispy bacon bits into the layers for a savory punch that enhances the garlic and Parmesan flavors.
Let these variations add your personal touch to the Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé, making it something truly special and uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé?
Creating the perfect meal is about balance, and these delightful pairings will elevate your dining experience to new heights.
-
Juicy Steak: Rich, tender steak provides a hearty contrast, complementing the creamy potatoes beautifully. The flavors meld seamlessly, making each bite a savory delight.
-
Herb-Roasted Chicken: Roast chicken infused with herbs adds a lovely freshness that balances the richness of the pavé, creating a comforting dish that everyone will adore.
-
Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans bring a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your plate, enhancing both flavor and texture alongside the creamy layers of the pavé.
-
Savory Mushroom Gravy: Pouring earthy mushroom gravy over your pavé introduces depth and umami, transforming it into a comforting meal perfect for gatherings.
-
Arugula Salad: A simple salad with peppery arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette brightens the meal, cutting through the richness of the garlic parmesan potato pavé while adding a refreshing bite.
-
Chardonnay: A glass of cool Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the rich flavors, offering a crisp note that complements the dish’s creamy characteristics.
-
Dark Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, serve a light and airy dark chocolate mousse. It provides a sweet finish that contrasts perfectly with the savory pavé, leaving everyone satisfied.
Indulge in these pairings, and watch as your Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé turns into the star of the meal!
Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé?
I recommend using Russet potatoes for their ideal starch content, which helps achieve that perfect balance of creamy interior and crispy exterior. However, you could substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes if you’re seeking a buttery flavor that pairs wonderfully with the garlic and parmesan.
How should I store leftover Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the pavé in a preheated 350°F oven for about 15 minutes. This helps to bring back some of that delightful crispiness while warming the creamy interior.
Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish for up to 4 months. To do so, first wrap the pavé tightly in plastic wrap to seal in moisture, then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, as this maintains the best texture.
What should I do if my Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé is too soggy?
If your pavé turns out soggy, it may need more compression before refrigerating. After baking, try weighing it down with a heavier object for a longer time. Additionally, ensure you follow the layering ratio and don’t add too much cream. Frying in batches instead of overcrowding the pan can also help achieve that perfectly crispy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, always check for allergies with guests. This dish contains dairy—specifically heavy cream and cheese—as well as gluten from potential cross-contamination in processed ingredients. If making for someone with dietary specifics, consider alternatives such as lactose-free cream and cheese, or even using a dairy-free butter for frying.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to the Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé?
Very! This dish is quite versatile. Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary between the potato layers for an aromatic twist. You could also experiment with different types of cheese—Gruyère or cheddar can provide a unique flavor profile, giving your pavé a personalized touch that you and your guests will love!
Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Potato Pavé Recipe with Crème Fraîche
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Potatoes: Start by peeling and thinly slicing russet potatoes using a mandolin. Soak the potato slices in heavy cream right after to maintain moisture and prevent browning.
- Assemble Pavé: Line a loaf pan with parchment paper. Layer the potato slices, alternating with unsalted butter, garlic confit, kosher salt, black pepper, and grated parmesan cheese. Continue layering until all ingredients are used.
- Bake: Cover the loaf pan tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 2 hours.
- Compress & Chill: After baking, remove from the oven and weigh down the pavé with a heavy object. Let it cool and refrigerate overnight.
- Cut and Fry: When ready to serve, carefully remove from the pan and cut into shapes. Fry in clarified butter over medium heat until golden brown.
- Serve topped with a dollop of crème fraîche.