Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food that many of us crave during the colder months. But what do you pair with this cheesy dish for a complete meal? Here are ten delicious options that will complement the creamy texture and savory flavor of your scalloped potatoes.
Savory Meat Options
Regarding savory meat options, there are a variety of dishes that pair perfectly with scalloped potatoes. From sweet and savory to hearty and comforting, there’s something for every taste preference.
Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze
A deliciously sweet and savory option, baked ham with brown sugar glaze is a perfect pairing with scalloped potatoes. The sweetness of the glaze enhances the creaminess of the potatoes, while the saltiness of the ham balances out the rich flavors. Plus, leftovers make for great sandwiches the next day!
To make the brown sugar glaze, mix together brown sugar, honey, mustard, and cloves in a small bowl. Brush the glaze over the ham before baking for a crispy and flavorful crust. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an added pop of flavor.
Herb-Roasted Chicken
For those who prefer chicken instead of ham, herb-roasted chicken is an excellent choice. The subtle flavors of rosemary and thyme complement the creaminess of the potatoes without overpowering them. Plus, roasted chicken is a classic staple in many households.
To make herb-roasted chicken, season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic, and your favorite herbs. Roast in the oven until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender and juicy. Serve alongside your scalloped potatoes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket
For a some heartier meal, slow-cooked beef brisket is the perfect complement to scalloped potatoes. The juicy and tender meat pairs well with the creamy potatoes, and the slow-cooking method enhances the flavors even further. This meal is sure to satisfy any craving for comfort food.
To make slow-cooked beef brisket, season the brisket with salt, pepper, garlic, and your favorite spices. Place in a slow cooker with beef broth, onions, and carrots. Cook on low for 8-10 hours until the meat is tender and falls apart easily. Serve alongside your scalloped potatoes for a delicious and filling meal.
Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze
For autumnal twist on pork, try serving pork tenderloin with apple cider glaze alongside your scalloped potatoes. The flavors of the pork and apples are a winning combination, and the sweet and tangy glaze enhances the potatoes’ creaminess. Plus, this dish is impressive enough for guests.
To make the apple cider glaze, mix together apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and becomes syrupy. Brush the glaze over the pork tenderloin before baking for a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor. Serve alongside your scalloped potatoes for a meal that’s sure to impress.
Hearty Vegetarian Pairings
Are you looking for some delicious vegetarian meal ideas? Look no further! Here are some hearty vegetarian pairings that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a great option for a meatless meal that’s still filling and satisfying. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also incredibly versatile. You can stuff your peppers with your favorite grains or proteins, like quinoa or tofu, and pair them with your scalloped potatoes for a delicious and healthy meal. Plus, the colors of the bell peppers add a beautiful touch to your plate.
For an extra burst of flavor, try mixing in some diced tomatoes, onions, and garlic to your stuffing mixture. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top of your stuffed peppers before baking them in the oven.
Eggplant Parmesan
But if you’re in the mood for Italian, eggplant parmesan is a classic vegetarian dish that pairs well with scalloped potatoes. The crispy breaded eggplant, smothered in tomato sauce and melted cheese, is an irresistible flavor combination. You can make it extra cheesy to complement the potatoes’ creamy texture, and the combination of tomato sauce and eggplant is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
For a healthier twist, try baking your eggplant instead of frying it. You can also add some spinach or mushrooms to your tomato sauce for an extra boost of nutrition.
Mushroom Stroganoff
A vegetarian take on a classic beef stroganoff, mushroom stroganoff is a creamy and flavorful option that’s perfect for chilly evenings. The umami flavors of the mushrooms pair well with the potatoes, and the sour cream in the stroganoff adds tanginess and creaminess. You can also add some peas or carrots to your stroganoff for some extra color and nutrition.
For a vegan version of this dish, try using coconut cream instead of sour cream. You can also substitute the mushrooms for tofu or seitan for a protein-packed meal.
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Lentil and Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie
For a filling and hearty meal, lentil and vegetable shepherd’s pie is a perfect pairing with scalloped potatoes. The lentils give the dish protein and texture, while the vegetables add a colorful and nutritious touch. Plus, the mashed potato topping adds another layer of creaminess.
And for an extra burst of flavor, try adding some herbs like rosemary or thyme to your lentil and vegetable mixture. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top of your mashed potatoes before baking your shepherd’s pie in the oven.
With these delicious vegetarian pairings, you won’t even miss the meat! Enjoy your meal and feel good about nourishing your body with wholesome, plant-based ingredients.
Fresh and Flavorful Salads
For hearty meal, a fresh and flavorful salad is always a great complement. Not only does it add a pop of color to your plate, but it also provides a nutritious boost to your meal. Here are some delicious salad options that pair perfectly with rich and creamy scalloped potatoes:
Spinach and Strawberry Salad
A spinach and strawberry salad is a light and refreshing option that is perfect for a summer meal. The sweetness of the strawberries pairs well with the creaminess of the potatoes, while the spinach adds a nutritious boost. To make this salad, simply toss together some fresh spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette. You can also add some sliced almonds or crumbled feta cheese for added texture and flavor.
Classic Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad is always a crowd-pleaser. The tangy dressing and crisp romaine lettuce add a nice contrast to the creaminess of the potatoes, and the parmesan cheese ties it all together. To make this salad, simply toss together some chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and a generous amount of Caesar dressing. You can also add some grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein and calories.
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
If you’re looking for a more unique salad option, consider a roasted beet and goat cheese salad. The earthy flavors of the beets are complemented by the tangy and creamy goat cheese, and the mix of greens adds a variety of textures and flavors to your plate. To make this salad, simply roast some sliced beets in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil and some salt and pepper. Then, toss together some mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette. You can also add some walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
No matter which salad you choose, it’s sure to be a delicious and nutritious addition to your meal.
Tasty Side Dishes
When it comes to side dishes, the options are endless. However, some dishes stand out more than others. Here are some tasty side dishes that will take your meal to the next level:
Garlic Green Beans
Garlic green beans are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Green beans are a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K, while garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties. This quick and easy side dish pairs well with any main course, including scalloped potatoes. The garlic adds depth of flavor, while the green beans offer nutrition and a crunchy texture. Plus, this side dish is ready in minutes!
Honey-Glazed Carrots
Carrots are a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked. For a sweet and colorful side dish, honey-glazed carrots are a great option. The sweetness of the honey enhances the creaminess of the potatoes, while the carrots add a nice crunch. Plus, this is a healthy side dish that you can feel good about serving to your family. Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for good vision, a healthy immune system, and cell growth.
Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that never goes out of style. This dish pairs well with many main courses, including scalloped potatoes. The creamy and savory flavors complement each other perfectly, and the spinach adds a touch of nutrition to your plate. Spinach is a superfood that is loaded with vitamins and minerals. It’s a great source of iron, calcium, and vitamin K.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, which includes broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. These vegetables are known for their cancer-fighting properties and their ability to boost the immune system. Roasted Brussels sprouts are a tasty and nutritious side dish that pair well with scalloped potatoes. The caramelized flavors of the roasted sprouts add a nice contrast to the creaminess of the potatoes, and the nutrition factor is an added bonus.
So, the next time you’re looking for a side dish to serve with your main course, consider one of these tasty options. Your taste buds and your body will thank you!
Conclusion
There are countless options to pair with scalloped potatoes, but these ten options are sure to satisfy any palate. From savory meats to vegetarian options to fresh salads and flavorful side dishes, you can’t go wrong with any of these pairings. So the next time you’re in the mood for comfort food, try one of these combinations and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
